By Elizabeth Christensen
New York – A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that having Automated External Defibrillators, or AEDs, in public places saves lives.
The study found that 67% of those treated with an AED within 5 minutes of having a heart attack lived.
Red Cross Spokesman John Freeborn says the study makes the case for more AEDs in public places like malls, restaurants, and airports.
Freeborn says the devices are not foolproof, however, and that some training should be offered to employees.
The Red Cross does offer free training to companies and municipalities who buy AEDs. The class teaches proper AED use as well as traditional CPR.