Every Minute Counts! – SPIR STAR Provides Publicly Accessible AED
In the event of sudden cardiac arrest, every minute counts. To enable rapid assistance and increase the chances of survival for those affected, SPIR STAR AG has been providing a publicly accessible automated external defibrillator (AED) since September 2026.
The device is located on the premises of SPIR STAR AG at Auf der Rut 5, 64668 Rimbach-Mitlechtern, Building G5B2.
The safety and health of its employees are a high priority for SPIR STAR AG. The company has had an AED in place since 2016. Due to the growing number of employees, the decision was made at the beginning of 2026 to purchase an additional device. At the same time, the idea arose to make the new AED available not only for internal use, but also to the general public.
The AED is publicly accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Its location can be found via the OpenAEDMap, among other platforms. In an emergency, fire and rescue service dispatch centres can also provide information about nearby AED locations.
The device is housed in a heated protective enclosure. Opening the enclosure triggers an alarm. SPIR STAR AG covers the ongoing operating costs. For the next five years, the AED will also be protected against theft, vandalism and tampering.
The device can be operated by members of the public, even without medical training. Clear voice instructions guide users step by step through the application. This enables both trained first responders and bystanders to take immediate action in an emergency.
Mayor Holger Schmitt welcomes the initiative: “Making the location known locally is very important to ensure that the AED can be used effectively. I would also like to thank SPIR STAR AG on behalf of the municipality for taking up an initiative from its employees and contributing to safety in our community.”
He also acknowledged the company’s wide-ranging commitment to the local community and encouraged residents not to hesitate in an emergency: “Every minute counts in the event of cardiac arrest.”
SPIR STAR employees will also receive training on how to use the AED. Appropriate training provided by the Björn Steiger Foundation has already been planned.