An Ottawa boy who died when his heart stopped during recess urges schools to install automated external defibrillators (AEDs). After the tragic ordeal, Eastern Ontario’s French Catholic school board now has defibrillators in all 55 schools.
Move to install AEDs in all schools
According to Jason Dupuis, superintendent of education for the Conseil des ecoles catholiques du Centre-Est, the decision to equip schools with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) was inspired by the death of the 8-year old Griffin Martin who collapsed while playing with friends at Orleans Wood Elementary School.
Although it is not known whether a defibrillator would have saved the life of the child, Griffin’s school did not have one of the devices available.
After his death, Griffin’s parents started to raise money to install AEDs in public areas including schools.
Out of the 20 schools that already have the device on hand, none have used the device yet. Nevertheless, Dupuis believes that it is still a worthwhile investment for the safety of both students and staff.
Be ready to save a life by enrolling in a first aid course
Prompt delivery of CPR and using an AED can save a life. If you want to be prepared during emergencies, it is recommended to enroll in a first aid course today.
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LEARN MORE
Learn how to help by enrolling in a class on CPR and AED and for more information, check out these sources: