Who Should Use an AED?
Increasingly, nonmedical people are being trained to use defibrillators. The American Heart Association promotes the use of AEDs by police officers, firefighters, security guards, sports marshals, ski patrol members, ferryboat crews, and airline flight attendants. Additional people who may benefit from AED training include family and friends of persons at high risk and even employees at worksites or public places where large numbers of people congregate.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is conducting a study to determine who should be trained in AED use and where the devices should be placed. AEDs are usually put in areas where they will most likely be needed, and where quick service by paramedics is not readily available. Common locations include airports, shopping malls, casinos, community centers, and sports or medical facilities.With more AEDs around, the key to safe and proper use is training. The American Heart Association and American Red Cross offer AED classes. Wh
