Defibrillators in Public Places

In December 2012, the Manitoba Government finalized regulations under The Defibrillator Public Access Act that will require automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to be installed in high-traffic public places such as gyms, arenas, community centres, golf courses, schools and airports by January 31, 2014. It will also require AEDs to be registered so 911 dispatchers can assist those trying to care for a cardiac arrest victim to find the nearest AED and guide them through the proper use of the machine.

To assist with the financial planning required to install defibrillators in public places, more than 13 months notice is being provided. Also, the Manitoba Government has provided funding to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Manitoba for over 1,000 free defibrillators for public places designated by the Act. The Heart and Stroke Foundation will start accepting applications on January 7, 2013. In partnership with the Manitoba Government, the Heart and Stroke Foundation has also negotiated 30-40% discounts for some defibrillators for those facilities that do not receive a free AED. More information on how to apply for a free defibrillator and how to receive a discount is available at the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

To find out more about which public places will be required to have an AED on-site, the type of signage required, how to register an AED with 911 and how to comply with other new requirements under The Defibrillator Public Access Act, please read the Questions and Answers.