Huntsville Police enhance emergency response with new AEDs

Published on November 12, 2025

Select Huntsville Police officers are now carrying new life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), providing a life-saving tool to respond to cardiac and other medical emergencies before paramedics arrive.

The AEDs were purchased using funds from the City of Huntsville’s opioid settlement, which was approved by the Huntsville City Council earlier this year.

“Our officers are often first on scene when someone’s life is on the line,” said Chief Kirk Giles. “Having AEDs in the field means they can take immediate action and give that person a real chance at survival.”

The initiative is part of HPD’s broader commitment to enhancing officer readiness and expanding emergency medical capabilities across all patrol divisions. By equipping Field Training Officers with AEDs, HPD ensures these critical devices are in the hands of officers who are frequently in the field mentoring recruits and responding to emergencies citywide.

HPD worked closely with Huntsville Emergency Medical Services, Inc. (HEMSI) to ensure proper training and coordination for the deployment of the new AEDs.