Understanding AEDs
What is an AED and how does it work?
An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable device that analyzes a person's heart rhythm and, if it detects a life-threatening arrhythmia (like ventricular fibrillation), delivers an electrical shock to restore a normal rhythm. Modern AEDs are designed so anyone can use them — they give clear voice and visual instructions at every step, and some models are even fully automatic (no button to press). They do not shock a normal heart rhythm; the device makes all the clinical decisions.
Do I need medical training to use an AED?
No. AEDs are designed for bystander use with no medical training required. The device walks you through everything — placing the pads, staying clear, and when to deliver a shock. That said, CPR/AED certification training significantly improves confidence and effectiveness. We offer HSI-certified CPR/AED courses that can be bundled with any AED purchase — view our training options.
What's the difference between semi-automatic and fully automatic AEDs?
Semi-automatic: The AED analyzes the heart rhythm and tells you a shock is advised, but you press a button to deliver it. Fully automatic: The AED analyzes and delivers the shock automatically — no button press needed. This is ideal in situations where the responder may be panicked or untrained. Both types are equally effective. Fully automatic models are often preferred for public locations like lobbies, vessels, or schools where bystanders may have no training at all.
What does "Medical Direction" mean — and why is it included?
Medical Direction (AED-TS) is a physician-oversight service that is legally required in most states for AED programs. Through HSI, this service pairs your device with a licensed physician who reviews your AED program, provides a prescription for the device (required by law in some states), and offers protocol guidance. It's included in every HSI package we sell. Without it, deploying an AED in a business may not be legally compliant.
Buying the Right AED
Which AED should I choose for my business?
The right AED depends on your environment, budget, and who will be using it:
- Easiest for untrained staff: Philips HeartStart OnSite — user-paced prompts, no rush
- Best CPR feedback: ZOLL AED Plus — shows compression depth in real time
- Most compact / rugged (marine, outdoor, small spaces): HeartSine samaritan PAD 350P or 450P
- Video-guided rescue (best for high-anxiety environments): Defibtech Lifeline VIEW
- Fully automatic, proven workhorse: Defibtech Lifeline AED
Not sure? Contact us and we'll walk you through it.
What's included in the Business, School, and Mobile packages?
All packages include the AED unit and 1 year of HSI Medical Direction. Here's what differs:
- Mobile: Carry case + AED + Medical Direction. Best for first responders, marine vessels, or people who travel with their device.
- Business: Adds a wall sign and wall cabinet for fixed installation in a workplace.
- School: Includes pediatric pads or Pad-Pak for child/infant use — required for school environments serving children under 8 or 55 lbs.
All packages also include an HSI Response Kit with CPR mask and gloves.
Do you offer volume pricing for multiple units?
Yes. The more AEDs you purchase, the lower the per-unit price. Volume pricing is available for orders of 2 or more units across any mix of models. This is common for businesses covering multiple floors, schools with multiple buildings, or commercial fishing fleets. Contact us for a multi-unit quote.
Can I mix and match models in a multi-unit order?
Yes — you can order different models and packages in a single order. For example, a school might want a School Package for the main office and a Mobile Package for their athletic department. We'll put together a custom quote that covers the full order.
Do the prices include shipping to Sitka / rural Alaska?
Our listed prices are per-unit suggested sale prices before shipping. Alaska shipping costs vary by carrier and destination. We'll include shipping estimates in your quote when you request one. Most AEDs ship from the continental US and arrive within 5–10 business days to Sitka.
Ownership & Maintenance
How often do I need to replace the pads and battery?
It depends on the model:
- Philips HeartStart OnSite: Battery 4 years, Pads 2 years
- ZOLL AED Plus: Battery 5 years, CPR-D•padz 5 years
- HeartSine 350P / 360P / 450P: Pad-Pak (battery + pads combined) 4 years
- Defibtech Lifeline VIEW: Battery 4 years, Pads 2 years
- Defibtech Lifeline AED: Battery 5–7 years (model dependent), Pads 2 years
We can set up replacement reminders for you as part of our ongoing support program.
Will the AED tell me if something is wrong with it?
Yes — all AEDs we carry perform automatic self-tests (daily, weekly, or both depending on model) and have a status indicator light or display that shows whether the device is ready. A green light or flashing indicator means it's ready; a red or alarm indicator means attention is needed. The devices check battery level, pad connectivity, and internal circuitry.
What happens after the AED is used in an emergency?
After an AED is used, the device typically locks and records the event data (ECG, shock delivery, timestamps). You'll need to:
- Replace the electrode pads (single-use)
- Replace the battery if it was substantially depleted
- Submit an incident report to your state EMS office (required in most states)
- Download event data for medical review (HSI Medical Direction can assist)
Contact us and we'll walk you through post-event steps.
Is my business required by law to have an AED?
Requirements vary by state and industry. Alaska does not currently have a blanket mandate for all businesses, but many industries and property types are increasingly expected to have AEDs — including commercial fishing vessels, schools, gyms, large employers, and public buildings. Many insurance providers and commercial landlords also recommend or require them. We recommend having one regardless of legal requirement — cardiac arrest survival rates drop 7–10% every minute without defibrillation.
Does my staff need to be trained to use the AED?
Training is not legally required to use an AED — Good Samaritan laws in Alaska protect bystanders who attempt to use one in good faith. However, trained staff respond faster, with less hesitation, and perform better CPR. We offer HSI-certified CPR/AED training that can be bundled directly with your AED purchase. View training options.
Working With Island Fire & Safety
How do I buy an AED through you?
It's straightforward:
- Browse models on our AED Sales page and choose the package that fits your needs.
- Click "Request Quote" — this sends us the details.
- We'll contact you to confirm the order, finalize pricing (including any volume discount), and arrange payment and shipping.
- Your AED ships directly through HSI — typically 3–7 business days.
Can you help set up a full AED program — not just sell the device?
Absolutely — that's our specialty. A complete AED program includes device selection and placement, staff CPR/AED training, on-site installation and mounting, compliance documentation, and ongoing maintenance reminders. Contact us to get started.
Are you an authorized dealer? Will my warranty be valid?
Yes. We are an authorized HSI AED Sales Agent. All AEDs are purchased through HSI and shipped directly from the manufacturer or authorized distributor. Your device warranty is fully valid and registered through the manufacturer.
I already have an AED. Can you help with pads, batteries, or training?
Yes. We can source replacement pads and batteries for most major AED brands, and we offer HSI-certified CPR/AED training for teams who need recertification. Reach out and let us know what you have.