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AED Program
Supporting access to AEDs on campus
AEDs are portable devices that can help during a sudden cardiac emergency. In an emergency, call 911 immediately and follow instructions from emergency responders and the AED device.
Cardiac Emergency?
Call 911 immediately if there is an emergency, immediate danger, fire, medical emergency, crime in progress, or urgent threat to safety.
For non-emergency campus safety assistance, contact Western Special Constable Service at 519-661-3300.
About the AED Program
Western’s AED Program supports automated external defibrillator access, awareness, and readiness across campus.
What is an AED?
An automated external defibrillator, or AED, is a portable device that can be used during a sudden cardiac emergency.
AEDs provide voice prompts and visual instructions to help guide a responder through the steps during an emergency.
Program purpose
The AED Program supports the placement, awareness, inspection, and readiness of AEDs in campus buildings and spaces.
This helps improve access to AEDs and supports emergency preparedness across the Western community.
What to do in a cardiac emergency
If someone may be experiencing a sudden cardiac emergency, call 911 immediately, get help, and use the nearest AED as soon as possible.
1. Call 911
Call 911 immediately and follow the instructions provided by the emergency dispatcher.
2. Get the nearest AED
Send someone nearby to bring the closest AED to the person experiencing the emergency.
3. Turn on the AED
Open the AED and turn it on. The device will provide voice prompts and instructions.
4. Follow instructions
Follow the instructions from 911, emergency responders, and the AED device until help arrives.
AEDs on campus
AEDs are located in many campus buildings and are intended to be accessible during a sudden cardiac emergency.
Look for AED signage
AEDs are commonly identified with AED signs, wall cabinets, or emergency equipment markings in public or shared building areas.
Know your area
Students, staff, faculty, and visitors are encouraged to be aware of AED locations in the buildings and spaces they use most often.
Call 911 first
During a cardiac emergency, call 911 immediately. If others are nearby, ask someone to bring the closest AED while emergency help is contacted.
Using an AED
AEDs are designed to provide clear instructions during an emergency. The device will guide the responder through the process.
AEDs provide instructions
When an AED is opened and turned on, it provides voice prompts and visual instructions to guide the responder.
Follow the device prompts carefully and continue to follow instructions from 911 and emergency responders.
You do not need to diagnose the emergency
The AED will assess whether a shock is advised and will provide instructions based on what it detects.
Stay with the person, keep following the prompts, and continue until emergency responders arrive.
Program support and maintenance
The AED Program supports AED readiness through placement, awareness, inspection, maintenance coordination, and campus communication.
Placement and awareness
AED placement and awareness help students, staff, faculty, and visitors identify where AEDs are available in campus buildings and shared spaces.
Inspection and readiness
AEDs require regular checks and maintenance coordination so devices, cabinets, batteries, pads, signage, and related supplies remain ready for emergency use.
Reporting concerns
Report AED concerns, missing supplies, cabinet damage, alarms, or device issues so they can be reviewed and addressed by the appropriate campus partners.