Abstract: A method of distributing over-the-counter automatic external defibrillators is provided which strikes a balance between the desire to facilitate widespread OTC AED distribution without recording purchaser contact information at the point of sale and the desire to be able to contact OTC AED purchasers in the event of the need to provide them with important information. The OTC AEDs are sold with no contact information reporting requirement at the point of sale. However, the OTC AED is sold with instructions for sending purchaser contact information to the manufacturer as by a mail-in postcard or Website registration. In the event of a situation requiring that purchasers be contacted, the retailer provides information it may have on hand which facilitates the contact of OTC AED purchasers.