Island schools will have quicker access to emergency response

 All of Prince Edward Island’s  public schools will soon have access to modern automated external defibrillators (AEDs) known to dramatically increase the survival rate from a cardiac arrest.  AEDs are used during a cardiac failure to shock the heart and restore its rhythm.  The province has issued a request for proposals to purchase 60 AEDs at a cost of more than $100,000.

“What this means is that all our schools will have consistent access to this lifesaving emergency equipment,” said Education, Early Learning and Culture Minister Jordan Brown. “Schools are widely used for athletic programs, extra-curricular activities and community events for all ages. The new equipment will allow us to be more prepared for cardiac emergencies in our school facilities and communities.”

The new units will be placed in schools that do not have an AED, and in schools where existing units will be replaced and upgraded. 

Currently 25 Island schools have AEDs, which have been purchased through various school fundraising initiatives by Home and School and community groups, and by the school boards for schools where there is an identified risk among the student or staff population.

Modern AEDs are safe and easy to use. Teachers and staff will be trained to use the new devices by the Red Cross and other partners.

The school-based AEDs will be added to the provincial AED Registry which is a database used by first responders to locate the nearest defibrillator when an emergency occurs in an Island community.

Media contact:
Jean Doherty
Education, Early Learning and Culture
902 314 5702  
jmdoherty@gov.pe.ca (link sends e-mail)