Macon-Bibb County employees are now better prepared to respond in a cardiac emergency thanks to a recent Lunch and Learn hosted by the Macon-Bibb County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) in partnership with Stryker.

As part of a countywide safety initiative, Macon-Bibb County has purchased and installed 46 Automated External Defibrillators (AED) across 34 County department facilities. To ensure employees feel confident and ready to use them, representatives from all 34 departments gathered for hands-on training focused on how the devices work and what to do if an emergency occurs.

“Emergency management and protecting our community can be both big and small,” said EMA Director Spencer Hawkins. “I was very excited Macon-Bibb County was able to provide AEDs to many of the buildings where we have county employees and the public coming and visiting us. This lunch and learn training gave our staff the ability to put hands on mock AED devices so that when the moment arises, they are ready to help.”

During the session, Stryker representatives walked participants through real-life scenarios and allowed them to practice using training models. Employees learned that AEDs are designed to be user-friendly, with devices that begin announcing step-by-step instructions as soon as they are opened. The units also feature a child mode setting, ensuring they can be safely used on smaller bodies when needed.

Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere and at any time. Having AEDs readily available throughout County facilities, paired with practical training for employees, strengthens workplace safety and emergency preparedness.

By equipping staff with both the tools and the knowledge to act quickly, Macon-Bibb County continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of employees and the public they serve.