4 Reasons Your Organization Should Have an AED

id you know that a person’s chances of surviving sudden cardiac arrest increases significantly if an AED is used, as opposed to CPR alone? Here is what you need to know about AEDs.

1. It can save lives.
   1. When an AED is used within three minutes of a person collapsing from sudden cardiac arrest, their chances of survival are about 70%. The chances of surviving SCA decrease by 10% every minute that passes between collapse and shock.
2. It can save lives.
   1. Every year, nearly 2,000 people under the age of 25 die from sudden cardiac arrest. Having an AED on hand at youth-based organization can lower this statistic by providing a timely shock to the heart. We also recommend CPR training.
3. It can save lives.
   1. Sudden cardiac arrest is the number one cause of death among student athletes. When we have access to an AED and properly trained faculty and staff, student athletes can be confident that if a cardiac emergency should occur, there are people prepared to help equipped with lifesaving technology.
4. It can save lives.
   1. Using an AED does not require a medical degree or license. Anyone can use an AED. Most devices placed in public spaces have clear instructions on use. When powered on, the devices will give verbal instructions from pad placement to when to push the shock button. An AED will not shock a person if it determines a shock is not needed. The device will only issue a shock if one is necessary. Because of this, an AED can be used by anyone.

AEDs save lives. They can prevent the death of young people in after-school programs, sporting facilities, schools, camps, and more. Living for Zachary exists to bring these devices to youth-based organizations and lower the number of young lives lost to sudden cardiac arrest.

This holiday season, you can help lower the number of lives lost to sudden cardiac arrest through a donation to Living for Zachary. When you give, you join the team. Our team raises awareness for sudden cardiac arrest, donates AEDs and SaveStations, provides CPR training, offers heart screening opportunities, and more.