Learn to Save a Life: CPR & AED Community Safety Seminar Drew Overwhelming Response

Helping Save Lives: AED Registration Motions Passed at City and Regional Council

【Red Maple Journal/Helen Yang】  On May 23, 2026, Richmond Hill Regional and Local Councillor Joe DiPaola (Chair, Budget Committee of the Whole; Chair, York Region Planning and Economic Development; Chair, Official Plan Update Committee; Vice Chair, Affordable Housing Strategy Implementation Committee) hosted a CPR & AED Community Safety Seminar at the Richmond Hill Elgin West Community Centre to provide public education on life-saving CPR and Basic AED use. The seminar drew an overwhelming response and reached full capacity with nearly 200 attendees.

This event also supported ongoing community initiatives aimed at improving access to emergency response equipment across Ontario. Once AEDs are fully registered with the provincial system, 9-1-1 operators will be able to direct residents to the nearest device during emergencies, helping to save valuable time when every second counts.

Richmond Hill Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola has introduced motions at both the City of Richmond Hill and York Region Council to ensure all AEDs are registered with the provincial system. Now, when an emergency happens, 9-1-1 can guide residents to the nearest AED, helping to save lives.

The City of Richmond Hill passed the motion on November 12, 2025.

York Region Council passed the motion unanimously on March 26, 2026.

These steps strengthen community safety and ensure residents have faster access to life‑saving equipment when it matters most.

Richmond Hill Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola thanks York Region Paramedic Services for the practical demonstrations and hands-on training during the seminar, as well as the attendees, volunteers, community partners, and vendors for contributing to the success of the seminar and strengthening community health and safety.

Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola encourages residents to stay tuned for updates on community services and welcomes volunteers to join the support to his upcoming events. He will be hosting a free community BBQ at Richmond Green Park, 1300 Elgin Mills Road East, Richmond Hill, on June 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Richmond Hill residents are invited to register for a complimentary burger, while supplies last, and to enjoy the community gathering and event programming.

Contact: Tel: 905-771-2498 | Email: joe.dipaola@richmondhill.ca | Website: https://joedipaola.ca