Cambridge Expands Access to Lifesaving AEDs at Parks and Athletic Fields Citywide
10/21/2026
The City of Cambridge has expanded access to lifesaving emergency equipment by installing more than 40 outdoor AEDs (Automatic External Defibrillators) in parks and open spaces across the community.
The new AEDs have been installed in nearly every City of Cambridge athletic field, including locations where soccer, football, baseball, softball, basketball, tennis, and golf are played. Some locations have more than one AED available. In addition to an AED, each cabinet will also contain a Stop-the-Bleed kit. These kits provide basic emergency supplies that can help control severe bleeding until emergency responders arrive.
“The installation of these new AEDs and Stop-the-Bleed kits significantly expands access to lifesaving emergency equipment throughout our parks and athletic facilities,” said Captain Jeremy Walsh of the Cambridge Fire Department. “The timing is especially meaningful as we recognize National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month this October. Every minute matters during a cardiac emergency, and immediate access to an AED can dramatically improve survival outcomes. By placing this equipment where people gather to exercise, compete, and recreate, Cambridge is making a proactive investment in public safety and helping ensure that residents and visitors have access to critical lifesaving resources when and where they are needed most.”
Each AED is located in a highly visible locked yellow cabinet, which is temperature-controlled for year-round availability. In an emergency, anyone can access an AED by calling 911 and receiving a code to unlock the cabinet. AEDs are small, easy to use, and provide both visual and verbal instructions. They also include a Spanish language button and use REALconnect technology for remote monitoring and software upgrades.
This new initiative expands public access to lifesaving equipment. With the addition of the 42 new AEDs, there are now more than 90 AEDs already located inside City buildings throughout Cambridge. Four remaining AEDs will soon be installed at Clement Morgan Park, the Community Tennis Courts at 441 Broadway, the Fresh Pond Path behind the Water Department, and a third location at Danehy Park.
To view more information, including instructional videos on how to use an AED, CPR basics, and an AED and Narcan map, please visit https://www.cambridgema.gov/cpr.