AED Polices Across Canada

AED Polices Across Canda

On this page you will find a general overview of what the AED Polices across Canada. It is important to note that this is just a general overview of the polices and may not be fully up to date as things can change. Please take this a a general overview and do your own research if you want more information.

North West Territories

In the Northwest Territories (NWT), there are currently no mandatory regulations requiring the installation or registration of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public spaces or workplaces. However, the territory encourages the use of AEDs through supportive policies and programs.

Legal Framework

The NWT does not have specific legislation mandating AEDs in public or workplace settings. The Automated Defibrillator Act (Bill 69), enacted in 2009, provides civil liability protection for individuals who use an AED in good faith and without compensation. This encourages bystanders to assist during cardiac emergencies without fear of legal repercussions.

Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program

The NWT Health and Social Services Authority (NTHSSA) operates the Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program, which aims to increase the availability of AEDs in public spaces. The program includes:

Registration: Encouraging facilities to register their AEDs to facilitate quick access during emergencies.
Training: Providing training for staff and community members on the proper use of AEDs and CPR.
Maintenance: Ensuring regular maintenance and testing of AEDs to keep them operational.

This program is voluntary, and participation is encouraged but not mandated by law.

New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are not legally required in public spaces, but there are supportive programs and legislation that encourage their use and accessibility.

Automated Defibrillator Act (Bill 69)

The Automated Defibrillator Act (Bill 69), enacted in 2009, provides a legal framework for the use of AEDs in New Brunswick. Key provisions include:

Civil Liability Protection: Individuals who use an AED in good faith and without compensation are protected from civil liability, encouraging more people to assist in emergencies.
Regulatory Definitions: The Act defines what constitutes an "automated defibrillator" and outlines its intended use, ensuring clarity in its application.

Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program

Operated by Medavie Health Services New Brunswick, the Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program aims to increase the availability of AEDs in public spaces. Key aspects include:

Registration: AEDs are registered with the Medical Communications Management Centre, allowing emergency dispatchers to direct 911 callers to the nearest AED.
Maintenance: Facilities are responsible for maintaining their AEDs, ensuring they are operational when needed.
Accessibility: AEDs are placed in visible and accessible locations to facilitate quick use during emergencies.

AED Subsidy Program

To reduce financial barriers, the AED Subsidy Program, funded in part by the New Brunswick Department of Health, offers:

Financial Assistance: Covers up to 75% of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $3,500.
Eligible Expenses: Includes the AED unit, accessories, registration fees, and maintenance costs.
Priority Locations: Community service/non-profit groups, educational centers, athletic/recreation facilities, high-rise buildings, ferries, and provincial/nature parks.

AEDs in Schools

Heart & Stroke New Brunswick has facilitated the placement of AEDs in every school across the province, enhancing safety for students and staff.

Summary

While New Brunswick does not mandate AEDs in all public spaces, the combination of supportive legislation, accessible programs, and financial assistance encourages the installation and use of AEDs, aiming to improve survival rates in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.

Manitoba

Overview

The Defibrillator Public Access Act (C.C.S.M. c. D22) is the main legislation.
It came into force January 1, 2013. Premises designated under the Act had until January 31, 2014 to install AEDs.

What the Law Requires

Here are what premises designated by the legislation must do:

Install AEDs in public places that are “designated premises.” These are places where the public frequent or gather, especially places with high traffic or high risk.
Register the AEDs
- Once installed, the AED must be registered with Shared Health (as the registrar under the Act).
- The registry is shared with 911 dispatchers so they can advise callers of nearest AEDs.
- If an AED is moved or removed, the owner must notify Shared Health within 15 days.
Accessibility
- The device must be installed so that it is easily and quickly accessible by the public; visible, in a common area, without needing staff assistance.
- The “three-minute rule”: there must be “one or more” AEDs so that any point on the premises (except certain outdoor areas/parcels defined in regulation) is within a three-minute return time to the victim.
- The location should facilitate rapid public access. Signs must be used to alert public to presence and location of AEDs.
Type of AEDs acceptable
- Must be a semi-automated external defibrillator approved by Health Canada.
- Must be suitable for adult and children use; having extra pads.
- Must have maintenance indicators (e.g. blinking light, chirping sound) to signal need for service.
Signage
- Signs required at building entrance(s), near the AED, and wherever needed so people know it's available.
- Signs must have contrasting colours, include graphical heart with lightning bolt, text “AED” or “Automated External Defibrillator”, and indicate location of AED if sign is not directly beside device. Bilingual/French/English permitted.
Maintenance / Inspection
- Monthly inspections required, in accordance with manufacturer guidelines.
- Inspection must be logged (inspection tag, inspection record), records kept for at least 12 months.
Training
- The law does not require special training to use an AED. Anyone able to read its prompts and follow instructions may use it.
Liability / Protection
- Protection from civil liability for owners/occupiers of premises who make an AED available, and for users who act in good faith.

Which Places are “Designated Premises”

Here are some of the types of public places that are required under the law to have AEDs:

Gyms, fitness clubs, studios.
Community centres – those with indoor group physical-activity programs (≥20 hours per week or majority of weeks in year) or big enough membership.
Golf courses (club houses)
Indoor public swimming pools; indoor arenas; curling clubs
Schools (all levels), and where applicable in colleges/universities (especially athletic facilities)
Airports, train & bus terminals (for passengers gathering before boarding or after disembarking)
Casinos; homeless shelters; major shopping centres; museums, cultural centres; some major public buildings like the Legislative Building, court houses, convention centres.

British Columbia

Existing AED-/Health-Emergency Requirements in BC

Schools: AEDs & Naloxone Kits Required
- BC’s Ministry of Education has mandated that all schools must have AEDs and naloxone kits.
- Deadline: Secondary schools by end of 2025; Elementary and middle schools by September 8, 2026.
- Also, school boards must have policies for “responding to unexpected health emergencies,” ensuring life-saving first aid tools are readily accessible and maintained.
Curriculum / Training
- CPR / AED training is being integrated in BC schools’ curriculum—starting for example in Grade 10 gym classes, along with overdose prevention.
BC PAD Program & Public Access AEDs
- There is a program (“Public Access to Defibrillation,” BC PAD) aimed at increasing publicly accessible AEDs.
- The “Start Me Up BC” campaign (by St. John Ambulance BC & Yukon) is placing AED stands in high-traffic public places (parks, transit hubs, etc.), with naloxone and first aid kits also included.
Pilot Projects
- BC government announced pilot projects in communities (e.g. Prince George) to place clearly marked AEDs in accessible public areas and register them on apps such as PulsePoint Respond so people trained in CPR are alerted and can locate nearby AEDs.

Proposed / Pending Legislation (“Defibrillator Public Access Act”)

There is (or has been) a private member’s bill, or proposed Bill(s), titled Defibrillator Public Access Act, which would formalize many of the AED requirements. Key components proposed include:

Owners of “designated public premises” being required to install AEDs.
The AEDs must be maintained, tested, be available for public use.
Posting of signs about the location and use of AEDs.
Registration of AEDs with a registrar, including notifying when AEDs are installed, moved, or removed.
The definition of “designated premises” (publicly accessible premises) to be set by regulation.

Issues / Gaps & What’s Changing

Before the mandates for schools, there was no general legislated requirement for AEDs to be in all schools.
Funding and cost concerns have been raised by school districts about meeting the new AED / naloxone mandates.
The proposed law would provide clarity on things like signage, maintenance, registration, and civil liability.

Ontario

Ontario has established comprehensive policies to enhance public access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), aiming to improve survival rates in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. Here's an overview of the current legislative framework and initiatives:

Legislative Framework: Bill 141

Ontario's Defibrillator Registration and Public Access Act, 2020 (Bill 141) mandates several key requirements for owners of designated public premises:

Installation & Visibility: AEDs must be installed in designated public areas and be easily accessible.
Signage: Clear signage indicating the location of AEDs is required.
Maintenance & Testing: Regular maintenance and testing are mandatory to ensure AEDs are operational.
Registration: AEDs must be registered with a central registry, allowing emergency responders to locate them quickly during emergencies.
Training: Staff at these premises must receive training on the use of AEDs and CPR.

Construction Sites

Under the Working for Workers Seven Act, as of May 23, 2025, construction projects in Ontario that are expected to last three months or longer and employ 20 or more workers are required to have AEDs on-site. This regulation aims to enhance safety on construction sites by ensuring immediate access to defibrillation in case of cardiac emergencies.

Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Programs

Various regions in Ontario have implemented PAD programs to increase public access to AEDs:

Peel Region: The PAD program aims to make it easier for residents to provide CPR and defibrillation before paramedics arrive.
Region of Waterloo: The program has registered 436 AEDs within public facilities, schools, and workplaces, providing CPR training and maintenance services.
Simcoe County: Over 950 AEDs have been deployed in schools, arenas, community centres, and municipal buildings through the PAD program.

Next Steps for Compliance

To ensure compliance with Ontario's AED policies:

Assess Premises: Determine if your location qualifies as a designated public premise under Bill 141.
Install AEDs: Ensure AEDs are installed in accessible locations with clear signage.
Register AEDs: Register your AEDs with the provincial registry.
Train Staff: Provide training for staff on the use of AEDs and CPR.
Maintain Equipment: Regularly test and maintain AEDs to ensure they are operational.

Quebec

Quebec's policies regarding Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are evolving, with significant developments in public education, school safety, and emergency preparedness. Here's an overview of the current landscape:

AEDs in Public Schools

In June 2024, the Quebec government announced a $3 million initiative to equip all public schools—including elementary, high schools, vocational training centers, and adult education centers—with AEDs. Prior to this, only 93% of high schools had AEDs, while only 51% of elementary schools and 70% of adult education centers were equipped. The goal is to achieve 100% coverage to enhance student and staff safety

AED-Québec Registry & Public Access

Quebec does not yet have legislation mandating the installation of AEDs in public or private spaces. However, the AED-Québec registry, managed by the Jacques-de Champlain Foundation, has registered over 8,600 devices across the province. This registry is integrated with 911 dispatch centers, allowing first responders to access real-time AED locations during emergencies. The AED-Québec app, available to the public, helps locate nearby defibrillators and encourages citizens to register devices not yet listed

Legal Framework for AED Use

Under Quebec's Act to Ensure the Quality of the Health and Social Services, individuals trained in CPR and AED use are legally permitted to operate AEDs in emergencies, provided no first responder is present. This aligns with the province's commitment to public access to defibrillation, though it stops short of mandating widespread AED installation

AEDs in Emergency Services

Some municipal police forces in Quebec have equipped their vehicles with AEDs. For instance, the Laval Police Service has outfitted all 70 of its patrol cars with AEDs, resulting in 14 lives saved within the first two years of the program

Ongoing Advocacy and Future Legislation

Advocacy groups, including the Jacques-de Champlain Foundation and Heart & Stroke, continue to push for provincial legislation to mandate AEDs in public places and ensure their registration in the AED-Québec registry. Despite the government's 2022 Action Plan to deploy 1,000 AEDs, progress has been slow, with only 100 installed in Desjardins and Banque Nationale ATMs as of late 2024

Summary

Public Schools: All will be equipped with AEDs by 2025.
Public Access: No mandatory installation; however, the AED-Québec registry and app facilitate access.
Legal Use: Trained individuals may use AEDs in emergencies when no first responder is present.
Emergency Services: Some police forces have AED-equipped vehicles.
Legislative Action: Advocacy continues for mandatory AED installation and registration.

Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia has established several policies and initiatives to enhance public access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and to promote their use in emergencies. Here's an overview of the current landscape:

Defibrillators Act

The Defibrillators Act mandates that owners of designated premises—such as public buildings, municipal units, and certain privately owned buildings—ensure that one or more AEDs are installed and accessible for public use. These AEDs must be registered with the Registrar and maintained in accordance with the regulations. Additionally, signage indicating the exact location and usage instructions must be displayed.

AEDs in Public Schools

In March 2021, the Nova Scotia government invested $700,000 to equip all public schools with AEDs. This initiative aims to enhance student and staff safety by ensuring that life-saving devices are readily available in educational settings.

EHS AED Registry Program

The Emergency Health Services (EHS) AED Registry Program connects Nova Scotians and volunteer community responders with AEDs in the community. By registering AEDs through the program, individuals can help create a database that notifies volunteer responders of the nearest AED during a cardiac emergency. The registry is integrated with the Medical Communication Centre, allowing dispatchers to advise responders of nearby AEDs when conditions are met.

Volunteer Community Responder Program

Through the GoodSAM Responder App, Nova Scotians can volunteer as community responders. Upon registration, responders receive notifications of nearby cardiac arrests and directions to the incident location, along with information on the closest AEDs. This initiative aims to improve survival rates by enabling trained individuals to provide immediate assistance during cardiac emergencies.

Legal Protections

The Nova Scotia Volunteer Protection Act offers legal protection to individuals who use an AED in good faith during an emergency, provided they do not act with gross negligence. This legislation encourages bystanders to assist in cardiac emergencies without fear of legal repercussions.

Workplace Safety

While there is no specific legislation mandating AEDs in workplaces, the Occupational Health and Safety Act encourages employers to consider the installation of AEDs, particularly in high-risk environments. Employers are urged to assess the need for AEDs as part of their workplace safety programs.

Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island (PEI) has established several policies and initiatives to enhance public access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and to promote their use in emergencies. Here's an overview of the current landscape:

PEI AED Registry Program

The PEI AED Registry is a voluntary online database managed by the provincial government. It allows community organizations, businesses, and institutions to register their publicly accessible AEDs. This registry enables 9-1-1 dispatchers to direct callers to the nearest available AED during a cardiac emergency. While registration is encouraged, it is not mandatory. AED owners are responsible for ensuring their devices are properly maintained and accessible during the hours specified in the registry

AEDs in Educational Institutions

The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) has equipped its campus with AEDs, including mobile kits stationed at key locations such as athletic fields. All AEDs are registered with the PEI AED Registry Program, facilitating quick access during emergencies. Designated individuals are trained to transport mobile AEDs to the scene of an incident, ensuring timely intervention.

Workplace Safety Guidelines

Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, PEI encourages employers to assess the need for AEDs in workplaces, particularly in high-risk environments. While not mandatory, the installation and maintenance of AEDs are recommended to enhance employee safety. Employers are advised to ensure that AEDs are accessible and that staff are trained in their use.

Public Access and Community Initiatives

PEI promotes the installation of AEDs in public spaces, such as recreation facilities and community centers, to increase public access to life-saving devices. For instance, grants have been provided to assist with the purchase and installation of AEDs in various facilities across the province.

Legal Protections

PEI provides legal protection to individuals who use an AED in good faith during an emergency. This protection encourages bystanders to assist in cardiac emergencies without fear of legal repercussions, provided they do not act with gross negligence.

Summary

Public Access: Voluntary registration of AEDs is encouraged through the PEI AED Registry Program.
Workplace Safety: Employers are encouraged to assess the need for AEDs in high-risk environments.
Educational Institutions: Institutions like UPEI have equipped their campuses with AEDs and registered them with the PEI AED Registry.
Community Initiatives: Grants have been provided to install AEDs in public facilities.
Legal Protections: Individuals using AEDs in good faith during emergencies are legally protected.

Manitoba

Manitoba has established comprehensive legislation to enhance public safety through the mandatory installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in certain public places. This initiative aims to improve survival rates for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest by ensuring rapid access to life-saving equipment.

Key Requirements Under Manitoba's AED Legislation

1. Mandatory Installation in Designated Public Places

As of January 31, 2014, the Defibrillator Public Access Act mandates that owners of designated public premises install AEDs. These premises include high-traffic areas such as gyms, arenas, community centers, golf courses, schools, airports, and transit stations. The goal is to ensure that AEDs are accessible within a three-minute response time in emergencies.

2. Registration with Shared Health

Upon installation, AEDs must be registered with Shared Health, Manitoba’s provincial health authority. This registry allows 911 dispatchers to provide accurate information to callers about the nearest AED during emergencies. Registrations must be completed within 30 days of installation, and any changes to AED status must be reported within 15 days.

3. Signage and Public Awareness

Facilities are required to display clear signage indicating the presence and location of AEDs. Signs must be placed at facility entrances, near the AED itself, and in other strategic locations to ensure visibility. The signage should feature a heart with a lightning bolt and the text "AED" or "Automated External Defibrillator.”

4. Maintenance and Inspection

AEDs must undergo monthly inspections following the manufacturer's guidelines. Inspection records should be maintained for at least 12 months. This ensures the devices are operational and ready for use in emergencies.

5. Liability Protection

The legislation provides civil liability protection to both the owners of premises where AEDs are available and individuals who use the devices in good faith during emergencies. This legal safeguard encourages prompt action without fear of legal repercussions.

6. Training and Use

While formal training is not a legal requirement, individuals who can read and follow the AED's voice prompts can operate the device. However, training in CPR and AED use is recommended to enhance effectiveness during emergencies.

Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are not legally mandated in public spaces or workplaces. However, both public health initiatives and workplace safety regulations strongly encourage their use to enhance emergency response capabilities.

Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Program

The Saskatchewan Health Authority operates the Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Program, which supports organizations in becoming registered AED sites. This program offers:

Free Registration: Organizations can register their AEDs to make them publicly accessible.
Reimbursement: Eligible sites may receive reimbursement for used defibrillator pads.
Community Network: Registered AEDs are included in a network accessible to local emergency services and the public.

To register an AED, complete the PAD Program Registration Form.

Workplace First Aid Regulations

Under Saskatchewan’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (2020), employers are required to provide first aid training and supplies based on workplace risk assessments. While AEDs are not mandatory, they are recommended, especially in high-risk environments.

Key requirements include:

Risk Assessment: Employers must assess workplace hazards to determine appropriate first aid measures.
First Aid Kits: Kits must meet CSA Z1220-17 standards and be accessible during work hours.
Training: Employees should be trained in CPR and AED use, with certifications renewed every three years.
AED Maintenance: If an AED is provided, it must be CSA-approved, regularly inspected, and stored according to manufacturer guidelines.

For detailed information, refer to the First Aid in Saskatchewan Workplaces Guide.

Community Initiatives

Saskatoon Heart Safe Program: This community initiative has equipped over 1,300 locations with AEDs, aiming to make them as accessible as fire extinguishers. The program has been instrumental in saving lives by ensuring AEDs are available in public spaces.

Summary

Public Spaces: No legal requirement for AEDs; registration is voluntary but encouraged.
Workplaces: AEDs are recommended, particularly in high-risk settings, but not mandated.
Training & Maintenance: Essential for effective use and compliance with safety standards.

Alberta

In Alberta, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are not mandated by law in public spaces or workplaces. However, both public health initiatives and workplace safety regulations strongly encourage their use to enhance emergency response capabilities.

Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Program

The Alberta Health Services (AHS) Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Program promotes increased survival from sudden cardiac arrest by encouraging communities and supporting the public to:

Make AEDs available in publicly accessible areas: Encourages organizations to place AEDs in locations where people gather.
Register AEDs with the free AHS Heart-Safe.ca database: Allows emergency services to know where AEDs are located.
Share AED locations with 9-1-1 Emergency Medical Services Dispatch: Ensures dispatchers can direct responders to the nearest AED.
Take Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training: Enhances the effectiveness of AED use.
Use an AED during a medical emergency: Guides individuals in effectively utilizing AEDs in emergencies.

The program offers a free provincial database to register AEDs, provides email notifications for battery or pad expiry dates, and sends monthly AED inspection reminders.

Workplace First Aid Regulations

Under Alberta's Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) legislation, employers are required to provide first aid training and supplies based on workplace risk assessments. While AEDs are not mandatory, they are recommended, especially in high-risk environments. Key requirements include:

Risk Assessment: Employers must assess workplace hazards to determine appropriate first aid measures.
First Aid Kits: Kits must meet CSA Z1220-17 standards and be accessible during work hours.
Training: Employees should be trained in CPR and AED use, with certifications renewed every three years.
AED Maintenance: If an AED is provided, it must be CSA-approved, regularly inspected, and stored according to manufacturer guidelines.

The Alberta College of Pharmacy encourages all pharmacy teams to carry an AED machine in their pharmacy and register with the Public Access to Defibrillation (PAD) program. PAD is a program that provides a map of all registered AED machines within Alberta and allows 9-1-1 operators to direct people towards the nearest AED machine when someone is suffering from a sudden cardiac episode.

Community Initiatives

Edmonton International Airport (YEG): Equipped with 80 AEDs throughout the terminal, ensuring accessibility for both staff and the public.

Summary

Public Spaces: No legal requirement for AEDs; registration is voluntary but encouraged.
Workplaces: AEDs are recommended, particularly in high-risk settings, but not mandated.
Training & Maintenance: Essential for effective use and compliance with safety standards.

Yukon

In Yukon, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are not legally required in public spaces or most workplaces. However, there are specific regulations and recommendations that encourage their use to enhance emergency preparedness and response.

Workplace Requirements

Under Yukon’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, employers must:

Assess Workplace Risks: Evaluate potential hazards to determine appropriate first aid measures.
Provide Adequate First Aid: Ensure that first aid equipment, supplies, and facilities are clean, dry, complete, and maintained in accordance with the regulations.
Maintain Accessibility: Keep first aid supplies in a visible and accessible location during all working hours.
Ensure Proper Training: Employers must ensure that first-aid attendants are properly trained and that workers are aware of first-aid procedures.

While AEDs are not explicitly mandated, their inclusion in high-risk workplaces is encouraged as part of a comprehensive first aid program.

Public Access Defibrillation (PAD)

Yukon does not have a formal Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) program. However, the Heart and Stroke Foundation has advocated for the placement of AEDs in public spaces to increase survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest. The foundation has worked with local governments to identify priority locations for AED placement, such as places where large numbers of people gather regularly.

Fire Department Requirements

The only service identified that requires the presence of an AED is the fire department. According to the Yukon Worker’s Compensation Health and Safety Board, fire departments are required to have a defibrillator available, and every firefighter is required to hold a certificate in the usage of an AED.

Newfoundland and Labrador

In Newfoundland and Labrador, the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) is not legally mandated in public spaces or most workplaces. However, there are specific regulations and recommendations that encourage their use to enhance emergency preparedness and response.

Workplace Requirements

Under the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) First Aid Regulations, employers are required to:

Assess Workplace Risks: Evaluate potential hazards to determine appropriate first aid measures.
Provide Adequate First Aid: Ensure that first aid equipment, supplies, and facilities are clean, dry, complete, and maintained in accordance with the regulations.
Maintain Accessibility: Keep first aid supplies in a visible and accessible location during all working hours.
Ensure Proper Training: Employers must ensure that first-aid attendants are properly trained and that workers are aware of first-aid procedures.

While AEDs are not explicitly mandated, their inclusion in high-risk workplaces is encouraged as part of a comprehensive first aid program. Employers are also required to provide and maintain first aid kits in accordance with CSA Z1220 standards.

Public Access Defibrillation (PAD)

Newfoundland and Labrador does not have a formal Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) program. However, the Heart and Stroke Foundation has advocated for the placement of AEDs in public spaces to increase survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest. The foundation has worked with local governments to identify priority locations for AED placement, such as places where large numbers of people gather regularly.

Fire and Emergency Services

Municipal councils, Local Service District (LSD) committees, or regional service boards may authorize the acquisition of an AED for either an emergency response-non-transport or emergency response-transport service. This allows for the placement of AEDs in emergency response vehicles or stations to enhance emergency medical services.

Summary

Public Spaces: No legal requirement for AEDs; placement is voluntary and encouraged.
Workplaces: Not explicitly mandated, but inclusion in high-risk settings is encouraged as part of a comprehensive first aid program.
Fire and Emergency Services: Municipal councils and service boards may authorize the acquisition of AEDs for emergency response services.