PulsePoint App Returns to Toledo, Enhancing Emergency Response

Toledo, Ohio – In a critical moment, every second counts, and a newly revived service is helping to save precious time in emergencies. PulsePoint, an app that provides live updates of emergency calls, has been reintroduced to Toledo after being offline since August. The initiative aims to give bystanders the ability to assist in emergencies until first responders arrive, potentially saving lives.

Toledo Firefighters Local 92, recognizing the importance of the service, paid the $10,500 fee to bring PulsePoint back online. Union leaders emphasized the app’s value, particularly for cardiac arrest situations where immediate action is vital.

“When it comes to cardiac arrest, seconds matter with people’s lives,” said Joseph Cira, president of Toledo Firefighters Local 92 Union. “The faster people can intervene, the better the outcome.”

The app offers the community a window into emergency incidents, including medical issues, fires, and traffic accidents. It also provides valuable information on the locations of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and a map feature to help users pinpoint the exact location of incidents. Union leaders believe that not only does PulsePoint serve as a helpful tool for citizens, but it also aids first responders by providing real-time updates on emergency calls.

“It was kind of eye-opening seeing how much interest there was in it on the public side. I didn’t really realize it,” said Dan Evans, secretary-treasurer of Toledo Firefighters Local 92 Union. “People on Facebook have expressed how often they use it to stay informed about emergency situations.”

Originally, PulsePoint covered emergency calls across the entire county, but now it is limited to incidents within Toledo. Despite this reduction in coverage, Evans explained that the app remains a valuable tool for both the public and responders.

“Our members can look up calls, listen to the radio, and get alerts about new incidents in real-time,” Evans said. “It helps us stay prepared and informed about what’s happening.”

Union leaders are working with Toledo City Council to help secure funding for the app’s continuation, along with other community partners to support educational efforts such as CPR classes. These efforts aim to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools to assist in emergencies, further enhancing the effectiveness of PulsePoint.

“The idea is to get trained people who can provide care before first responders arrive,” said Cira. “Even just starting chest compressions can make a huge difference.”

Currently, the union is covering the cost of PulsePoint for one year, after which they will assess whether to continue funding the service. The hope is that by then, the city and other partners will step in to help sustain the initiative long-term.

With the PulsePoint app back in operation, Toledo is one step closer to creating a more informed and prepared community, where everyone can play a part in saving lives.