Renting vs. Purchasing an AED: What’s Best for Your Organization?

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

When it comes to emergency preparedness, having an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on-site can be the difference between life and death. AEDs are life-saving devices used to treat sudden cardiac arrest by delivering an electric shock to the heart. While it’s clear that having an AED is essential, many businesses, schools, event organizers, and community centers face a common dilemma: Should you rent or purchase an AED?

Let’s break down the benefits of both options to help you determine which is the best choice for your needs.

 Benefits of Renting an AED:
  1. Lower Upfront Cost
    1. Renting allows you to access life-saving equipment without the large upfront investment of purchasing.
  2. Short-Term Flexibility
    1. Ideal for temporary events, construction sites, film productions, or short-term projects.
  3. Maintenance Included
    1. Most rental agreements include maintenance, replacement batteries, pads, and software updates at no additional cost.
  4. Regulatory Compliance
    1. Providers typically ensure the AED remains compliant with current regulations and standards.
  5. Upgrade Opportunities
    1. You can often upgrade to newer models during long-term rental contracts.
 Benefits of Buying an AED:
  1. Long-Term Cost Savings
    1. While upfront costs are higher, owning an AED can be more cost-effective over several years.
  2. Always Available
    1. You own it, so it’s always on-site and ready for use — no dependency on rental schedules.
  3. Tailored Training and Integration
    1. Purchased AEDs can be paired with on-site training and emergency response plans designed around your organization’s needs.
  4. Asset Ownership
    1. Buying an AED can be considered a capital investment or asset for accounting purposes.
  5. Customization
    1. You choose the model, storage case, signage, and accessories that best suit your space.

Both renting and purchasing an AED offer distinct advantages, and the best choice depends on your organization’s specific needs, budget, and intended use. Whether you rent or buy, having an AED nearby significantly improves survival rates during cardiac emergencies — and that’s what matters most.

Need help deciding or looking for rental or purchase options? Get in touch with us to explore what works best for you.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com

The Importance of Placing an AED in Your Vehicle

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

When it comes to protecting yourself, your loved ones, and even strangers, few investments are as impactful as having a personal Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in your vehicle. Every second counts during a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), and being prepared can mean the difference between life and death.

Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, striking without warning. It can happen to anyone—young or old, healthy or with pre-existing conditions. When the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, oxygen-rich blood no longer reaches the brain and vital organs. Without immediate intervention, the odds of survival drop by about 10% every minute that passes without defibrillation.

  • Always Within Reach – Whether you’re commuting, running errands, or on a road trip, your car is often with you. Having an AED inside ensures it’s readily available wherever you are.
  • Fast Response Time – Emergency medical services (EMS) response times vary, especially in rural areas or during heavy traffic. An AED in your vehicle allows you to act before help arrives.
  • Coverage for Public Spaces – Many cardiac arrests occur outside of the home, in places like parks, sporting events, and shopping centers. If you arrive on scene before EMS, your AED could save a life.

You might think personal AEDs are only for people with known heart conditions, but they’re valuable for:

  • Parents and grandparents who attend youth sports games.
  • Coaches, teachers, or community volunteers.
  • Frequent travelers, delivery drivers, or ride-share operators.
  • Anyone who wants peace of mind knowing they can respond to an emergency.

Modern AEDs are lightweight, easy to operate, and designed for use by non-medical bystanders. They provide voice prompts to guide you through the process, ensuring you can act confidently even under pressure. Many units also self-test daily to ensure readiness.

Having an AED in your vehicle isn’t just about personal safety—it’s about being a community asset. In those critical minutes before EMS arrives, you could restart a heart, give a second chance at life, and forever change someone’s story.

Be prepared. Be the difference.
 A personal AED in your vehicle is more than a piece of equipment—it’s a commitment to saving lives wherever the road takes you.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com

Staying Safe in the Summertime Heat: Beat the Heat Before It Beats You

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

Summer brings sunshine, pool days, outdoor adventures, and quality time with loved ones—but it also brings rising temperatures that can pose serious health risks if you’re not prepared. Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and even sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can strike quickly and without warning. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and prevention strategies is crucial for staying safe and keeping your summer fun from turning dangerous.

🔥 Understanding Heat-Related Illnesses

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs when your body overheats and can’t cool down properly due to excessive exposure to high temperatures, especially when combined with high humidity and strenuous activity.

Symptoms include:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Weak, rapid pulse
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headache and fatigue

If untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke—a true medical emergency.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It happens when your body temperature rises above 104°F and your body’s cooling system fails. It can cause permanent damage to your brain and vital organs—or even death.

Symptoms include:

  • Hot, dry skin (no sweating)
  • Confusion or altered mental state
  • Slurred speech
  • Seizures
  • Unconsciousness

Call 911 immediately if you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)

While not caused by heat alone, SCA can be triggered by underlying heart conditions worsened by extreme heat, dehydration, and overexertion—especially in older adults or athletes. SCA causes the heart to suddenly stop beating, and without immediate CPR and defibrillation, it can be fatal within minutes.

☀️ Prevention Tips to Stay Safe This Summer

  1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
    1. Drink water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty.
    2. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which dehydrate you faster.
  2. Dress Smart
    1. Wear lightweight, light-colored, breathable clothing.
    2. Use wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
  3. Plan Around the Heat
    1. Avoid strenuous activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
    2. Take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors.
  4. Know the Warning Signs
    1. Learn the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
    2. Act quickly if you or someone else is showing signs—cool the body and seek help.
  5. Never Leave Anyone in a Hot Car
    1. Not even for a minute. Children and pets are especially vulnerable.
  6. Be AED Aware
    1. Ensure an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is nearby at pools, sports fields, and events.
    2. Learn how to use an AED and perform CPR—it could save a life in a sudden cardiac emergency.

❤️ Final Thoughts: Prevention Saves Lives

With a little preparation and awareness, you can protect yourself and others from heat-related illnesses this summer. Whether you’re hitting the beach, heading to a ballgame, or just enjoying your backyard, stay alert, stay hydrated, and stay safe.

Because when it comes to heat emergencies, your quick action can mean the difference between life and death.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com

Should You Have an In-Home AED if You Have an ICD?

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

For individuals living with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD), the thought of adding an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at home might raise questions. Is it necessary? Does it offer added protection? 

Let’s explore the benefits of having an in-home AED for patients who already have an ICD, to help patients, families, and caregivers make an informed decision about cardiac preparedness at home.

1. Backup if the ICD Fails or Malfunctions

While rare, ICDs can fail—whether due to battery depletion, lead fractures, or programming errors. In such instances, having a home AED provides a life-saving backup if sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) occurs and the ICD does not respond appropriately.

2. Protection for Others in the Home

An AED isn’t just for the ICD patient. If family members or caregivers also have underlying heart conditions or risks, the AED can be a valuable resource for the whole household.

3. Added Peace of Mind

Knowing there’s an AED nearby can provide emotional reassurance for patients and loved ones. This psychological safety net can help reduce anxiety and promote peace of mind during daily life.

4. Supports Emergency Response

In some emergencies, ICDs may deliver multiple shocks, but the patient may not regain consciousness or maintain a viable rhythm. In these scenarios, external defibrillation and CPR may still be necessary—and having an AED available ensures immediate action while awaiting EMS.

5. Improved Outcomes in High-Risk Scenarios

Patients with a history of frequent arrhythmias, heart failure, or prior cardiac arrest may benefit from a layered approach to cardiac care. An AED ensures that first responders or family members can act quickly, even if the ICD initiates therapy.

An ICD is a powerful tool to prevent sudden cardiac death—but having an in-home AED can offer an extra layer of security when every second counts. For those living with or caring for someone with a heart condition, open conversations with a cardiologist or electrophysiologist can help determine whether this investment makes sense.

If you decide to move forward with an AED, make sure your household is trained in CPR, familiar with the device, and ready to act. Because when it comes to sudden cardiac arrest, preparedness saves lives.

Need help selecting or managing a home AED? At GoRescue, we’re here to help with expert guidance, trusted devices, and training resources to empower every household. Reach out today to learn more.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com

Your Hand Is Their Heart: The Life-Changing Power of Bystander CPR

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

When someone collapses from sudden cardiac arrest, time becomes the most critical factor. Every second without circulation decreases their chance of survival. But here’s the powerful truth: your hand can become their heart.

That’s right—Your Hand Is Their Heart. With each compression you give, you’re acting as a life-support system, pumping blood to vital organs and keeping them alive until professional help arrives.

Why Bystander CPR Matters

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives each year. It can happen anywhere—on the street, at home, in the gym, or at a ball game. But what happens in the first few minutes after collapse is critical.

When a bystander steps in and starts high-quality CPR, it can double or even triple the chance of survival.

Unfortunately, too many people hesitate to act. Maybe they’re afraid of doing it wrong. Maybe they think someone else will step in. But doing something is almost always better than doing nothing. And hands-only CPR is simple and effective:

  1. Call 911 (or direct someone else to do it).
  2. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (to the beat of a song like Stayin’ Alive).
  3. Don’t stop until help arrives or an AED is available.

Every Second Counts

The heart stops pumping oxygen-rich blood to the brain and body immediately after cardiac arrest. Brain damage can begin in as little as 4–6 minutes without circulation. Emergency services often take longer than that to arrive. That’s why you—yes, you—are the first line of defense.

Your quick action can keep someone’s brain and body alive until professional responders can restart their heart.

The Simplicity and Strength of Hands-Only CPR

You don’t need to be certified to perform hands-only CPR. Just knowing the basics and having the courage to step in can make all the difference.

  • No breaths required. Just focus on hard, fast compressions.
  • 100–120 compressions per minute. That’s about 2 per second.
  • Push at least 2 inches deep in the center of the chest.

Be the Difference

When you hear, “Your Hand Is Their Heart,” remember: your hands hold the power to save a life. You don’t need a medical degree. You don’t need special equipment. You need the willingness to act and the confidence that your help matters.

If you’ve never taken a CPR course, let this be your sign to do it. If you’ve taken one before, consider refreshing your skills or practicing on a manikin.

Because one day, a life may depend on your hands.

Your Hand Is Their Heart—Don’t Hesitate. Start CPR. Save a Life.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com

Why Every Pool Needs an AED This Summer — From Backyard Pools to HOA Swim Clubs

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, families and communities everywhere are opening their pools for the summer season. Whether it’s your own backyard pool or the neighborhood HOA swimming facility, now is the perfect time to think beyond sunscreen and pool noodles — and make sure lifesaving equipment like an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is part of your poolside safety plan.

While drowning remains a serious concern around water, sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is an often overlooked risk. Drowning can trigger cardiac arrest, and in some cases, cardiac events occur first, especially in individuals with underlying heart conditions. Children, teens, adults — no one is immune.

When SCA happens, every second counts. CPR helps, but defibrillation within 3–5 minutes of collapse can increase survival rates by up to 70%. That’s where an AED comes in — a lightweight, easy-to-use device that can restore a normal heart rhythm with a shock if needed.

Here’s why having an AED near your pool is just as essential as a life ring or a first aid kit:

  1. Water and Heart Health Don’t Always Mix
    Cold water, overexertion, or pre-existing heart conditions can lead to SCA — even in young, healthy swimmers.
  2. Time is Critical
    Calling 911 is important, but emergency responders may not arrive fast enough. AEDs give bystanders the power to act immediately while waiting for help.
  3. Most Cardiac Arrests Are Witnessed
    In busy pool environments, there are usually bystanders present who can use an AED. The sooner the shock is delivered, the better the outcome.
  4. Easy to Use — Even for Non-Medical Personnel
    Modern AEDs provide step-by-step voice instructions, making them user-friendly for anyone in an emergency situation.
  5. Liability & Responsibility
    For HOA-managed pools, having an AED on site demonstrates proactive safety planning and can reduce legal liability in the event of a tragedy.

Training pool staff, lifeguards, and even regular pool-goers on CPR and AED use can make all the difference. Adding signage and regular safety checks ensures that your AED is visible, charged, and ready to rescue.

As we dive into the fun of summer, don’t overlook this critical layer of protection. AEDs save lives — and placing one within reach at your HOA pool, swim club, or even backyard pool could be the difference between life and death.

This season, let’s make poolside preparedness a priority — because every life is worth saving.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com

Celebrating National CPR and AED Awareness Week 2025: Empowering Communities to Save Lives

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

June 1–7 marks National CPR and AED Awareness Week, a time to spotlight the life-saving power of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillators (AEDs). This observance serves as a reminder that anyone, anywhere, can be trained to act in a cardiac emergency—and that doing so can make all the difference.

🫀 Why CPR and AED Matter

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) claims over 350,000 lives annually in the United States, with approximately 70% occurring at home. When the heart stops beating, every second counts. For each minute without CPR, the chance of survival decreases by 7–10%. Immediate action—starting CPR and using an AED—can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.

🧠 The Power of Hands-Only CPR

Hands-Only CPR is a simplified technique that removes the need for mouth-to-mouth contact, making it more accessible and less intimidating for untrained bystanders. It involves two simple steps: call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest. This approach has been shown to be as effective as conventional CPR in many cases and encourages more people to take action during emergencies.

⚡ The Role of AEDs

An AED is a portable device that can analyze a person’s heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver a shock to restore normal rhythm. Using an AED within the first three minutes of cardiac arrest can boost survival rates by over 80%. Despite their effectiveness, many people hesitate to use AEDs due to misconceptions about their complexity. In reality, AEDs are designed for ease of use, with visual and audio prompts guiding users through the process.

Most cardiac arrests occur at home, often involving loved ones. This underscores the importance of having trained individuals in every household. By learning CPR and familiarizing oneself with the location of nearby AEDs, you can become a vital link in the chain of survival. Programs like PulsePoint are working to increase AED accessibility and alert trained bystanders to nearby emergencies.

During National CPR and AED Awareness Week, consider taking a CPR and AED training course. The American Heart Association offers resources to help you find a course near you. Additionally, many communities host events and provide free training sessions to encourage widespread participation.

🫶 You Can Be a Lifesaver

Whether you’re at home, at work, or in your community, knowing CPR and how to use an AED can empower you to act swiftly and effectively in a cardiac emergency. By participating in National CPR and AED Awareness Week, you’re not only gaining valuable skills but also contributing to a culture of preparedness and care.Remember, every second counts. This week, take the step to learn CPR and AED skills—you could be the difference between life and death for someone you love.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com

Honoring Heroes by Saving Lives: Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness in Military Communities

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

May is Military Appreciation Month—a time to honor the service, sacrifice, and strength of the men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces. As we salute our military heroes, it’s also a fitting moment to raise awareness about a silent threat that affects even the healthiest individuals: Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA).

SCA is a life-threatening condition where the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. It differs from a heart attack—while a heart attack is a circulation problem, SCA is an electrical malfunction. Without immediate intervention, SCA can lead to death within minutes.

Why It Matters for the Military

Service members are often perceived as the pinnacle of health and endurance. However, SCA does not discriminate. In fact, data shows that even young, fit individuals—like active-duty personnel—are not immune to sudden cardiac events.

  • According to the Department of Defense, over 100 cases of SCA occur annually among military personnel.
  • Exercise and high-stress environments, common in military training and deployments, can unmask undetected heart conditions.
  • Studies have shown that most SCA cases in military settings occur during or shortly after physical exertion, making preparedness critical.
Seconds Matter: The Role of AEDs

When someone experiences SCA, every minute without defibrillation decreases the chance of survival by 7–10%. CPR is crucial, but defibrillation is what restarts the heart. That’s where AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) come in.

Why AEDs Save Lives:
  • Easy to use, even without medical training.
  • Provides clear voice prompts to guide the user.
  • Can be used within seconds to deliver a life-saving shock.

In military bases, gyms, barracks, and training facilities, having readily accessible AEDs can mean the difference between life and death.

Awareness is the First Line of Defense

The more people who understand what SCA is and how to respond, the more lives can be saved. For military families, veterans, and active-duty members, here’s what you can do:

  • Learn CPR and how to use an AED.
  • Ask about AED locations on your base, gym, or work site.
  • Advocate for regular screenings, especially for recruits and service members engaged in high-intensity training.
  • Support programs that increase AED access in military housing, schools, and public areas.
Real Stories, Real Impact

There are countless stories of lives saved because someone nearby knew CPR or had access to an AED. In 2022, an Air Force member collapsed during a routine PT session—thanks to quick action and an on-site AED, he survived and returned to full duty.

Honor Through Action

This Military Appreciation Month, let’s honor our heroes not just with words, but with life-saving awareness and preparedness.  Whether you’re a service member, veteran, family member, or civilian supporter, you have a role to play in the chain of survival.

Because heroes deserve every chance to come home safely—even from a silent threat like Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com

Honoring Our Everyday Heroes: Celebrating EMS Week

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

Every year during the third week of May, communities across the United States come together to recognize and celebrate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week—a time dedicated to honoring the brave individuals who serve as the first line of care in times of crisis. These professionals, often the first on the scene, are more than just responders; they are true heroes who deliver life-saving support when every second counts.

EMS professionals include paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), dispatchers, and support staff who work tirelessly, often in high-stress, unpredictable situations. Whether it’s a car accident, a cardiac arrest, or a natural disaster, EMS teams are trained to handle emergencies with skill, speed, and compassion.

These heroes don’t clock out at five or take holidays off. They work around the clock, in all weather conditions, often putting their own safety at risk to protect and care for others. Their commitment to their communities is nothing short of extraordinary.

To be in EMS is to answer a calling. It takes a special kind of person to remain calm under pressure, to act decisively when lives are on the line, and to offer comfort to patients and families in their most vulnerable moments. EMS workers are teachers, caretakers, and crisis managers all rolled into one. They are trained professionals—but also your neighbors, friends, and family members.

EMS Week isn’t just a calendar event—it’s a heartfelt reminder to express our appreciation. It’s a time to say “thank you” to the paramedics who revived a loved one, to the EMTs who showed kindness in a moment of fear, and to the dispatchers whose calm voices guide people through emergencies long before help arrives.

Hospitals, fire departments, schools, and municipalities across the nation host events, recognition ceremonies, and educational initiatives to celebrate and support EMS professionals. But beyond the banners and thank-you cards, the greatest gift we can offer is respect, advocacy, and continued investment in their training, equipment, and well-being.

As we celebrate EMS Week, let’s carry forward a deeper appreciation for the men and women who serve with courage and compassion. Let’s teach our children about the important work they do, support policies that protect and empower them, and never forget that in the most critical moments, EMS professionals are there—steadfast and ready.

To all EMS workers: Thank you. You are heroes in every sense of the word, and your service does not go unnoticed.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com

The Importance of Having a Bleeding Control Kit with Your AED

Bleeding Control Kit

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

In an emergency, every second counts. Whether it’s a sudden cardiac arrest or a severe bleeding injury, having the right life-saving equipment readily available can make all the difference. Most public places, businesses, and institutions have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to provide immediate assistance in cardiac emergencies. However, there’s another critical component that should always be placed alongside an AED—a bleeding control kit.

Why a Bleeding Control Kit is Essential

1. Uncontrolled Bleeding is a Leading Cause of Preventable Death

Severe bleeding can cause death within minutes if not controlled properly. According to the Stop the Bleed initiative, a person can die from blood loss in as little as five minutes. Immediate intervention with a bleeding control kit can significantly improve survival chances, just as an AED does for sudden cardiac arrest.

2. Emergencies Are Unpredictable

Medical emergencies don’t always come in isolation. Accidents such as workplace injuries, motor vehicle collisions, active shooter situations, or even natural disasters can cause life-threatening bleeding. Having a bleeding control kit available ensures that responders can act immediately to stop the bleeding before professional medical help arrives.

3. Bridging the Gap Until First Responders Arrive

The average response time for emergency medical services (EMS) varies but can often exceed 5-10 minutes, especially in rural areas. In cases of severe hemorrhaging, a bleeding control kit provides the necessary tools to stabilize a victim, increasing their chances of survival while waiting for paramedics.

4. Complements AED Placement

AEDs are strategically placed in high-traffic areas such as schools, airports, shopping centers, and workplaces. Pairing them with bleeding control kits ensures a more comprehensive emergency response system. Just as AEDs empower bystanders to act quickly in cardiac emergencies, a bleeding control kit allows non-medical personnel to intervene in bleeding emergencies effectively.

A well-equipped bleeding control kit should contain:

  • Tourniquets – To stop severe bleeding from limb injuries
  • Hemostatic Dressings – To promote clotting and control heavy bleeding
  • Compression Bandages – To apply direct pressure to wounds
  • Trauma Shears – To cut clothing and access wounds
  • Gloves – To protect the responder and prevent contamination
  • Instructional Guide – To provide step-by-step guidance for untrained individuals

The addition of a bleeding control kit alongside an AED is a simple yet powerful step in improving emergency preparedness. Cardiac arrest and severe bleeding are both time-sensitive emergencies where early intervention can mean the difference between life and death. By ensuring that both AEDs and bleeding control kits are available in public spaces and workplaces, we can create safer environments and empower everyday people to save lives.

Take action today—check if your AED locations are equipped with a bleeding control kit, and advocate for their inclusion if they are not. Because when an emergency happens, being prepared is the best way to make a difference.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: info@aed365.com