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AED Information

Automated External Defibrillators

With every minute a victim does not receive defibrillation following sudden cardiac arrest, the chances of survival decreases by 10 percent. Installing an automated external defibrillator (AED) in your home or organization is a wise investment and responsible choice for the health and safety of your family, employees, customers and visitors.

AED's are designed to deliver a shock only when they have detected a life-threatening irregular heartbeat. AED's are simple to use and have voice prompts that talk the user through the three steps.

Please call Bill Husted at (508) 595-3717 or email hustedbill@usa.redcross.org for AED pricing and training information.

Common Questions About AED'S

What does AED stand for?
AED stands for automated external defibrillator. An AED is a machine that can restart a heart that has stopped beating effectively. It is about the size of a laptop computer. It automatically analyzes a heart's rhythm and delivers an electric shock to the heart if the heart has an abnormal heart rhythm.

Are AEDs hard to use?
No. AEDs are easy to use and have audio prompts that guide the user operating the device.

How do AEDs strengthen the "Cardiac Chain of Survival?"
Early defibrillation by an AED is one of the four links in the "Cardiac Chain of Survival" for victims of sudden cardiac arrest. The first step is early activation of the Emergency Medical Services by calling 911 or your local emergency number; step two is to provide early CPR to the victim; step three is to provide early defibrillation (with and AED); and the fourth is early advanced life support, which includes care by paramedics and transport to the hospital.

Why is the use of AEDs important?
AEDs are important because they can restart a normal heart rhythm to a heart that has stopped beating effectively. For every minute defibrillation is delayed, a victim's chance of survival drops about 10%.

How much training is required to use an AED?
The new Red Cross Adult CPR/AED training course can be completed in 4.5 hours or AED training is approximately one additional hour when added to any existing Adult CPR training.

How much does an AED cost?
The price of an AED varies by make and mode. Please call Bill Husted at (508) 595-3717 or email hustedbill@usa.redcross.org for information on purchasing and training.

Every three minutes someone dies of cardiac arrest

Only an electric shock can start a heart

Every minute lost decreases the chance of survival by 10%


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