Our nation’s police officers are sworn to protect and serve. While this includes protecting the public from external threats, it can also involve intervening in the event of a sudden medical emergency. More than 350,000 American suffer from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) every year which means the need for automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in police cars and stations is paramount.
Why Police Need AEDs
Law enforcement officers often purchase automated external defibrillators in bulk because it allows them to equip every vehicle with its own defibrillation device. Officers spend most of their time addressing emergencies away from the station, so each vehicle requires its own emergency supplies.
For example, if you receive a call about a cardiac arrest but the paramedics are 10 minutes away, nearby units can provide the lifesaving CPR and electric shock with an AED. Every officer should have Basic Life Support training and access to a functioning AED because every second matters.
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can strike at any time. Though older males are the most common victims, it can happen to anyone. When it does happen, the victim will usually die within minutes without CPR and defibrillation. When life-saving measures are taken immediately, as many as 90% of SCA sufferers can recover. Are your officers ready to answer the call?
Selecting Defibrillators for Police Use
Certain considerations are important for every buyer. For example:
- Price
- Ease of Use
- Reputation
- Versatility/Features
For law enforcement in particular, there are two additional features that are especially important:
- Portability: Compact size and lightweight construction are important features, as police often need to carry these devices long distances at a quick pace.
- Durability: Police defibrillators can take a lot of abuse, so you need a device that’s sturdy and able to withstand being dropped, tossed aside, and subjected to the elements.
The Best AEDs for Police Use
Now that we’ve established why automated external defibrillators are essential for law enforcement, let’s break down some of the top products designed to meet the needs of these hardworking professionals.
Philips FRx
One of the most popular and versatile AEDs on the market, the Philips FRx is a marvel of engineering.
Why It’s Ideal for Police: Though it weighs just 3.5 pounds (with the battery installed) and measures only 2.4 x 7.1 x 8.9 inches, the FRx is one of the most rugged defibrillators on the market. It’s waterproof, dust-proof, and crush-resistant up to 500 pounds, so it’s guaranteed to withstand the most rigorous use.
Key Features: The FRx is equipped with audible CPR assistance and defibrillation instructions. Philips’ Life Guide system assists the user in performing the optimal number, rate, and depth of chest compressions. An included Infant/Child key allows the user to safely modify the voltage for children under 55 pounds without changing pads.
What’s Included: The FRx comes equipped with Philips Smart Pads II Electrode Pads and a Philips Battery Pack with a 4-year warranty. The device itself includes a full 8-year warranty.
Price: A Philips FRx Value Package is available for as little as $1,954. The Value Package includes the FRx and accessories plus a cabinet, a carrying case, a first responder kit, a wall poster, and a selection of AED signage.
HeartSine 350P
The HeartSine 350P is an economical choice that’s nevertheless packed with features.
Why It’s Ideal for Police: Weighing just 2.4 pounds, the HeartSine 350P is the smallest and lightest AED available, perfect for storing in small compartments and transporting long distances at a moment’s notice. Don’t be fooled by its compact design, though. The 350P has the highest durability rating of any automated external defibrillator, offering rugged construction and an IP56 Dust & Water Rating.
Key Features: The streamlined design features just two buttons: One to turn the device on and off, and one to administer an electric shock. It features audible CPR and defibrillation coaching, and it’s designed with on-screen visual cues for additional assurance. The LIFELINKcentral AED Program Manager tracks the readiness of the device, performs regular self-tests, and alerts the user about pending expirations or functionality issues.
What’s Included: The HeartSine 350P comes with a durable carrying case, a set of PAD PAK AED Pads, a battery, and an industry-leading 10-year warranty.
Price: The HeartSine 350P is available for as little as $1,350, making it one of the best values in the industry. There’s also a HeartSine 350P Value Package for just $50 more. It has everything that the base model includes, plus a first responder kit, a cabinet, signage, and more.
Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2
The LIFEPAK CR2 is one of the most user-friendly defibrillators on the market. Compact and affordable, it offers a range of specialized features accessible at the touch of a button.
Why It’s Ideal for Police: The CR2 is easy to use and suitable for any type of cardiac arrest emergency. It weighs just 4.5 pounds and has an IP55 rating[mfn]dsmt.com[/mfn] to ensure protection against dust and water. In addition, its dual-language capabilities are perfect for diverse, multilingual police forces. Just tap one button to toggle the language settings from English to Spanish.
Key Features: The CR2 features a simple, layered design with easy-to-follow on-screen prompts. The state-of-the-art cprINSIGHT™ analysis technology makes it the only AED of its kind to offer shockable rhythm analysis during chest compressions—the device automatically determines the optimal rate of shock. Audible CPR and compression coaching are provided, and a Child Mode button instantly adjusts the shock for patients under 55 pounds.
What’s Included: This automated external defibrillator comes equipped with one set of pads, a Charge-Pak Battery, and a Quick Start Tool Kit With Training Demo. It also includes a 5-year warranty.
Price: The Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2 is available for $1,940. You can also purchase a Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2 Value Package for just $40 more. It has everything included with the base model plus a first responder kit, a cabinet, signage, and more.
Recommended AED Accessories for Police
In addition to the device itself, there are certain accessories that no police unit should be without. These include:
- A rugged case: In a fast-paced environment, an AED can take a beating. Even if you’re using the most rugged defibrillator on the market, you still want to protect it with a hard, secure case that travels well. Look for rigid to semi-rigid cases that have ample room for accessories. For example:
- A wall-mounted cabinet: If the AED is going to be stored in the police station, a sturdy cabinet is essential. This provides protection for the unit and ensures that the AED remains in one secure, central location for emergencies. Some cabinets have a built-in alarm that can even be integrated into the facility’s main security system.
- AED signage: Wall posters, decals, and inspection tags should be present in every station. Posters provide valuable instructions for emergency protocols while inspection tags alert passersby of the most recent inspections and help your facility to remain in compliance.
Protect and Serve With an AED
Whether you need a single defibrillation device or are interested in bulk orders, we can accommodate orders of any size and requirement. We’re an authorized distributor for all six FDA-approved manufacturers, and we offer a one-year, low-price guarantee. Explore the selection, and get free shipping on all orders over $99.
Information Sources
