With around 60,000 sudden cardiac arrests (SCAs) occurring every year in the UK, it is crucial that the public has access to a defibrillator, also known as an automated external defibrillator (AED).  

While CPR  keeps oxygenated blood flowing to vital organs, defibrillation can correct certain cardiac rhythms. Defibrillators are critical in determining life and death when someone experiences an SCA.  

What is the Purpose of Defibrillation? 

When a person experiences a cardiac arrest, indicated by a sudden collapse, unresponsiveness, and unconsciousness, a defibrillator can be a lifesaver. The life-saving device comes with pads that must be attached to the person’s bare chest. These pads deliver an electric shock to the heart, which can restore a normal rhythm.  

Types of Defibrillators 

Despite their importance, many people hesitate to use a defibrillator, fearing they might make the situation worse. This misconception can be costly It’s crucial that people feel confident using defibrillators. They are designed to be as easy to use as possible, guiding the user step by step through the life-saving process.  

There are two main types of defibrillators:  

• Semi-automatic defibrillators which advise the user when to administer a shock. 

• Fully automatic defibrillators which administer the shock automatically if necessary.  

Although training is not required to operate either type of defibrillator, semi-automatic defibrillators are typically used by trained health professionals.  

The Importance of Using a Defibrillator Early  

Research indicates that survival rates increase when victims receive high-quality CPR and a shock with an AED before emergency service personnel arrive.* It is important to remember that a defibrillator should only be used to revive someone from a cardiac arrest, not a heart attack. While these two conditions are often confused, they are very different.  

During a heart attack, the heart doesn’t receive enough blood due to blocked arteries, but it continues to beat. In contrast, during a cardiac arrest, the heart’s electrical system fails, causing the heart to stop beating entirely. It is in this situation that a defibrillator is needed. Signs of a heart attack may include chest pain, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.  

Accessing AEDs 

Understanding that a cardiac arrest can occur at any time to anyone, having access to a defibrillator is vital. While many public places are equipped with one, there are no legal requirements mandating defibrillators in all locations in the UK.  

However, thanks to a campaign led by Mark King of the Oliver King Foundation, all state-funded schools in England must have a defibrillator on-site. Mark King tragically lost his 12-year-old son to a cardiac arrest while at school.  

Chubb is Here to Support You 

Chubb supplies, installs, and maintains a variety of automated external defibrillators which assess a person’s heart rhythm during a sudden cardiac arrest to determine when it’s appropriate to deliver a shock.  

Once a shockable rhythm is detected, the AED will either deliver a shock automatically or instruct the user to do so by pushing a button. The AED will then advise a rescuer on the next steps. 

Our AEDs are small, portable, and provide real-time feedback using the latest technology. We offer three types of AED’s which are suitable for all businesses and their needs.  

Using a defibrillator within the first 5 minutes can increase survival rates from 6% to as high as 74%. Contact us to find out how our range of AEDs can help to protect your people and customers from a cardiac arrest.