What happens if my child needs an AED ... but they are wet?

Wet? No worries - you can still use an AED! But just to be super clear - when we say “laying in water” we’re NOT talking about using one while someone is submerged in the pool or ocean - think more like water around them after being dragged out of a pool onto a safe surface, or on a wet footpath in the rain etc.    This question came up in our recent Shocktober session, and it’s one we often hear in our classes too... so you’re definitely not alone in wondering! Using an AED on someone wet, around water, etc., will not lead to you getting a shock.  OK: Wet skin, in the rain, puddles, poolside.  Not OK: Fully submerged in water.  NOTE: The most important thing is that the skin you are adhering the pads to is as dry as possible so that they can stick effectively!  This clip is a short snippet from our Shocktober event where we busted common AED myths and shared what’s actually safe when it comes to water and defibrillators. From Australian Resuscitaiton Council Guideline 9.3.2 – Resuscitation in Drowning states “During drowning, prompt initiation of rescue breaths and starting CPR is very important. Do notdelay starting CPR while waiting for an AED to arrive. As soon as it is available, the AED should be attached, and the prompts followed. Dry the person's chest if feasible before applying the pads. Although the cardiac rhythm following drowning is usually non-shockable, the AED may be lifesaving in the small number of those drowned who have a shockable cardiac rhythm. Defibrillation on a wet surface, for example poolside, is not dangerous.” References  Using an AED in particular environments: is it safe or not? Suggestions for lay people and their instructors - Baldi, EnricoContri, Enrico et al. Resuscitation, Volume 106, e25 - https://www.resuscitationjournal.com/... Resuscitaiton Council Guideline 9.3.2 – Resuscitation in Drowning - https://www.anzcor.org/home/new-guide...