It’s estimated that 350,000 people experience sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital setting each year. Every minute that the patient goes without defibrillation, their chances of survival decrease by 7 to 10 percent.

Law enforcement is often the first to arrive on the scene of a cardiac emergency. This makes it essential for all police cars to have an AED (automated external defibrillator). Here are a few reasons every policy car needs an AED.

A Biomedical AED is a Lifesaver

Once the patient’s heart stops beating, it needs to be restarted within minutes to prevent brain damage or death.

When the heart doesn’t beat, the brain and other organs don’t get the oxygen and blood they need. This can cause permanent disabilities. An AED administers electricity to the heart so that it starts beating again.

As the first people on the scene of a medical emergency, police officers need instant access to this life saving device.

While CPR will keep blood flowing to the heart and brain, an AED is necessary to restart the patient’s heart.

AEDs are Easy to Learn How to Use

AEDs are relatively easy for police officers to learn how to use. Training is widely available and also offered online.

The AED does much of the work. Once the electrodes are placed on the patient’s chest, the AED will monitor the heart to determine if short is needed.

If shock is advised, the AED will provide voice prompts that guide you through the process. There are even AEDs that will deliver escalating amounts of energy for patients that are hard to defibrillate.

An AED Will Last for Years

While you can never put a price on a patient’s life, an AED is a smart investment for police departments that will allow them to supply years of lifesaving care.

Although the lifespan will depend on how frequently they’re used and how they’re stored, most AEDs last between 10 and 15 years.

How to Buy Your EMS AED

Visit Coast Biomedical Equipment to purchase your EMS AED. Look for a unit that offers rescuer guidance. Refurbished AEDs are even available if you’re searching for a budget-friendly option that’s still highly effective.