Is there one near you?
There are many brands of Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on the market today. While the vast majority of these units operate in essentially the same way there will always be little differences in terms of battery life, maintenance, recalls and other issues. What follows is a quick guide to keeping your AED rescue ready.
The Very Very Basics
How often must a visual inspection be carried out on your AED?
This may just be a simple case of verifying that a status LED flashes on occasion, but who is responsible for this and can you verify that it is taking place?
AED Batteries have a life span.
Some AED batteries can be recharged.
AED Pads also have a life span.
These things require monitoring, do you have a simple means of monitoring these items and ensuring that you are informed when dates for replacements come up?
CLICK HERE to download a simple checklist for a monthly check.
You can easily amend this to suit your models recommended maintenance schedule.
Ensure you clearly mark that at the end of the calendar is a battery or pad replacement.
The Weather and your AED
AED manufacturers have been very good at ensuring that their models have a good degree of protection from dust and water. Still, no AED should be stored in a damp environment.
Temperature wise, all manufacturers have a recommended storage temperature for their AED's, meaning there is a temperature below which an AED cannot be stored. Ensure that you are up to date on the conditions that apply to yours.
And while manufacturers can state different things in relation to this, what does your manual say?
The information in your manual most likely constitutes your warranty conditions.
Do not disobey the manual!
News on your AED
Your AED’s manufacturer or your supplier will most likely has a website and may also have a newsletter. These are good sources of news and information relating to your product. It is a very good idea to subscribe to these newsletter as you should then get product updates in a timely manner.
Updates and Recalls
Unfortunately, just like many devices, there are occasional defects which prompt recalls and the need for software updates. Generally, your supplier should contact you with news of these but it is wise to keep yourself informed.
There are many very good sources for information on recalls and updates.
These include the FDA, and the Irish Medicines Board to name but two.
On their websites, do a search for defibrillators in general or for your brand and see what comes up. Subscribe to their newsletter also for up to date information.
Don’t panic if you see something that affects you brand of AED.
Some of what you will see will likely apply to before you purchased so look carefully, if you have any doubt contact your supplier.
When making contact with suppliers and manufacturers it is always useful to have the following information to hand: Your AED’s serial number/s and your place and date of purchase
Reminder, does your manufacturer and/or supplier have a website and a newsletter?
Subscribe to it.
What have we missed? Contact us with your suggestions.
CLICK HERE for a monthly checklist to help ensure your AED is always rescue ready