In early 2025, the free PulsePoint app was launched on Kauaʻi, which North Shore Ocean Safety Officer, lifeguard Chris Pico said serves multiple purposes and can save lives.
“It alerts nearby users to cardiac emergencies, and provides real-time updates about incidents such as traffic accidents, brush fires, bridge closures, and high surf conditions,” said Pico.
As spring and summer bring an uptick in visitors and outdoor activities, Kauaʻi Fire Chief Michael Gibson is urging residents and tourists to download the app to stay informed and potentially save lives or get help more quickly.
“The app connects trained community members with nearby cardiac emergencies, allowing them to assist before first responders arrive,” Gibson told Kauaʻi Now on Tuesday.
“By connecting trained citizens to cardiac emergencies in their community, PulsePoint Respond empowers the community to provide immediate assistance while professional responders are on their way.”
Gibson added that he has seen success with the app and an uptick in downloads. He encourages everyone to download it to their phones.
The push for people to use the app is part of a broader effort to strengthen community response and improve public safety across Kaua‘i.
“PulsePoint has proven to be an important tool for the Garden Island community,” Pico said. “Whether you’re willing to step in and help during an emergency or just want to know whatʻs happening around the island, it’s a great tool.”
Pico said the app includes CPR instructions and helps locate nearby automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, while connecting trained responders and volunteers to emergencies more quickly.
“Off-duty medical personnel have responded to alerts in some cases, offering critical assistance or comfort to families before first responders arrive,” he said.
On the island, with many rural and tough-to-get-to areas, emergency response times average 7 to 20 minutes. However, PulsePoint users typically receive alerts or responses within 3 to 4 minutes.
Notifications are only sent after a 911 call has been placed, ensuring coordination with emergency services. Gibson said the increased seasonal crowds make awareness tools like PulsePoint especially important.
“Encouraging the public to stay alert and sign up for county updates on weather, ocean conditions, and closures is important to us,” he said.
Pico added: “Even if you are a first responder on vacation, we encourage you to check it out. This is not only for our family but also for our visitors, so it’s kind of like you have a pulse on the community in real time.”
According to PulsePoint, more than 350,000 people experience sudden cardiac arrest each year in the United States. Officials say bystander CPR and early use of an AED can significantly increase survival chances.
Residents and visitors can click here to learn more. The app is available for download on both Apple and Android devices.
For more information, contact the Kaua‘i Fire Department at 808-241-4980 or email: kfd@kauai.gov.
