Frequently Asked Questions

An AED stands for "Automatic External Defibrillator." It is a portable medical device used to analyze a person's heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. They are readily visible in all airports and many public buildings.

A BCK stands for "Bleeding Control Kit." It is essentially an advanced first aid kit, specifically designed for managing bleeding in emergency situations (think mass shootings - sadly). It distinguishes itself from a standard first aid kit by including items such as tourniquets and specialized large wound gauze.

A BCK stands for "Bleeding Control Kit." It is essentially an advanced first aid kit, specifically designed for managing bleeding in emergency situations (think mass shootings - sadly). It distinguishes itself from a standard first aid kit by including items such as tourniquets and specialized large wound gauze.

The founder of Rescue Beats (Bill Amirault) is one of the extremely fortunate 7% SCA survivors, and why he has made it a life mission to pay it forward by setting a goal to bring CPR and AED awareness to 1 million people and providing free training classes to all Rescue Beats clients and for many others.

 Additionally, with the rise of mass-shooting incidents, the extra trauma supplies included in the BCKs could significantly aid bystanders and first responders attending to any victims of such incidents.

All new and existing buildings meeting defined criteria in Broward County. Specific rules apply to each occupancy type, which are defined in the Florida Fire Code, but here is a high-level list: 

• Multi-story residential buildings with 5 or more floors.
• All hotels and motels.
• Commercial and retail spaces with a square footage greater than 35,000 sq. ft.
• Fitness centers, gymnasiums, and indoor rec centers exceeding 1,500 sq. ft.
• Any assembly occupancy with a capacity of 100 or more people.
• Places of worship with a capacity of 100 or more people.
• Office buildings/business occupancies w/square footage greater than 20,000 sq. ft.
• All dental offices in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 6485-17.015.
• All adult day care facilities.
• All charter and private schools.
• Assisted living facilities as defined by section 429.021(5) of the Florida Statute.
• Ambulatory surgical centers as defined by section 395.002(3) of the Florida
• Statute.
• Walk-in medical care facilities.
• Hospitals providing emergency services, excluding freestanding facilities.

 The effective date for compliance is June 2024. Meaning, all fire inspections after this date will fail and a warning will be issued to any facilities not in compliance with the new code. Enforcement will follow.

Requirements vary depending on the business type, capacity, building size, etc. Some buildings may only require only require one AED/BCK, while others may require several. The quantity of BCKs and their required contents do vary depending on the size of the building or facility and its occupancy load/type. We recommend reviewing the code and consulting with local city fire officials for your specific building requirements.  

​ ​Rescue Beats offers expert guidance to help you determine your building or business requirements. Contact us for an on-site or remote evaluation. We worked together with Broward fire officials while developing out packages. When you purchase through us you can be assured that your equipment will pass a fire inspection. In fact, we offer a 100% guarantee that you will pass this portion of your fire inspection, or we will work directly with your fire officials to make sure you do…at no additional charge to you.

  Price varies based on the reseller, equipment (model, features), package contents, installation, training, etc., but you should expect to pay at least $2500 for a single starter AED/BCK (plus some overhead costs). Large occupancy BCKs will be more expensive due to their required contents. We recommend budgeting at least $3000 per device to help with accessories, installation, training, maintenance, etc. There are less expensive refurbished AEDs, more expensive ‘smart’ AEDs or more all-inclusive packages available, depending on your needs. The available features can get complicated and overwhelming

​  Rescue Beats offers guidance for selecting the right equipment for your needs. To ease confusion, we have created ‘fire-code ready’ packages for each type of building or business as defined in the code.

    You may be able to rent equipment until you get the budget to purchase or finance the equipment to make smaller payments over time.

  Rescue Beats offers short-term equipment rental, with a discounted purchase price based on the rental period. We also offer 24 or 36 month low-interest financing.

It can vary significantly depending on where you buy it. Most packages sold online do not comply with the new code requirements, especially the BCKs. The packages we sell are specifically made to comply with the new fire code rules. What's inside can change based on the type of building or business. For instance, our kits always have at least the AED, BCK, the proper wall cabinet, signage, and a BCK with the appropriate number of tourniquets, gauze, gloves, stickers for your building size. 

Most kits/packages sold online do not meet the specific minimum BCK code requirements defined in section F-121.3.4, 5 & 6.

  It is the responsibility of the owner/occupant to install AED devices and BCKs in accordance with the guidelines

     Rescue Beats offers installation services and/or guidance for owners and staff

The owner/occupant is responsible for maintaining AED devices and BCKs in accordance with manufacturer-recommended maintenance requirements and as required by the guidelines. 

   Rescue Beats offers maintenance services and/or guidance for owners and staff.  

  Training is no longer required with the latest revision of the code (04/2024). We strongly feel there is a need for at least some basic awareness/refresher training for CPR and the usage of AEDs and Tourniquets.

    Rescue Beats provides FREE training awareness classes to clients that purchase supplies from us. We are also an authorized CPR and First Aid training center and offer a variety of training and certification courses

  “At the discretion of the AHJ, the implementation of an AED and BCK shall occur only after a written notification is made to the Fire Chief or designee by the individual, entity, organization, or company acquiring an AED.” Specific details are required in the written notification. There are also many installation requirements defined in the code, so careful attention to location, signage, cabinet requirements, etc. is strongly recommended. 

   Rescue Beats offers installation planning and assistance and notification assistance, as needed, with the purchase of our equipment.  

   The AED features, accessories and BCKs are endless and can be very technical and confusing. Some important things to consider are:Do they comply with the code for your business/building?

1. Would you rather pay a little more now for a lower cost of ownership long term
2. (battery life, maintenance, etc.) or less now, but higher costs over time?
3. Would you like a self-monitoring device, or do you have the ability to monitor and
4. inspect them?
5. OCTOBER 2024 WWWWW.RESCUEBEATSPRO.COM 954-947-5060
6. Would a device that has multi-lingual audible instructions be helpful in your
7. building?
8. Do you want fully or semi-automatic devices? Do you know what that means?
9. Does the BCK have all the required items and counts?

   The AED features, accessories and BCKs are endless and can be very technical and confusing. Some important things to consider are:Do they comply with the code for your business/building?

1. Would you rather pay a little more now for a lower cost of ownership long term
2. (battery life, maintenance, etc.) or less now, but higher costs over time?
3. Would you like a self-monitoring device, or do you have the ability to monitor and
4. inspect them?
5. OCTOBER 2024 WWWWW.RESCUEBEATSPRO.COM 954-947-5060
6. Would a device that has multi-lingual audible instructions be helpful in your
7. building?
8. Do you want fully or semi-automatic devices? Do you know what that means?
9. Does the BCK have all the required items and counts?

  Rescue Beats offers guidance for selecting the right equipment for your needs. To ease confusion, we have created ‘fire-code ready’ packages for each type of building or business as defined in the code. 

 Specific equipment requirements vary but are outlined in the amended guidelines. Depending on the occupancy type, the number of units, locations, kit contents, signage will vary.

​ ​Rescue Beats can assist with equipment needs for your specific property and submit to your local fire officials for approval.  

No, the AEDs are battery operated and do not require any electrical power. The only installation overhead is installing the cabinet(s) and signage where required.

Yes, although the amendment doesn't explicitly detail record-keeping procedures, it does state that you must follow the manufacturer’s recommendation. Many manufacturers require regular inspections with recordkeeping. Additionally, there is real liability exposure if devices are not maintained with proof of regular inspections, so we strongly recommend having an implementation plan that includes this or purchasing AEDs that are self-monitoring to eliminate some of that process. 

    Rescue Beats includes maintenance hang tags with every AED we sell/install.  

  Yes, there is shelf life to all products. Of course, this varies by product and manufacturer. Most standard AEDs have a battery life of 4-6 years, many have replaceable batteries. The AED electrode pads (sticky pad placed on the victim) also have a shelf life of 2-4 years. And like any first aid kit, the BCKs will also have a shelf life and need periodic maintenance/replacement. 

   Rescue Beats will notify you before any products expire, making sure you have enough time to refresh components before your next fire inspection.

  Yes, however there are specific conditions for immunity, and the law's application varies based on your role, such as an individual, community association, or healthcare provider. It's crucial to thoroughly review and comprehend the law and its relevance to your situation or business.
 

Florida has two specific statutes in place to encourage civilian assistance during emergencies and safeguard those who offer such help. These statutes grant immunity from civil liability in situations involving the use of an AED device or when providing emergency care or treatment (like CPR and First Aid), aiming to protect those who step in to help in times of need.

Scan the QR code or use the link below to read the “The Cardiac Arrest Survival Act” F.S. 768.1325 statute:

 

http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.1325.html


Scan the QR code or use the link below to read the “Good Samaritan Act” F.S. 768.13 statute:



​http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.13.html

Any person who uses an AED should contact the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) by calling 9-1-1 immediately prior to or immediately upon use of the AED. The AHJ may conduct a quality assurance review after the use of an AED or BCK.

• As of this writing there are no established means to request an extension to comply

       with the June 2024 deadline.

• Annual fire inspections now encompass compliance with these code amendments. Comparable to fire suppression, egress, emergency lighting, and other elements, the responsible party will be required to demonstrate adherence to the codes. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a Notice of Violation to the building owner, fines, etc

•  Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) kills more than 360,000 people/yr. in the US (with

        more than a 90% mortality rate). CPR and AEDs can drastically improve chances of                      survival. As mentioned above, the founder of Rescue Beats (Bill Amirault) is a SCA                         survivor and is dedicated to raising awareness. More on that here: 
         Heroes reunited with Bill on the Harry Show - YouTube

The code may be adjusted from time to time so check with your local fire officials for the

latest updates.

Scan the QR code or use the link below to read the Broward County Board of Rules and

Appeals Amendments to the Florida Fire Prevention Code: Section F-121 - Automatic

External Defibrillator (AED) and Bleeding Control Kit (BCK):


https://library.municode.com/fl/broward_county_board_of_rules_and_appeals/codes/the_florida_fire_prevention_code?nodeId=BRCOLOAMFLFIPRCO_SF-121AUEXDEAEBLCOKIBC

An AED stands for "Automatic External Defibrillator." It is a portable medical device used to analyze a person's heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. They are readily visible in all airports and many public buildings.

A BCK stands for "Bleeding Control Kit." It is essentially an advanced first aid kit, specifically designed for managing bleeding in emergency situations (think mass shootings - sadly). It distinguishes itself from a standard first aid kit by including items such as tourniquets and specialized large wound gauze.

A BCK stands for "Bleeding Control Kit." It is essentially an advanced first aid kit, specifically designed for managing bleeding in emergency situations (think mass shootings - sadly). It distinguishes itself from a standard first aid kit by including items such as tourniquets and specialized large wound gauze.

The founder of Rescue Beats (Bill Amirault) is one of the extremely fortunate 7% SCA survivors, and why he has made it a life mission to pay it forward by setting a goal to bring CPR and AED awareness to 1 million people and providing free training classes to all Rescue Beats clients and for many others.

 Additionally, with the rise of mass-shooting incidents, the extra trauma supplies included in the BCKs could significantly aid bystanders and first responders attending to any victims of such incidents.

All new and existing buildings meeting defined criteria in Broward County. Specific rules apply to each occupancy type, which are defined in the Florida Fire Code, but here is a high-level list: 

• Multi-story residential buildings with 5 or more floors.
• All hotels and motels.
• Commercial and retail spaces with a square footage greater than 35,000 sq. ft.
• Fitness centers, gymnasiums, and indoor rec centers exceeding 1,500 sq. ft.
• Any assembly occupancy with a capacity of 100 or more people.
• Places of worship with a capacity of 100 or more people.
• Office buildings/business occupancies w/square footage greater than 20,000 sq. ft.
• All dental offices in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 6485-17.015.
• All adult day care facilities.
• All charter and private schools.
• Assisted living facilities as defined by section 429.021(5) of the Florida Statute.
• Ambulatory surgical centers as defined by section 395.002(3) of the Florida
• Statute.
• Walk-in medical care facilities.
• Hospitals providing emergency services, excluding freestanding facilities.

 The effective date for compliance is June 2024. Meaning, all fire inspections after this date will fail and a warning will be issued to any facilities not in compliance with the new code. Enforcement will follow.

Requirements vary depending on the business type, capacity, building size, etc. Some buildings may only require only require one AED/BCK, while others may require several. The quantity of BCKs and their required contents do vary depending on the size of the building or facility and its occupancy load/type. We recommend reviewing the code and consulting with local city fire officials for your specific building requirements.  

​ ​Rescue Beats offers expert guidance to help you determine your building or business requirements. Contact us for an on-site or remote evaluation. We worked together with Broward fire officials while developing out packages. When you purchase through us you can be assured that your equipment will pass a fire inspection. In fact, we offer a 100% guarantee that you will pass this portion of your fire inspection, or we will work directly with your fire officials to make sure you do…at no additional charge to you.

  Price varies based on the reseller, equipment (model, features), package contents, installation, training, etc., but you should expect to pay at least $2500 for a single starter AED/BCK (plus some overhead costs). Large occupancy BCKs will be more expensive due to their required contents. We recommend budgeting at least $3000 per device to help with accessories, installation, training, maintenance, etc. There are less expensive refurbished AEDs, more expensive ‘smart’ AEDs or more all-inclusive packages available, depending on your needs. The available features can get complicated and overwhelming

​  Rescue Beats offers guidance for selecting the right equipment for your needs. To ease confusion, we have created ‘fire-code ready’ packages for each type of building or business as defined in the code.

    You may be able to rent equipment until you get the budget to purchase or finance the equipment to make smaller payments over time.

  Rescue Beats offers short-term equipment rental, with a discounted purchase price based on the rental period. We also offer 24 or 36 month low-interest financing.

It can vary significantly depending on where you buy it. Most packages sold online do not comply with the new code requirements, especially the BCKs. The packages we sell are specifically made to comply with the new fire code rules. What's inside can change based on the type of building or business. For instance, our kits always have at least the AED, BCK, the proper wall cabinet, signage, and a BCK with the appropriate number of tourniquets, gauze, gloves, stickers for your building size. 

Most kits/packages sold online do not meet the specific minimum BCK code requirements defined in section F-121.3.4, 5 & 6.

  It is the responsibility of the owner/occupant to install AED devices and BCKs in accordance with the guidelines

     Rescue Beats offers installation services and/or guidance for owners and staff

The owner/occupant is responsible for maintaining AED devices and BCKs in accordance with manufacturer-recommended maintenance requirements and as required by the guidelines. 

   Rescue Beats offers maintenance services and/or guidance for owners and staff.  

  Training is no longer required with the latest revision of the code (04/2024). We strongly feel there is a need for at least some basic awareness/refresher training for CPR and the usage of AEDs and Tourniquets.

    Rescue Beats provides FREE training awareness classes to clients that purchase supplies from us. We are also an authorized CPR and First Aid training center and offer a variety of training and certification courses

  “At the discretion of the AHJ, the implementation of an AED and BCK shall occur only after a written notification is made to the Fire Chief or designee by the individual, entity, organization, or company acquiring an AED.” Specific details are required in the written notification. There are also many installation requirements defined in the code, so careful attention to location, signage, cabinet requirements, etc. is strongly recommended. 

   Rescue Beats offers installation planning and assistance and notification assistance, as needed, with the purchase of our equipment.  

   The AED features, accessories and BCKs are endless and can be very technical and confusing. Some important things to consider are:Do they comply with the code for your business/building?

1. Would you rather pay a little more now for a lower cost of ownership long term
2. (battery life, maintenance, etc.) or less now, but higher costs over time?
3. Would you like a self-monitoring device, or do you have the ability to monitor and
4. inspect them?
5. OCTOBER 2024 WWWWW.RESCUEBEATSPRO.COM 954-947-5060
6. Would a device that has multi-lingual audible instructions be helpful in your
7. building?
8. Do you want fully or semi-automatic devices? Do you know what that means?
9. Does the BCK have all the required items and counts?

   The AED features, accessories and BCKs are endless and can be very technical and confusing. Some important things to consider are:Do they comply with the code for your business/building?

1. Would you rather pay a little more now for a lower cost of ownership long term
2. (battery life, maintenance, etc.) or less now, but higher costs over time?
3. Would you like a self-monitoring device, or do you have the ability to monitor and
4. inspect them?
5. OCTOBER 2024 WWWWW.RESCUEBEATSPRO.COM 954-947-5060
6. Would a device that has multi-lingual audible instructions be helpful in your
7. building?
8. Do you want fully or semi-automatic devices? Do you know what that means?
9. Does the BCK have all the required items and counts?

  Rescue Beats offers guidance for selecting the right equipment for your needs. To ease confusion, we have created ‘fire-code ready’ packages for each type of building or business as defined in the code. 

 Specific equipment requirements vary but are outlined in the amended guidelines. Depending on the occupancy type, the number of units, locations, kit contents, signage will vary.

​ ​Rescue Beats can assist with equipment needs for your specific property and submit to your local fire officials for approval.  

No, the AEDs are battery operated and do not require any electrical power. The only installation overhead is installing the cabinet(s) and signage where required.

Yes, although the amendment doesn't explicitly detail record-keeping procedures, it does state that you must follow the manufacturer’s recommendation. Many manufacturers require regular inspections with recordkeeping. Additionally, there is real liability exposure if devices are not maintained with proof of regular inspections, so we strongly recommend having an implementation plan that includes this or purchasing AEDs that are self-monitoring to eliminate some of that process. 

    Rescue Beats includes maintenance hang tags with every AED we sell/install.  

  Yes, there is shelf life to all products. Of course, this varies by product and manufacturer. Most standard AEDs have a battery life of 4-6 years, many have replaceable batteries. The AED electrode pads (sticky pad placed on the victim) also have a shelf life of 2-4 years. And like any first aid kit, the BCKs will also have a shelf life and need periodic maintenance/replacement. 

   Rescue Beats will notify you before any products expire, making sure you have enough time to refresh components before your next fire inspection.

  Yes, however there are specific conditions for immunity, and the law's application varies based on your role, such as an individual, community association, or healthcare provider. It's crucial to thoroughly review and comprehend the law and its relevance to your situation or business.
 

Florida has two specific statutes in place to encourage civilian assistance during emergencies and safeguard those who offer such help. These statutes grant immunity from civil liability in situations involving the use of an AED device or when providing emergency care or treatment (like CPR and First Aid), aiming to protect those who step in to help in times of need.

Scan the QR code or use the link below to read the “The Cardiac Arrest Survival Act” F.S. 768.1325 statute:

 

http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.1325.html


Scan the QR code or use the link below to read the “Good Samaritan Act” F.S. 768.13 statute:



​http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.13.html

Any person who uses an AED should contact the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) by calling 9-1-1 immediately prior to or immediately upon use of the AED. The AHJ may conduct a quality assurance review after the use of an AED or BCK.

• As of this writing there are no established means to request an extension to comply

       with the June 2024 deadline.

• Annual fire inspections now encompass compliance with these code amendments. Comparable to fire suppression, egress, emergency lighting, and other elements, the responsible party will be required to demonstrate adherence to the codes. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a Notice of Violation to the building owner, fines, etc

•  Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) kills more than 360,000 people/yr. in the US (with

        more than a 90% mortality rate). CPR and AEDs can drastically improve chances of                      survival. As mentioned above, the founder of Rescue Beats (Bill Amirault) is a SCA                         survivor and is dedicated to raising awareness. More on that here: 
         Heroes reunited with Bill on the Harry Show - YouTube

The code may be adjusted from time to time so check with your local fire officials for the

latest updates.

Scan the QR code or use the link below to read the Broward County Board of Rules and

Appeals Amendments to the Florida Fire Prevention Code: Section F-121 - Automatic

External Defibrillator (AED) and Bleeding Control Kit (BCK):


https://library.municode.com/fl/broward_county_board_of_rules_and_appeals/codes/the_florida_fire_prevention_code?nodeId=BRCOLOAMFLFIPRCO_SF-121AUEXDEAEBLCOKIBC