The Washington Township Police Department is stepping up its emergency response capabilities, thanks to a new partnership with Indian Lake EMS.
The two agencies recently worked together to equip police cruisers with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) — a move that could make a life-saving difference during cardiac emergencies.
The collaboration came about when Chief Michael Thompson reached out to the Indian Lake EMS to discuss the need for AEDs in police vehicles.
Given that officers often arrive on the scene before EMS—especially in more remote areas like Washington Township and the Village of Lakeview—the addition of this equipment will allow them to take immediate action during critical incidents.
The Indian Lake EMS Association responded to the request without hesitation, helping facilitate the purchase of the devices, which run around $500 each.
Chief Thompson said, “Every second counts. While we have, in my opinion, one of the best emergency medical services around, sometimes our officers are able to arrive on scene to medical emergencies before a rescue squad. This piece of equipment is critical to the Washington Township Police Department’s mission to provide the best possible services to the residents we serve. ”
The partnership is especially meaningful, as two members of the Indian Lake EMS Joint Ambulance District also serve on the Washington Township Police force.
