During an emergency, people do not want to search a database. They want one clear answer: where is the nearest accessible AED? A public AED network makes that information visible to everyone. Its value depends on a simple principle—every location should be as accurate and usable as possible.
Why public visibility is a useful additional layer
The Dutch Heart Foundation notes that the Netherlands does not have a completely public national database of every AED location. Devices registered with the official responder system are intended for activation through emergency dispatch and trained community responders. At the same time, residents, visitors, sports clubs and organisations may want to understand where AEDs are available around them.
AEDradar focuses on that public information layer: a free map where people can locate devices and where the community can improve missing or outdated information.
Four details that make an AED location useful
1. An accurate map position
A marker should identify not only the correct building but, where possible, the correct entrance or side. On business parks, sports grounds and campuses, the difference may involve several doors and a significant walking distance.
2. Clear access information
“At reception” is useful only when the relevant reception and its opening hours are clear. Short directions, hours and indoor-or-outdoor status help people judge which AED is genuinely reachable.
3. Current availability
An AED may be temporarily unavailable, moved or awaiting service after use. A community network should make corrections easy while recognising responsible ownership. AEDradar therefore allows custodians to claim a device and manage its listing directly.
4. Accountable management
Open contributions help a network grow; verified custodianship makes essential information more stable. Both roles matter. Community members can identify missing devices or errors, while owners can confirm access and status.
How can you contribute?
- Add a missing public AED with an accurate map position.
- Improve an unclear location description.
- Report relocation or temporary unavailability.
- If you own the AED, claim it and review the information periodically.
- Encourage training: CPR and AED courses build knowledge and confidence.
By us, for us
A public AED network is more than a collection of anonymous markers. It is shared infrastructure that becomes more dependable when organisations, owners and residents take responsibility for the information they know. Every correct location makes the map more useful for the next person seeking help.
Sources: Dutch Heart Foundation — What is an AED?, Dutch Heart Foundation — AED registration and Netherlands Red Cross — What is an AED?.