Cardiac Emergency Plans Added at Project Lift Sites
Staff at three Florida locations have received CPR training and new defibrillators to improve response times.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Heart Disease
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The American Heart Association has launched Cardiac Emergency Response Plans at three Project Lift facilities in Florida. These sites in Belle Glade, Hobe Sound, and Fort Pierce are now equipped with automatic external defibrillators and staff trained in life-saving CPR.
Why it matters
Survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest significantly improve when bystanders provide immediate CPR and use defibrillators before paramedics arrive. This initiative creates a bridge for emergency care in these Florida communities.
The initiative addresses the 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurring annually in the U.S. By formalizing a coordinated emergency response, these sites aim to decrease the time until intervention.
The players
American Heart Association
A national nonprofit organization that funds cardiovascular research and provides public education on heart health and emergency response.
Project Lift
A community-focused organization operating youth and family development sites across Florida.
TBC Corporation
A tire and automotive service company that provided the financial support for this heart-safety initiative.
The details
The program establishes a clear chain of command for staff to follow when a cardiac emergency occurs on-site. By providing automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) and specific training, the strategy ensures staff can deliver shocks or chest compressions while waiting for emergency medical services. TBC Corporation provided the financial support necessary to secure the equipment and training.
Timeline
October 5, 2026: The American Heart Association announced the new safety plans.
Health Landscape
This effort aligns with the American Heart Association's Cardiac Emergency Response Plan guidelines for public and private facilities. It reflects a growing trend of placing life-saving equipment in community hubs to reduce reliance on proximity to hospital systems.
Residents in Belle Glade, Hobe Sound, and Fort Pierce may feel more confident knowing these sites are now prepared for cardiac emergencies. Discuss the importance of bystander CPR training with your doctor if you want to know how you can prepare to help in similar community crises.
The takeaway
Immediate action by bystanders is the most critical factor in surviving a cardiac arrest until professionals arrive. You can prepare yourself by locating the nearest AED in your workplace and enrolling in a certified CPR training course through a local health provider.
Further reading
Learn more about local programs and prevention by visiting the Heart Disease section.
More information
Find additional training resources and safety information on the American Heart Association CPR information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by American Heart Association.
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Would you be willing to undergo formal CPR training to prepare for a cardiac emergency?
