eMed America

Being prepared and having the right equipment for an emergency situation is an essential component for a safety program.  Conducting mock drills at least twice a year is of utmost importance to insure you and your team are prepared for fire, hazardous weather, accident or health issue.

Mock drills for your public access defibrillator program (PAD) are just as essential.  Purchasing and owning an automated external defibrillator (AED) and having individuals trained in CPR/AED is a great first step in your AED implementation program.  But with mock drills will help you and your response team identify glitches that can and do occur during emergency situations.

Here are some guidelines for planning a mock drill:

• A drill should be conducted soon after a CPR/AED training.
• Drills should be conducted regularly – at least twice a year.  This also provides an opportunity to test units and check expiration dates.
• Participation is key!  Getting people involved!  It is important everyone is familiar with the emergency response plan.  If they are not trained responders, let them know there will be a mock drill taking place and ask them to observe.
• Inquire with your local EMS/fire department to be available for assisting with scenarios.
• Notify appropriate personnel when you will be conducting a mock drill.
• Be sure all participants are aware of AED locations!

Be sure and read tomorrow’s blog on How To Conduct a Mock Drill.

If you would like more information on AEDs or CPR training and emergency medical products, call eMED at 866.327.3633 or email us at:  info@emedamerica.com.

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are becoming much more common throughout communities, schools, churches and the workplace.  These life-saving devices are becoming almost a standard in most areas, and a law in many states and municipalities.

These life-saving, portable heart defibrillators are automated and provide step-by-step instructions for use during a cardiac emergency.   These devices also perform a daily, weekly and monthly self-check.   But, there is maintenance required for these devices.

Here are some items you should take a moment to look at:

• Check the expiration date on your AED batteries
• Check the expiration date on your pads (electrodes)
• Check the readiness indicator light to make sure the unit is ready
• Do you have personnel who have not been trained?
• Is everyone aware of the location of your AED?
• Do you have an emergency response plan?
• Do you have enough AEDs?  email eMED:  info@emedamerica.com for a free Site Assessment Tool
• Is your AED in a wall-mounted cabinet with appropriate signage?

The eMED team is always available to assist you with your questions regarding AEDs or, AED batteries and/or pads.  If you are in need of new accessories or would like to begin or enhance your AED/emergency response preparedness, give eMED a call today:  866.327.3633.