Ability to locate AEDs adds new tool to 911 emergency response

Published on May 28, 2026

New technology is allowing Weld County 911 dispatchers to help callers locate automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public places. The technology, known as 911-initiated AED response, launched earlier this year and is an accompanying piece to PulsePoint Respond — the smartphone app that debuted in Weld County in 2025, alerting CPR-trained individuals of those in public places experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.

“Getting help quickly is the number one priority in an emergency, and it’s important our 911 professionals have the resources available to provide that,” said Scott James, Weld County Commissioner Chair. “AED location technology adds to the tools our dispatchers have to help provide emergency response and generate more positive outcomes for those needing 911assistance.”

With 911-initiated AED response technology, the help dispatchers provide to callers in an emergency is strengthened, as they can provide instructions on where an AED device is located in public places. Allison Theunissen, E-911 Program Manager of the Weld County Department of Public Safety Communications, said such instruction can be critical to callers as well as someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.

“Early CPR and AED deployment can significantly improve survival outcomes, but understandably during emergency situations, individuals often experience panic, confusion, and task fixation, which can impair their ability to locate an AED,” Theunissen said. “This technology can help provide clarity to relieve some of that and increase the chances of someone receiving help.”

When someone calls 911 in a public place, dispatchers can locate AED information — including the address of nearby buildings where one is and the caller’s approximate distance from an AED, and other specific instructions, provided there is one listed in the given search area. AED locations are registered in the PulsePoint-hosted National Emergency AED Registry, which has more than 212,000 registered nationwide. People can also add the location of AEDs to the registry using PulsePoint AED, a smartphone app in the Apple App and Google Play stores.

“From Text-to-911 in 2017, to the recent remodel of the WCRCC, to this technology, we want to provide the best 911 service possible,” said Jason Maxey, Weld County Commissioner Pro Tem and Coordinator of Public Safety Communications. “All of this, combined with the experience of our public safety communications personnel, can enhance emergency response to those who need it most.”