That’s a brilliant first step towards keeping your workplace, community, or event space safe.
But here’s the truth: a defib only saves lives if it’s ready to go when someone really needs it. Luckily, looking after it isn’t rocket science – and yes, you can get your community involved and make it a bit of fun too! We hear horror stories of defibrillators being brought to the scene and not working, due to people not organising them being regularly checked. Maybe the battery has died, maybe the box has been leaking, maybe they have been vandalised, maybe the pads have expired… all it takes is a quick regular check to know that it is safe and ready.
1. Choosing Your Defib (The Fun Part!)
Before we even talk maintenance, let’s make sure you’ve got the right gadget:
Type: Most public AEDs are automatic or semi-automatic. They talk you through it, so no medical degree required.
Toughness: Indoors, outdoors, a busy office or a football club? Make sure your AED can handle it.
Battery & pads: Know how long they last and when you’ll need replacements. No one wants a flat battery in an emergency!
Extras: Some AEDs give voice guidance, CPR timers, or little lights that cheer you on. Handy, right?
There does seem like lots of choice so it is best to find a supplier and discuss with them what your needs are in order to work out the best machine for your needs. If you are unsure where to start get int touch with us and we’ll point you in the right direction.
2. Get on the Map with The Circuit
Even the fanciest, sparkliest defib does zero good if no one knows where it is. Enter The Circuit – the UK’s national defib network.
Why bother? When someone dials 999, ambulance services can see the nearest registered AED. Yours could be the one that saves a life.
What info do you need? Location, accessibility, serial number, pad expiry, battery status. The registration process is straight forward, so as long as you have the defib packaging you will have the answers.
Pro tip: The Circuit lets you log status checks and update info so everyone knows your AED is ready – it will also send you reminders to check on your defib, which is super handy!
Bonus: You can assign a “Defib Guardian” – someone who checks the AED weekly, keeps it spick and span, and maybe even gives it a funny name. (We like “Blinky” for the green light!)
3. Keep Your Defib Happy
A happy AED = a ready AED. Here’s what to do:
Check the light: Green = ready. Red/blinking = panic (but the calm, sorted kind).
Check battery & pads: Make a note of expiry dates and replace before they run out.
Clean & store: Keep it visible, easy to reach, and safe from dust, rain, or frost – you can look into defib boxes if storing publicly outdoors. These boxes are heated and keep the defib battery lasting longer.
After use: Replace pads, check the battery, give it a pep talk. It’s been through an emotional moment.
Logging your checks on The Circuit or even a paper chart makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
4. Fundraising: Make It a Community Thing
No defib yet? No worries – your community can help. And it can actually be fun!
Events: Bake sales, fun runs, charity quizzes – all good excuses to eat cake while saving lives.
Local businesses: Some companies love sponsoring community safety projects.
Grants: Local councils, charities, and health orgs often fund AEDs.
Crowdfunding: GoFundMe or Facebook groups can rally the troops.
Pro tip: Fundraising doubles as education – show off your AED, explain how it works, and get everyone excited about lifesaving.
5. Make It a Habit
Looking after your AED isn’t a “one-and-done.” Make it routine:
Weekly visual check 👀
Monthly battery & pad check 🔋
Log it all in a chart or on The Circuit 📝
Update your community if anything changes 📣
Do this, and your defib will be ready for anything – and that’s priceless.
Final Thoughts
A defib is an amazing first step – but registering it, maintaining it, and involving your community? That’s the magic that saves lives.
So, pick the right AED, put it on The Circuit, check it regularly, and maybe give it a funny name. A few minutes a week keeps your defib ready to leap into action.
Defibrillators are super easy to use, but if you are worried then book on to one of our basic first aid courses to have a go with a training device in the classroom.
