Frequently Asked Questions

For general information about DefibFinder please see the About DefibFinder page.

If you can't find an answer to your query, please email ndnsupport@bhf.org.uk or call the helpline on 0300 330 5482.

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How does DefibFinder work?

DefibFinder is powered by The Circuit - the national defibrillator network. DefibFinder pulls through information from The Circuit to show the 10 closest defibs to the location that has been searched.

How can I register my defibrillator on DefibFinder?

Visit The Circuit website: thecircuit.uk and sign up to register your defib. For further information and support on how to do this, read our Guardian's Guide to The Circuit: bhf.org.uk/circuitguide

Can DefibFinder be used in an emergency?

DefibFinder is not a responder app. In the event of a cardiac arrest, you should dial 999 and start CPR immediately. The ambulance service call handler will tell you where the nearest defib to your location is.

Why does the location of my nearest defibrillator keep changing?

Information from DefibFinder is taken directly from The Circuit - the national defibrillator network. As more and more Guardians register their defibs, The Circuit will continue to grow; this means that your nearest defib may change.

DefibFinder is not picking up my location on my phone.

Your phone will need to have ‘location services’ enabled for the web browser you are using.

How quickly do registrations or changes made on The Circuit show on DefibFinder?

Once you have successfully completed registering your defib or updating any details on The Circuit it should be visible on DefibFinder shortly afterwards. If not, then try refreshing the page or closing the page and loading DefibFinder from scratch.

How can I report a defibrillator that’s not on DefibFinder?

If you know the Guardian of the defib ask them to register it on The Circuit: thecircuit.uk

Why is bystander defibrillation important?

Early CPR and defibrillation can double a person's chance of surviving an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Is training necessary to use a defibrillator?

You do not need training to use a defib, when you open the defib, or click the 'on' button, audio instructions will guide you through what to do. The most important thing to do in the event of a cardiac arrest is to first call 999, secondly, start CPR as soon as possible, and thirdly, use a defibrillator, the ambulance service call handler will be able to tell you where your closest one is, thanks to The Circuit.

Where can I learn more about what to do if someone has a cardiac arrest?

If you would like to learn how to perform CPR and how to use a defibrillator there are a variety of different training options, including from the British Heart Foundation, Resuscitation Council UK and St John Ambulance. We recommend researching which option is most relevant to you.

Where can I purchase defibrillators, batteries, pads and cabinets?

It is the Guardian's responsibility to buy appropriate cabinets and replace expired batteries and pads. The Circuit is not able to provide these items. You should contact the manufacturer or supplier to purchase these items. They will also be able to answer any questions you may have about your specific brand/model of defib.