An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a device about the size of a fat laptop computer, or sometimes even smaller. It is designed to "read" what's happening in someone's heart and, using voice prompts, help someone press a button to shock a person in cardiac arrest back to life. AEDs won't shock someone who doesn't need to be shocked, and so they are designed for non-medical people to use, with minimal, if any, training. There are many different brands of AEDs, but they all work the same basic way. The Nashville PAD Program does not recommend a specific model.  
 
If you have an AED:    
Register your AED with Nashville's 9-1-1 service   

Important Facts:
- AEDs should be present at any location (fact from Circulation article).
- People should find out where the AEDs are wherever they live, work, play and pray.
- If an AED is purchased, there should be an adequate number of people trained in CPR/AED (usually 4 for a places of business or worship).
- By state law, every AED purchased must be registered with 9-1-1.
- When an AED is registered, a 9-1-1 operator can help rescuers find the nearest AED to save a life.