Theatre NorthWest unveils new safety equipment

PRINCE GEORGE — Theatre NorthWest has taken a step towards improving overall safety at the theatre by adding an automated external defibrillator (AED) to its first aid station.

An AED is used to help someone experiencing cardiac arrest and it improves their chances for survival.

“We realized last season that our venue should have an AED, largely as a result of one of our plays: The Shoplifters by Morris Paynch. The play includes a scene where a character experiences cardiac arrest and requires defibrillation to survive,” says Accessibility Coordinator Heidi Klepsch.

“After seeing the show, many patrons and staff commented that we should probably acquire an AED, especially since the majority of our patrons are older and, therefore, at a higher risk of cardiac arrest.”