Vital Heart Facts & The Lifesaving Role of AEDs

The human heart is a muscular marvel, beating around 100,000 times per day and pumping approximately 7,500 litres of blood through over 60,000 miles of arteries and veins. Its rhythm begins in the upper chamber (atria) and travels through the heart via electrical impulses. But when something goes wrong, such as with abnormal heart rhythms, coronary artery disease, or heart failure, the heart’s ability to function can suddenly falter.

In the UK, more than 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur each year. Rapid intervention with CPR and a public access defibrillator can significantly boost a person’s chances of survival. These tools are essential for preserving heart muscle and restoring a healthy heart rate, especially in those first few critical minutes.

Vital Heart Facts

• The heart weighs only 250–350 grams, with the left side responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood through the coronary arteries to sustain your entire body.
• A newborn’s heart can beat up to 150 beats per minute, while most adults average 60 to 100 bpm.
• Sudden heart attacks and cardiac events often arise from disrupted electrical activity in the heart, not just blocked arteries.
• The British Heart Foundation highlights cardiovascular disease as the UK’s leading cause of death, underlining the urgent need for greater heart awareness and preparedness.

Why AEDs Are So Critical

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is not just a piece of equipment; it’s a frontline tool in the fight against sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). AEDs read the heart’s electrical signals and, if necessary, deliver a shock to restart a stopped heart.

There are two main types:

• Fully automatic defibrillators: deliver a shock automatically when needed.
• Semi-automatic defibrillators: prompt the responder to press a button before delivering the shock.

Both are designed for simplicity and include real-time CPR coaching, “push harder” feedback, and visual/audio indicators for proper chest compression depth and speed. At Defib Supplies, we offer models like the HeartSine Samaritan 500P, Mindray BeneHeart C1A, ZOLL AED Plus and more that are perfect for both workplace and public use. Learn more about the advanced features and real‑world benefits of our ZOLL AED Plus® and its powerful life-saving response.

Defibrillator Accessibility and Why Location Matters

Too many lives are lost simply because someone couldn’t find a defibrillator near me in time. Installing AEDs in visible, easily accessible places such as schools, gyms, businesses, and parks can make all the difference. Registering your AED with The Circuit ensures that emergency responders can direct people to the nearest defibrillator when every second counts.

Whether you’re at work, home, or a public event, knowing where the closest AED is located increases the odds of a successful outcome by supporting continued blood flow to the brain and organs.

Implantable Defibrillators vs. AEDs

Some people with serious heart conditions are fitted with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), a heart implant defibrillator that automatically corrects dangerous arrhythmias. AEDs, by contrast, are external defibrillators used in emergencies when no internal device is present or when one fails.

Here are answers to common questions:

• Does a defibrillator stop the heart? No. It resets irregular rhythms by delivering a controlled shock.
• Can a defibrillator restart a stopped heart? Yes, when used promptly during cardiac arrest.
• Can you have a heart attack with a pacemaker defibrillator? Yes. While devices reduce risk, they do not eliminate it entirely.

Understanding Defibrillator Cost & Value

Modern AEDs range from £600 to £1,500, depending on the model and features. This typically includes the heart defibrillator unit, pads, battery, and setup. At Defib Supplies, our full product range includes options suitable for schools, sports venues, and workplaces.

Want to dive deeper? Explore our blog for more depth on How Much Does a Defibrillator Cost?

The Chain of Survival

The internationally recognised Chain of Survival highlights the steps that save lives:

1. Recognise symptoms (especially abnormal heart rhythms).
2. Call for help and alert emergency services.
3. Start CPR immediately.
4. Use an AED promptly.
5. Allow trained responders and the ambulance service to take over.

Each minute without intervention reduces chances of survival by 10%. AEDs and public training can bridge the gap and improve response times dramatically.

Empower Your Team & Community

• Map your defibs: Register all devices with The Circuit to help others locate them in an emergency.
• Choose the right device: View our automatic and semi-automatic AEDs.
• Book a training course: Browse our AED & CPR Training Page to equip your team with confidence.
• Drill & inspect: Use training AEDs and CPR manikins to rehearse scenarios.
• Stay stocked: Order replacement pads and batteries before expiry to ensure your unit is always ready.

Your Role in Heart Safety

Your heart works tirelessly, but emergencies are unpredictable. Whether the issue is coronary artery disease, a missed electrical impulse, or an undetected risk, swift action is vital.

By understanding key heart facts, investing in the right defibrillator, and ensuring your team is trained, you become a vital part of your community’s emergency response.

Stay Heart-Safe with Defib Supplies

Sudden cardiac arrest doesn’t come with a warning. But with the right preparation, whether through installing a workplace AED, learning how to use a defibrillator, or ensuring your unit is winter-ready, you can make the difference between life and loss.

At Defib Supplies, we specialise in trusted, MHRA-registered AEDs for schools, businesses, sports clubs, community organisations and more all available from our wide range of AED’s. From reliable models to lifesaving training, our mission is to help everyone stay rescue ready. Wondering how your business can make a meaningful impact while also building trust and visibility? Discover practical ways to get involved in community safety for local businesses and learn how protecting your area with tools like AEDs can benefit both your community and your company.

Unsure which defibrillator suits your setting or need help with AED training?
Our experienced team is here to guide you, from selecting the right device to staying compliant with workplace or public safety regulations.
Contact our team today for tailored support that puts lifesaving confidence in your hands.