Start the New Year Right: Put Your Family’s Safety First

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

The beginning of a new year brings fresh goals, renewed energy, and a renewed focus on what matters most—our families. We set intentions to live healthier lives, spend more quality time together, and protect the people we love. One of the most meaningful ways to start the year right is by making family safety a priority.

Emergencies don’t wait for the “right time.” Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, without warning—even to people who seem healthy. When it happens, every second matters.

Most cardiac emergencies occur at home, not in public places. That means the first responders are often family members, friends, or caregivers. Having the right tools—and the confidence to use them—can make all the difference.

An Automated External Defibrillator is designed for everyday people, not medical professionals. With clear voice prompts and simple instructions, today’s AEDs empower bystanders to act quickly during those critical first moments.

While an AED is a lifesaving device, CPR training is equally essential. CPR helps maintain blood flow to the brain and heart until an AED can be used or emergency services arrive. When CPR and an AED are used together, survival rates increase dramatically.

CPR training gives family members:

• Confidence to act during an emergency
• The ability to recognize cardiac arrest quickly
• The skills to provide immediate, lifesaving care

Knowing what to do removes fear and hesitation—two things that can cost precious time during an emergency.  Owning an AED is about more than having a device on the wall—it’s about readiness, responsibility, and peace of mind. It’s knowing that if the unthinkable happens, you’re not helpless.

An AED:

• Can be used on adults and children (with pediatric pads or settings)
• Provides step-by-step guidance during use
• Works hand-in-hand with CPR to give your loved one the best chance at survival

Just like smoke detectors and first-aid kits, an AED is a proactive step toward creating a safer home and community.

Preparedness doesn’t stop with ownership. AEDs must be properly maintained, compliant, and ready to perform when needed. That’s where AED365 program management plays a vital role.

AED365 helps ensure:

• Pads and batteries are monitored and replaced before expiration
• Your AED program stays compliant with local and national guidelines
• Training records and readiness checks are organized and up to date

With AED365, families and organizations can rest easy knowing their AED program is actively managed—so when an emergency happens, the device is ready to save a life.

This year, choose a resolution that protects everyone you care about—children, parents, grandparents, and guests. Investing in CPR training, an AED, and a managed program like AED365 is an investment in life, preparedness, and love.

Starting the new year with your family’s safety in mind sends a powerful message: their lives are worth protecting.

As we step into this new year, let’s commit not only to healthier habits, but to smarter safety choices—because when it comes to your loved ones, being prepared is one resolution you’ll never regret.