Strengthening the Chain of Survival means more than teaching people to use an AED. People also need to know how to quickly recognize signs of SCA, start CPR right away, locate and used the defibrillator, and care for the victim until the EMS team arrives.
Everyone who uses an AED should have CPR and AED training, which typically is a three or four-hour course. Many organizations offer this training. Be sure to find a nationally certified course, such as those available through the American Heart Association, American Red Cross or National Safety Council.
You can arrange to have the class taught on-site by an independent training company or at a convenient location in the community through your emergency medical service (EMS), fire department, local hospital or community college. Some organizations adopt a "train the trainer" approach, which lets them become self-sufficient in training responders. If you already offer first aid or CPR through your organization, add AED training to help instill the culture of bystander response throughout your community.
Retraining should occur at least every two years, sooner if your equipment, policies or procedures change. Computer-based refresher training is a useful tool to keep skills sharp.
More resources are available for training in your local community. Visit these sites to find a training resource near you: