We get asked this question a lot. There is a common misconception that only businesses can own an AED.
An individual can own an AED; numerous private AEDs located in people’s homes. You must still follow the applicable FDA and State laws pertaining to AEDs at your location.
Many families request an AED in their home when they have family members at risk for Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). It is a critical part of the Chain of Survival for people at risk for SCA. Many cardiac arrests occur at home and having an AED can save precious minutes while awaiting EMS to arrive. (Automated external defibrillators: Do you need an AED? Automated external defibrillators: Do you need an AED? – Mayo Clinic)
In an ideal world, there would be an AED in every home. Costs can still be prohibitive for personal/private use. But that is changing…
The average cost of a new AED is around $1500-$2000 with pad and battery replacement costs anywhere from $50-$500 every few years depending on the model.
There are some companies working on lighter, cheaper models with the intent of having one in every home. One such device is already in use in other countries and is awaiting FDA approval in the US.
A group of high school students created a system that incorporates an AED as well as an alerting system for their school project. This device sits on your wall, if and if there is a cardiac arrest nearby, it will alert you, show a map with directions on how to get to the person in need, and it has the defibrillator built in. Innovation at its finest.
If you would like to learn more about having an AED in your home, Contact us today for more information.
