October is a good time to ask a simple question: if someone experienced a sudden cardiac arrest at your workplace, club or community space, would you know where the AED is?
For Shocktober, First Aid Supplies Australia is running a massive sale on AEDs storewide until 11:59 pm on 31 October 2026 (Melbourne time). It’s an opportunity to review your emergency response setup and choose a defibrillator that suits your people and your space.
What is sudden cardiac arrest?
Sudden cardiac arrest happens when the heart unexpectedly stops pumping blood effectively. A person may collapse, become unresponsive and not be breathing normally. It is a medical emergency. It is different from a heart attack, although a heart attack can sometimes lead to cardiac arrest.
What does an AED do?
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is designed to analyse the heart’s rhythm and tell the responder whether a shock is advised. It gives step-by-step voice prompts. An AED will not advise a shock unless it detects a rhythm it is designed to treat. You do not need to decide for yourself whether a shock is needed: turn it on and follow its instructions.
Remember: Call, Push, Shock
If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, the key message is “Call, Push, Shock”:
- Call — call Triple Zero (000).
- Push — start CPR, pushing hard and fast in the centre of the chest.
- Shock — use an AED if one is available and follow its instructions.
Ask someone else to fetch the AED if possible, and follow the emergency operator and AED prompts. Keep CPR going as instructed; getting an AED should not delay calling for help.
Make readiness part of the plan
An AED is one part of a response, not the whole plan. Make sure people know where it is and can reach it quickly, including outside normal business hours if your venue is used then. Check its status indicator, pads and battery against the manufacturer’s instructions, and keep up with servicing and staff training. If you’re replacing an older device, ask us about your options, including our AED trade-in.
Find the right AED for your setting
Whether you’re equipping an office, worksite, sporting club or community venue, our team can help you compare AED options and plan for ongoing upkeep. We also offer AED servicing and defibrillator rentals for organisations looking at different ways to stay prepared.
Shocktober ends 31 October 2026. Shop AEDs or get in touch with First Aid Supplies Australia for help choosing a device.