When you’re thinking about buying a defibrillator, it’s important to separate the myths from the facts.

Here we explore 5 common myths about owning a defibrillator. 

Fact: If the defibrillator you look after is not available for use when needed and the person who had the cardiac arrest died, you are not responsible for their death. This is an unfortunate situation, but sometimes it’s unavoidable.  

For example:

• The ambulance service may not have returned it after the last time it was used.
• There may have been a problem with the supply of replacement pads.
• The battery could have expired between regular checks.

A defibrillator increases the chance of survival, but it does not guarantee it. If the defibrillator was not available or not working, then there’s nothing you could have done.  

Fact: Defibrillators do not shock someone unless they detect an abnormal heart rhythm.  

You do not need training to use an automated external defibrillator. AEDs help someone without training to apply the pads and give CPR. Some AEDs also give real-time CPR feedback to help. Automatic defibrillators give a shock automatically, while semi-automatic defibrillators ask the user to press the 'shock' button.  

We'd always recommend getting some training in CPR and using a defibrillator. You can do this for free in 15 minutes with our online tool, RevivR. 

Fact: Coroners do not contact defibrillator owners as part of their investigation into a cardiac arrest. The coroner will typically contact the local ambulance service to ask for information about the resuscitation attempt.  

Do not worry if resuscitation did not work. What's important is that you tried. The emergency services hold the duty of care and will give the information needed for the coroner.

You do not have to keep any specific records to give information for a coroner’s investigation or inquest.  

Fact: CPR is an essential part in the chain of survival, while a defibrillator helps to get a heart into a normal rhythm, CPR helps to keep blood pumping to vital organs such as the brain. All public access defibrillators sold by BHF will provide guidance as you deliver CPR but CPR should begin before the defibrillator has been retrieved. A defibrillator may not immediately resuscitate a patient and you will be asked to deliver CPR between shocks. Brands such as Zoll and Cardiac Science have features such as CPR feedback, this uses sensors to ensure you are delivering high quality CPR.  The Zoll AED 3 also provides you with video instructions on screen.

You can be prepared for that day and learn CPR for free in 15 minutes with our online tool, RevivR. 

Fact: Theft and vandalism are extremely uncommon.

If you’re concerned about the security of your defibrillator you can get in touch with our team by email on defibenquiries@bhf.org.uk or by phone on 0300 3300 3322 (option 6). 

Next: How many defibrillators do you need? →