Suggested Steps to Starting a Public Access to Defibrillation Program in Your Community

  • Start a community task force of 5 to 7 people, who would work to develop the program. The group would be made up of:

    • Task Force Coordinator

    • Medical Director

    • Device Coordinator

    • CPR/AED Educator

    • City/Town Official

    • Resource People

    • School Administrator

  • Complete a needs assessment to determine the locations that require an AED and how and who would need training and how the machines will be maintained.

  • Work to educate the community on the need and gain support for your program

  • Find a Medical Director, if required in your province or territory

  • Research the devices that you would purchase

  • Begin to look for funding to support through organizations such as:

    • Civic organizations

    • Corporate organizations that maybe interested in donating

    • Grants – through governments and other private foundations

    • Community fundraisers

  • Develop a response and training plan

  • Train rescuers

  • Install equipment

  • Maintain equipment