Dinniman Pushes for Defibrillators in Every Public School

“Each year, an estimated 2,000 young lives are lost to sudden cardiac arrest. AED’s drastically increase the chances of survival for those who suffer sudden cardiac arrest,” Dinniman said. “We want every school in the Commonwealth to have  an AED that is up to date and ready to use. The quicker the General Assembly passes Senate Bill 606, the quicker that will happen.”

The devices are designed to be easy enough for a child to use and they come with easy-to-follow instructions. They are designed to be used by virtually anyone, including older children and those who have not been formally trained in their use.

 The press conference will be part of a day of legislative action as October is National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month. Prior to the press conference, individuals and groups will assemble in the cafeteria area off the East Wing Rotunda at 10 a.m. to distribute literature and schedule legislator visits for throughout the day. Those interested in participating, can sign up here.

“AEDs drastically increase the chances of survival for those who suffer sudden cardiac arrest. In just the last twelve months, three high school students in Chester County survived a sudden cardiac arrest because their school had an AED and used it successfully,” Dinniman said. “I believe all students deserve the second chances that AEDs can offer and all parents deserve the peace of mind of knowing that their children’s school has an AED.”

Senate Bill 606 was approved unanimously by the Senate Education Committee in June and now awaits a vote by the Senate Appropriations Committee and full Senate before going to the House for consideration.

More information about the rally and the devices can be found here on Dinniman's website.