Where Are AEDs? – How to Find AED Locations
You have completed your first aid training and now know how to perform CPR and use an AED. Congratulations! You have taken a big step towards improving public safety and have increased the safety of those around you. The question becomes, when an emergency does occur, do you know where the nearest AED locations are? You have to know where AEDs are located if you’re going to jump into action to save a life – and the one in your trunk may be too far away!
#FindAnAED / #AEDFound
Daily there are millions of people on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, ready to engage and respond. That is why First Edition decided to create the public awareness campaign, called #FindAnAED! The goal of this wonderful movement is to create further AED awareness by encouraging people to share photos of AEDs they have found around the world! All you have to do is:
- Snap a photo of the AED (with you in it if possible!)
- Share on social media platforms using the hashtag #AEDFound (make sure the post is public)
- Tag @firsteiditonaed (Facebook and/or Twitter)
- ‘Check in’ to the location you found the AED!
This not only shows people where they can find AED’s, but also reminds people to keep an eye out for AED locations near them. The more we share and the more we look out for AEDs near us, the higher our AED awareness will be!
BONUS: If it is a Philips AED we will share it on our page as well! Sharing is Caring.
Ask Those Nearby
Heading to a music festival? Off to the gym? Enjoying a delicious meal at your favourite restaurant? One way to find out where AEDs are located is to ask! Speak with the person in charge, the customer service desk, building managers, or even your boss, and get them to show you where the closest defibrillator can be found! When you take the time to learn where the nearest AED unit is, you will have the ability to quickly retrieve it in an emergency!
PulsePoint App
Every minute that passes without the attention of an AED reduces the chances of survival by 7-10%. That is why PulsePoint created their AED and CPR awareness app! This app works to alert people nearby of an emergency and notify them that their help is needed. The app works by using a notification system linked to the local emergency lines, and alerts nearby first aid and CPR certified individuals to come and assist. As well, the app notifies those near AEDs to bring the device to the emergency location! Check out the video and see how PulsePoint can assist:
Through this system, cardiac arrest patients can receive the attention and assistance they need to survive until further medical help arrives.
Why do we love PulsePoint? Because ANYBODY can contribute to the app and do their part in making their cities safer. Every time you come across an AED, share it on social media and register each of the AED locations on the PulsePoint app. All you need to do is drop a pin on the app, upload a picture of the AED location, and write a short description of where to find it. Download the app today and be prepared to save a life!
Note: The PulsePoint app is not yet available in all locations and is only offered “where the app has been adopted by the local public safety agency.” In order to get PulsePoint accessible in your area, speak to your city or neighbourhood representatives to work towards implementing this system near your home! Until then – upload your own AED locations!
Look for AED Signs
As you go about your day, a great way to determine where AEDs are located is to keep an eye out for AED signs. These signs (identified with a heart and lightning bolt) will are usually directly above the AED or will guide you towards where one can be found.
Most AEDs will be located in a noticeable spot (on a wall, near the front desk, etc.), and should be labeled with signage, or bright red and white storage units. Keep an eye out for these AED units the next time you are in a public place. And when you see one? #AEDFOUND!
Find those AED locations nearest you and feel safe and prepared! Once you have identified the closest AED, you have the knowledge and confidence to act quickly when cardiac arrest occurs. Don’t see an AED near you? Speak to the person in charge and discuss the importance of having a defibrillator handy!
Need a little help convincing your boss that an AED is needed in the office? We have the answer!
