West Palm Beach Named a HEARTSafe Community
Published on February 03, 2026
February 3, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Kathleen Joy
Director of Communications
City of West Palm Beach – Mayor’s Office
kjoy@wpb.org
(561) 822-1411 (TTY: 800-955-8771)
West Palm Beach Named a HEARTSafe Community
Third City in Florida to Earn Designation
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – The City of West Palm Beach has been officially designated a HEARTSafe Community, becoming only the third government entity in the State of Florida to receive this national recognition for its commitment to cardiac emergency preparedness and life-saving response.
The designation, awarded by Citizen CPR Foundation, recognizes communities that have demonstrated excellence in preparing residents, first responders, and public spaces to respond effectively to sudden cardiac arrest — one of the leading causes of death nationwide.
“Being named a HEARTSafe Community reflects our belief that public safety is about preparation, people, and partnerships,” said Mayor Keith A. James. “This designation affirms the work our first responders, City staff, and community partners do every day to ensure that when seconds matter, help is ready and lives can be saved.”
To earn the HEARTSafe designation, communities must meet rigorous criteria focused on prevention, preparedness, and response, including widespread CPR and AED training, strong emergency response systems, and public access to life-saving equipment.
West Palm Beach’s designation builds on the City’s ongoing investments in emergency response, public safety infrastructure, and community education. The City’s Fire Department responded to over 30,000 calls last year and plays a central role in training residents, businesses, and organizations in CPR and AED use.
“Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere — at home, at work, or in public spaces,” said City of West Palm Beach Fire Chief Diana Matty. “This recognition underscores our commitment to ensuring our community is prepared to act quickly, confidently, and effectively when it matters most.”
The HEARTSafe Community designation places West Palm Beach among a small group of communities nationwide that have demonstrated leadership in cardiac emergency preparedness and reinforces the City’s broader commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of its residents.
Visit the Citizen CPR Foundation’s website for more information about the HEARTSafe Community initiative.
###
About The City of West Palm Beach
The City of West Palm Beach is a vibrant and dynamic city on Florida's Atlantic coast. With a rich history, thriving arts and cultural scene, and a commitment to sustainability, the City of West Palm Beach is a great place to live, work, and play. As one of the three largest cities making up the South Florida region and the central city of Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach is a vibrant, growing waterfront city that seamlessly blends the business advantages available in the area with a more refined and relaxed environment for living and working, making it an exceptional destination for both residents and professionals alike. To learn more about the City of West Palm Beach, visit our official website or follow us on our social media: Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), and LinkedIn.
To contact the City of West Palm Beach, please dial (561) 822-1200 (TTY 800 955-8771). For information about the City of West Palm Beach, please visit: https://www.wpb.org/home