Researchers from the University of Southampton recently surveyed automated external defibrillators (AEDs) available for public use on the “Save a Life” AED locator mobile application in and around Southampton, UK, to determine the characteristics of AED signage. They evaluated 201 AEDs and found that 67 percent of sites had no signage, and when signage was provided, it was partially or severely obstructed in 41 percent of sites.
They concluded that current AED signage is poor and limits device effectiveness, since public awareness of the location of AEDs is impeded. They recommend promoting visible signage within the operational radius of each AED.
The study was reported in Resuscitation.