Many of our clients request to have alarms integrated for their AED cabinets. I generally prefer cabinets without alarms because I don't believe that they offer much benefit in regards to device security and could cause a delay calling 911.
AED cabinets with alarms have some benefits and risks. I made a quick list that goes through both:
Benefits:
- AED cabinet alarms make an audible noise (and/or flashing light) to make people in the area aware it has been opened. This may help signal other people to respond to the emergency and may also deter theft (calling attention to the person who opened it).
- More complex alarm systems may be wired into a building security system to create a general fire alarm or medical alarm notification if the box is opened. This is uncommon and somewhat pricey (especially the installation piece). False alarms can be triggered when the AED is checked or cabinet is unintentionally opened or bumped.
Risks:
- Knowledge of what the alarm actually does may be limited. Someone retrieving an AED may assume that the local alarm is notifying 911 which is not the case. They must still call 911 for help to arrive.
- If no one is around to hear the alarm, the AED may still get tampered with or stolen.
- Additional parts that require maintenance, batteries, and eventual replacement.
- Alarm fatigue (anecdotal) - when I open AED cabinets for inspections and it triggers the local alarm, it is rare for anyone to ask what I am doing so it may not get the attention that is intended. Shouting for help is likely to be a more attention gaining action.
- Many cases of theft that include video evidence do not result in the apprehension or conviction of the perpetrator and stolen AED units are still unlikely to be recovered. Here is a recent case of an AED being stolen in Hawaii caught on a security camera:
Indoor AED cabinets can be purchased with or without an alarm.
Aftermarket AED alarms can be added to our CE-TEK 4000 Outdoor AED Enclosures if desired. The locked version of the CE-TEK 4000 AED Enclosure device provides protection against theft and tamper and requires 911 notification for access so alarms won't provide much benefit for this unit.
