AED Machines

Have you ever been in a public space and seen an Automated External Defibulator (AED) or a sign pointing to the location of one? Like fire extinguishers, AEDs have become a vital tool in emergencies, specifically in emergencies involving cardiac arrest.

According to AED Leader, “AED survival rates without chest compressions or defibrillation are essentially zero, but with early bystander CPR and defibrillation shock provided within less than 3 minutes after collapse, the AED survival rate can be as high as 74% for patient with ventricular fibrillation”.

Studies have shown over and over again that a rapid response is the most crucial element to survival. Having an automated external defibrillator nearby and knowing how to recognize the signs of sudden cardiac arrest could save hundreds or even thousands of lives.

Members of the IMT Safety Committee and several members of our Senior Leadership Team recently attended a 3-hour hands-on educational training session on CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and AED use.

In addition to this training was a recent replacement and upgrade of our existing AED machines. As is the case with most technology, the advances in these machines over the past decade has been remarkable. Our new AEDs are now easier to use, maintain, and we can verify battery life and unit condition through wireless connectivity monitoring.

The American Heart Association lists these 5 things to know about AEDs:

They are a person’s best chance for survival
Call 911 and start CPR first
Anyone can use an AED – even a child
You can’t make things worse
You can’t get in trouble.

If you do not have an AED available in your office, our Loss Control department recommends looking into purchasing a unit and providing proper and certified CPR and AED training. We also recommend talking to your clients about the benefits of doing the same at their facilities and job sites.

The IMT Loss Control Department has resources available to help our agents and insureds in their efforts to reduce exposures and injuries while promoting safety at the workplace and in the home. Please contact the IMT Loss Control Department if you have an insured you think could benefit from additional information or a loss control visit.