Can I store a defibrillator outdoors in freezing conditions?
Yes, you can store an Automated External Defibrillator outdoors, provided it is stored correctly according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Your AED should be stored in a temperature controlled enclosure/cabinet keeping your AED within the manufacturers recommended operating temperature guidelines, typically 0-50 degrees celsius for most models. Storage temperature guidelines are lower and not intended for operational AED’s.
As the weather gets colder this winter it is important to regularly check your defibrillator and external cabinet to ensure they are functioning and ready for use in an emergency. Any defibrillator kept outside in a public access cabinet should be stored at the correct operating temperature and free of damp/moisture. Most outdoor AED cabinets are heated and connected to the mains to provide temperature control. We strongly recommend that unheated cabinets are NOT used outdoors as they do not maintain the correct operating temperature in freezing conditions. To prolong the life of your AED and ensure it is ready for use in an emergency, it should NOT be stored below freezing or above 60 degrees celsius (please refer to the manufacturer’s handbook for guidance on your specific model)
Can I store my AED in a vehicle? You can store an AED in a car/van, etc but again, maintaining temperature is important. The vehicle passenger compartment is usually warmer than the boot in winter when the vehicle is in use. If temperatures are likely to fall below freezing, it is advisable to take the AED indoors. In summer, remember that a car left in the sun will get much hotter than the outside temperature, so you may need to remove it from the vehicle again.
Many popular AED’s on the market conduct regular daily or weekly self tests. In some cases, if the AED temperature falls below 0 degrees celsius the unit might alert you by beeping or chirping. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance and bring the unit indoors to warm up.
If you need advice on storing your AED, contact us for assistance on 0161 399 1365.
