Do you need to break the glass or use a key to open the cabinet?
No – although the cabinets are factory-fitted with a lock, we do not lock them. To save precious time in an emergency, you simply lift the cabinet lid to access the defibrillator.
When you open the cabinet lid, are the emergency services automatically notified?
No – when you open the cabinet, an audible alarm will sound. This is to alert people nearby to the emergency so they can render assistance. You still need to call 000 from a phone to call for an ambulance.
Who looks after the AEDs?
We nominate a champion for each device, usually a local shop owner or community member. Any problems can be reported by the public to St John Ambulance on 1 300 ST JOHN.
How often do the AEDs need to be serviced?
The defibrillation pads have a 2-year shelf life and the lithium battery offers a 4-year shelf life. Once installed, St John Ambulance register the device on their system and conduct servicing as required.
How do I locate my nearest AED?
It’s a good idea to know the location of your nearest AED before an emergency occurs. The St John ‘First Responder’ App contains details of known AEDs on its system. However, some devices are not registered with St John Ambulance so keep an eye out around your local community and make your friends and family aware of AEDs located around your neighbourhood and the times they can be accessed. StreetBeat AEDs will be publicly available 24/7.
Who decides where the AED is placed in my suburb?
We install most StreetBeat AEDs in a central shopping area within each suburb. However, if housing density is higher elsewhere, then other locations are considered. We want the AEDs to be accessible to the highest number of people in the shortest possible time.
We have a licencing agreement with ACT Land Management to install devices on public land, subject to a site inspection. We can also install them on private property, if local planning regulations and property owners allow. St John Ambulance make the final decision on the location of each device.
What happens if we raise more money than our target?
Funds raised in excess of the cost of the AED are pooled to fund ongoing servicing and maintenance costs of the devices.
Can I still raise funds after the November campaign period ends?
Of course! We launch the annual appeal on Restart a Heart Day, 16 October, and November is our primary campaign period. Any groups that reach the $2,500 fundraising target in November, have their cabinet and installation (worth $1000) funded by our StreetBeat partner, Community Bank Canberra and Regions.
We use the rest of the year to roll-out the AEDs, but that doesn't mean you can't fundraise for the total installation cost of $3,500 (AED, cabinet and installation) outside the November period.
How long after we raise the funds until the AED is installed?
Once your suburb reaches its target, we identify the best location for the AED and contact the relevant authority or property owner to secure their permission to have the device installed. Timelines may vary, depending on requirements but we will do our best to get the devices to you as soon as possible.
Can I receive training how to use an AED?
The AEDs are easy to use and have voice commands that provide step-by-step instructions what to do. However, if you would like to become familiar with using an AED before finding yourself in an emergency situation, St John Ambulance offers a range of first aid courses.
How would I know if someone is having a cardiac arrest?
Cardiac arrest is caused by an issue in the heart’s electrical system, which may not be detectable beforehand. In cardiac arrest, the event is sudden, the casualty will be unresponsive and unable to breathe normally.
If I use the AED on someone who is not in cardiac arrest, will it damage their heart?
Once applied to the casualty, the AED analyses the heart’s rhythm and determines whether defibrillation is required. If it detects a normal heartbeat, it will not administer a shock.
Can I join a fundraising team after I have registered on the site?
To join a team after you have registered, there are two options:
You can visit the team’s fundraising page and if there is a 'join' option, simply click and join the team directly, without the need for team captain approval. If you’re having difficulty finding a team, click on this link to search for it.
If the team you want to join is private or cannot be found, then the team captain will need to send you a join link to invite you to become part of their team.
