Why are more and more Quebec families choosing to have an AED at home?

In Canada, approximately 60,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur each year. In these moments, there is no medical team or specialized equipment nearby. The first people on the scene are almost always loved ones, who must intervene in a context of intense stress and urgency.

One might think that you have to wait for help. However, the first few minutes are crucial, and some simple actions can really change the outcome.

It is precisely for this reason that more and more families are now choosing to have an automated external defibrillator (AED) at home. Because when facing a cardiac arrest, every minute counts.

Why is the time factor so important?

During a cardiac arrest, the chances of survival decrease by 7 to 10% per minute without intervention. After only 3 to 5 minutes, the brain can already suffer from a lack of oxygen which can lead to irreversible damage.

Even if emergency services are called immediately, the arrival time may exceed this critical window. In some regions of Quebec, nearly 45% of urgent calls exceed 10 minutes before an ambulance arrives (FPHQ – Quebec ambulance services).

These delays leave little room for maneuver. The first few minutes then become a key moment where rapid intervention can make all the difference.

Is an AED really designed to be used by everyone?

Contrary to what one might think, a defibrillator is not reserved for medical settings or healthcare professionals. It was designed to be used by the general public, without prior training.

The device:

• Automatically analyzes heart rhythm
• Gives clear, step-by-step voice instructions
• Only delivers a shock if necessary

You don't have any complex decisions to make: the device guides you through the entire intervention.
And it cannot be wrong, it only delivers a shock if the situation requires it.

Why consider an AED at home in Quebec?

A cardiac arrest can affect anyone: a spouse, a parent, a grandparent, a visitor, with or without known medical history, at any time.

Having an AED at home means choosing to be ready if an emergency situation arises. It means giving yourself the possibility to intervene where time is most precious, while help is on its way.

An AED is designed to guide the person intervening, step by step. It provides immediate assistance while help is on its way.
And sometimes, this preparation can make all the difference for the life of a loved one.

Are recertified AEDs a reliable and more affordable option in Quebec?

For some, the cost can be a barrier when considering purchasing an AED for home use. That's why there are now more accessible solutions, without compromising on safety or effectiveness.

Encore Series AEDs are recertified defibrillators, rigorously inspected, tested, and verified by professionals.
They meet the same performance and reliability standards as new devices.

Specifically, this means that:

• The device is fully tested and validated
• Essential components are inspected and replaced as needed
• The AED functions exactly like a new model
• It offers the same clear instructions and the same intervention capability in case of cardiac arrest

A recertified AED is not less effective: it is a reliable device, ready to save a life, but offered at a more affordable price.

How to be ready to act when every minute really counts?

A cardiac arrest doesn't wait.
Being able to intervene immediately can truly save the life of someone you love.

At Cardio Choc, our mission is to facilitate access to defibrillators, throughout Quebec and Canada, by offering solutions adapted to your reality, whether it's a new or recertified AED.

Discover our selection of new and recertified AEDs today and equip your home.