Shockingly Simple: Restart a Heart with an AED campaign

Every year more than 300,000 Americans die from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) – a condition in which the heart unexpectedly stops beating. It can happen anywhere, to anyone, at any time, even to those with optimal heart health. And when it occurs – seconds count.

In fact, studies have shown a 70-80% chance of survival if an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is used within minutes on an SCA victim. For many victims, a shock from an AED is the only chance for survival.

But, AEDs don't work if we can't find them.

Today less than 1,000 organizations have registered AEDs with the EMS Division of Public Health – Seattle & King County. Registering an AED helps 911 dispatchers match the location of SCA victims with the nearest AED. When seconds count – locating the nearest life-saving AED can be a matter of life and death.

The Shockingly Simple campaign is aimed at increasing purchases and registration of AEDs by businesses and organizations in Seattle and King County. By purchasing and registering an AED, businesses can easily provide a greater chance of survival for victims of sudden cardiac arrest.

Think of an AED like a fire extinguisher or smoke alarm - crucial for any business. Is your business prepared?

Register your AED

Shockingly Simple Toolkit

Survivor Story: Bob McCleskey, CEO of Sellen Construction

"The Seattle Fire Department is eager to support the Shockingly Simple campaign and the effort to encourage the placement of AEDs in public settings where a cardiac arrest is likely to occur. AEDs save lives and I strongly advocate for citizens to learn CPR and to willingly use an AED in the minutes before the fire department can arrive. Seattle and King County communities will benefit in a huge way by having additional AEDs in public places."

— Chief Gregory Dean, Seattle Fire Department

"Heart disease is the number 1 killer- an epidemic in the US. The reality is that every person will be affected at some point in their life. Either personally or a loved one. Planting the seed within our communities about heart health, teaching hands only CPR and learning how to use an AED will empower change. I am joining the "Shockingly Simple - Restart a Heart" campaign because I know that working together we will help improve sudden cardiac arrest outcomes in our communities."

— Darla Varrenti, Executive Director, Nick of Time Foundation

"Every second counts when somebody is experiencing a cardiac event. Actions taken in the first few minutes during a cardiac arrest can make the difference between life and death. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) have made it possible for the public to provide defibrillation before our first firefighters arrive. Public access AEDs are improving the public's ability to save lives."

— Bellevue Fire Chief, Mike Eisner

"Thank you for doing this critically important project."

— Jan Teague, President/CEO, Washington Retail Association