AED theft: how big is the risk?

An AED is a life-saving device. That's why more and more organizations, businesses, and municipalities are choosing to install an AED in an easily accessible, public location . This way, everyone can use it in an emergency. However, installing an AED outdoors also carries a risk: theft.

Is AED theft common?

The thought that an AED could be stolen deters many people from installing one outdoors. Fortunately, this risk appears to be very small in practice. According to figures from sparenaed.nl Approximately 80,000 AEDs have been installed in the Netherlands. Fewer than 10 of these are stolen annually.

This means the chance of your AED being stolen is smaller than the chance of you suffering a cardiac arrest . And for the latter, you naturally want an AED accessible as quickly as possible.

Why does an AED get stolen?

The value of an AED can reach several thousand euros. This seems attractive to some thieves. However, stolen AEDs are rarely sold or used because the device is registered and requires regular maintenance . A stolen AED is often recovered within a short time.

How can you prevent theft?

AEDwijzer recommends AED cabinets without a lock. While the risk of theft is small, you'd naturally prefer to avoid it altogether. A lock can also cost valuable time in emergency situations.

Some tips for hanging your AED safely:

• Place the AED in a visible and accessible location.

• Make sure that the cabinet is properly anchored to the wall.

• Preferably choose a place with social control (for example near an entrance or busy street) or near a camera.

• Make agreements with the neighborhood or organization about supervision and maintenance.

Conclusion

The risk of AED theft is very low and shouldn't be a reason not to install one outdoors. The chance of someone near you suffering a cardiac arrest is far greater than the chance of your AED being stolen. By choosing proper housing and security, you ensure your AED is always available for what truly matters: saving lives .