Working to Ensure Schools Are Ready for an Emergency

Did you know each year in the U.S., around 23,000 children under the age of 18 experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital? About 40% of these incidents occur during sports, underscoring that the risk goes beyond athletic settings.

Hawaii is one of the few states that doesn’t require hands only CPR training for students before graduation. We’re making it a priority to change that in the 2025 state legislative session. We are working with lawmakers to adopt legislation that not only requires hands only CPR training but also ensures all schools update their emergency action plans (EAP) to effectively respond to cardiac emergencies.

A cardiac emergency response plan (CERP) is a clear, written plan detailing actions to prevent fatal outcomes from cardiac arrest in any setting, such as a school, workplace, or sports facility. It helps ensure preparedness for cardiac arrest emergencies that could affect students, faculty, coaches, or anyone on school grounds.

For schools, a comprehensive CERP would include:

• Designation of a sudden cardiac emergency response team,
• Clear protocols for rapid activation during a cardiac event,
• Strategic placement and maintenance of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in line with best practices,
• Communication of the plan throughout the school community,
• Routine emergency drills, and
• Coordination with local EMS, with special provisions for athletic events to ensure AED accessibility.

Do you or someone you know have personal experience with cardiac arrest in a school setting, involving either a student or adult? If so, click here to share your story.  We’re seeking volunteers willing to share their stories to help inform policy solutions and bring this issue to life for decision-makers.