Sudden cardiac arrest suffered outside the hospital setting is responsible for approximately 350,000 deaths annually in the United States. Of those victims approximately 5,000 -7,000 are children.

Defibrillation is the only effective treatment for sudden cardiac arrest.

Early defibrillation can mean the difference between life and death, an active and healthy life or a vegetative state. An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a small, portable device that analyzes heart rhythms. It offers the user voice-prompted instructions and, if determined to be necessary, can deliver a potentially lifesaving shock to a victim in cardiac arrest. An AED will not deliver a shock to anyone who is not in sudden cardiac arrest. AEDs are easy to use, compact, battery-operated and lightweight.

Sequoia Healthcare District's HeartSafe Program makes AEDs available at a reduced rate or will donate equipment to eligible nonprofit organizations.