• AEDs in public places can save lives.heart image by jim from Fotolia.com
  
  An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that nearly anyone can use to help someone suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. AEDs analyze the victim's heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock to help his or her heart return to a more normal rhythm. An AED uses voice commands to instruct the user in how to use it. The State of Michigan has passed several potentially lifesaving laws regarding the placement and use of AEDs.
  
  

Good Samaritan AED usage

• In 1999, Michigan extended its "Good Samaritan" law to protect bystanders from liability when they use an AED to help a cardiac arrest victim. Previously, the law applied only to people performing CPR and first aid. "Good Samaritan" laws like this one encourage bystanders to help in medical emergencies without fear of lawsuits.
  
  

AEDs in Health Clubs

• Michigan's legislative Act 23 of 2006 requires that health clubs make AEDs available in locations accessible to anyone. Health clubs that don't comply with the law can be fined. The bill also requires health clubs to employ at least one person trained to use AEDs.
  
  

Bystanders Not Required to Use AEDs

• Michigan's Act 23 of 2006 states that bystanders are not required to use AEDs, even if they have the opportunity to do so.
  
  

Michigan Student Athlete Cardiac Awareness Month

• In March and April 2010, both houses of the Michigan legislature passed a resolution declaring April 2010 to be Michigan Student Athlete Cardiac Awareness Month. The resolution recognized at least 41 students' deaths by cardiac arrest and at least two lives saved by AEDs placed in schools. It also urged, but did not require, the state's board of education to provide rules for training students and staff to use AEDs.