Elevating Community Safety: Toronto Star Reflections on High-Rise Cardiac Arrest and AEDFO’s Leadership

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A recent Toronto Star article highlights a critical truth about urban living: the higher one resides in a high-rise, the lower the likelihood of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest. The issue is not medical complexity but response time. In tall buildings, even small delays — waiting for elevators, navigating security systems, reaching upper floors — can significantly impact survival.

This reinforces the urgent need for accessible Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in residential towers and widespread public understanding of how to use them in the moments before paramedics arrive.

The AED Foundation of Ontario (AEDFO) has been a leading advocate for this change. Founder Roberta Scott’s contribution to the article brings both expertise and humanity to the discussion. She emphasizes that cardiac arrest is swift and unforgiving — and that empowering neighbours with immediate access to AEDs can profoundly reshape outcomes. Her perspective reflects AEDFO’s mission to expand AED availability, enhance public awareness, and ensure every community is prepared when seconds truly matter.

This conversation is also gaining important support at the municipal level. Councillor Shelley Carroll, who is championing the mandate for AED accessibility in high-rise buildings, has been a strong voice for advancing safety and preparedness across the city. Her leadership signals a meaningful shift toward policies that prioritize resident well-being and lifesaving infrastructure.

As Toronto continues to grow vertically, so must our approach to emergency readiness. High-rise living should not come with increased risk — and with accessible AEDs, informed communities, and committed advocacy, it doesn’t have to.

AEDFO’s leadership, strengthened by Roberta Scott’s dedication and Councillor Carroll’s support, offers a hopeful path forward: one where preparedness, policy, and community action come together to protect lives across Ontario’s skylines.