--- title: "Automated External Defibrillator: Important Information About AEDs" description: "Automated External Defibrillator: Important Information About AEDs" image: https://static.hsstatic.net/BlogImporterAssetsUI/ex/missing-image.png ---   # Automated External Defibrillator: Important Information About AEDs By [swimoc](https://blog.swimoc.com/blog/author/adminwm) December 04 , 2014 [Blog](https://blog.swimoc.com/blog/topic/blog) [No Comments](https://blog.swimoc.com/blog/automated-external-defibrillator-important-information-about-aeds#comments-listing) - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![1024px-CPR_training-03-300x200](https://static.hsstatic.net/BlogImporterAssetsUI/ex/missing-image.png)](https://static.hsstatic.net/BlogImporterAssetsUI/ex/missing-image.png) An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that checks a person’s heart rhythm and sends an electric shock to the heart in an attempt to restore a normal rhythm. **How The Heart Works** Inside the heart there is an electrical system that regulates the rate and rhythm of the heartbeat. An average resting adult’s heart beats 72 times per minute. Each time a beat occurs, an electrical signal spreads from the top of the heart to the bottom, causing the heart to contract and pump blood. When a problem with the heart’s electrical system occurs, this causes an irregular heartbeat and can trigger a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). **How An AED Works** An AED should be used on someone who could possibly be having a sudden cardiac arrest. When an SCA occurs, death can follow if the problem is not treated within minutes. Automated external defibrillators are lightweight, battery-operated and portable devices. Each AED package comes equipped with electrode pads, a CPR mask, a first aid pack and the AED Unit. [![AED_open_cutout-235x300](https://static.hsstatic.net/BlogImporterAssetsUI/ex/missing-image.png)](https://static.hsstatic.net/BlogImporterAssetsUI/ex/missing-image.png) Once the AED is turned on, a voice prompts you with directions on how to use the device. Before using it yourself, you should always check to see if there are any trained CPR/AED personal in the area. If so, leave the operation of the device to them. An AED is safe to use and there have been no reported instances where the device has administered an inappropriate shock or harmed any bystanders. **Training To Use An AED** According the [Red Cross](http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/workplace/easy-as-aed), AEDs can be credited for saving thousands of lives each year. Automated external defibrillators can now be found on a majority of high school campuses and in sports complexes across the country. These devices are becoming common pieces of lifesaving equipment. Now that automated external defibrillators can be found in most public areas, it is more important than ever that you know how to properly operate one. Sign-Up for one of our [CPR/AED classes](http://swimoc.com/swim-club-registration/aliso-viejo-health-and-safety-registration/) today to be trained how to efficiently use the device. We also sell the only AEDs on the market that provide live CPR feedback for the user. Knowing how to use an AED could save a life. 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