DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services: Questions & Answers About AEDs
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Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
 
No. Question Answer
6.
Why are Public Access to Defibrillation Programs needed?
Only 5-10% of those who suffer sudden cardiac arrest survive. Time is critical; survival rates decrease 7-10% with every minute that treatment is delayed. CPR is not enough; immediate defibrillation is the most effective treatment within the first few minutes of arrest.
7.
How long does certification last?
At a minimum, individuals should complete or review CPR/AED training every two years. The physician providing medical oversight may want members to complete or review training more frequently.
8. Who conducts training for AED use? Usually the same people who conduct CPR Training. Some CPR training is available through the DC Fire/EMS Training Academy.
9. How many are located in the District now? Hundreds, in every area of the city.
10. How does DC Fire/EMS use AEDs? All first responders in DC Fire/EMS are trained to use AEDs.  They are carried on all the medical response apparatus units.
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