Protecting Students of All Ages

You’ll find AEDs in many airports, shopping malls, and police cars. Why not place them where young people gather – schools and universities?

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is an indiscriminate killer. In fact, it is the leading cause of sudden death in young athletes, accounting for close to 75% of cases¹. SCA also strikes children participating in day-to-day school activities.

With a Philips HeartStart AED nearby, you can help save lives.

Many are at risk

Chances are your institution doubles as a community gathering spot. Beyond the basic educational curriculum you may host continuing education classes, theatrical/musical events, athletic tournaments, or business meetings.

When SCA strikes, time is of the essence. You can be prepared with HeartStart defibrillators. Philips is the worldwide industry leader with thousands of AEDs deployed in schools and on campuses across the U.S.

Simple technology helps save lives

Unlike a heart attack, SCA is a condition where a malfunction in the heart’s electrical system causes it to beat erratically. Blood is no longer pumped to the rest of the body. Death can occur in minutes. CPR along with a shock from an automated external defibrillator (AED) can reverse this condition.

+ Learn more about AED technology 

Today’s AEDs are very easy to use. No one should be afraid to try one out in the face of an emergency. You cannot shock or be shocked accidentally. Philips HeartStart AEDs offer simple step-by-step voice prompts and CPR coaching for maximum effectiveness. 

Develop a strong program

More than 20 states have adopted legislative mandates that, in some form, require schools to deploy AEDs. New York, Colorado, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas are among states that have recognized the life-saving possibilities of this technology.

Whether or not your state is involved, you can implement an AED program and emergency response plan to suit your school or university.

Here are ten important steps to a comprehensive program:

1. Select a program coordinator and medical consultant
2. Review your state laws and regulations
3. Conduct a needs assessment and build a budget
4. Seek funding
5. Select an AED device and vendor
6. Select a location for placement of each device
7. Develop a response plan
8. Coordinate with EMS
9. Conduct training
10. Create public awareness

Get involved!

You have a valuable resource in the students you aim to protect. Engage them in the development of an emergency action plan.

Train them in the proper use of AEDs. Open up a dialogue between health experts and your students. You may find a passionate group of young advocates who can spread the message throughout your community.