What Is a Defibrillator?
A defibrillator - often called a Defib or AED (Automated External Defibrillator) - is a life-saving device used when somebody is in cardiac arrest.
The device analyses the heart rhythm and, if needed, delivers a shock to help the heart restart safely.
Every unit provides clear spoken instructions and guides you through each step of the process.
Public-access defibrillators are specifically designed for use by ordinary members of the public. You do not need medical training to use one.
You cannot accidentally harm someone with a defibrillator - the device will only deliver a shock if it detects that one is needed.
How Does It Work?
When the defibrillator is opened, it immediately begins giving spoken instructions. The adhesive pads are stored inside the device, with diagrams showing exactly where they should be placed on the patient’s chest.
Once the pads are placed onto the patient’s chest, the defibrillator automatically checks the heart rhythm and tells you exactly what to do next.
Modern defibrillators are designed to be simple, calm and easy to use - even in stressful situations.
The device will:
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Give spoken instructions
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Tell you when to start CPR
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Analyse the heart rhythm
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Instruct you if a shock is needed
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Only allow a shock if it is safe and appropriate
CPR should begin immediately and continue while the defibrillator analyses the heart rhythm and guides rescuers through the next steps.
While defibrillators are designed to be used without training, knowing what to expect can make all the difference in a stressful moment
Why Speed Matters - And Why We Can't Rely on Ambulances Alone
When somebody suffers a cardiac arrest, survival chances decrease rapidly with every minute that passes. Using a defibrillator within the first 3-5 minutes, alongside CPR, gives the best possible chance of survival.
Ambulance crews do an incredible job, but response times can vary - especially when services are under pressure. With over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in the UK each year, early action from nearby members of the public can make the difference.
That's why having publicly accessible defibrillators across Bristol is so important. Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, at any time - and a defibrillator nearby could save a life.
The Sixth Defibrillator We Installed Helped Save a Life
Defibs4Bristol installations have been used in genuine cardiac arrest emergencies across the city - helping save lives before ambulance crews could arrive.
One of the most notable incidents happened at The Sandringham pub in Brislington. After a customer suffered a cardiac arrest inside the pub, members of the public immediately began CPR while staff retrieved the nearby defibrillator installed outside the venue.
The defibrillator delivered two shocks before paramedics arrived, helping successfully resuscitate the casualty.
The incident highlighted how quickly ordinary members of the public can become lifesavers when a nearby defibrillator is available.
Over 30,000 Out-Of-Hospital Cardiac Arrests Happen In The UK Every Year
How Can I Find a Defibrillator?
If somebody is in cardiac arrest, call 999 immediately.
999 call handlers can direct you to the nearest available public defibrillator registered on The Circuit - the national defibrillator network used by emergency services. If safe to do so, another bystander may be asked to collect the device while CPR continues.
Because defibrillators need to be accessed quickly, having units installed close to homes, businesses and community spaces can make a vital difference.
The British Heart Foundation’s national database, The Circuit, helps map publicly accessible defibrillators across the UK. You can use their website to check where your nearest registered device is located.
Not all defibrillators on The Circuit are available around the clock, as some are located inside businesses or community buildings with restricted opening hours. It is worth checking whether you have a registered defibrillator nearby that remains accessible at all times.
