Is Your School Prepared?
No school expects a cardiac emergency.
However, every school should be prepared for one.
Cardiac Emergency Resource Center For PIAA Schools
The moments before EMS arrives are the most important. A practiced response, accessible AED, and trained staff can make the difference between tragedy and survival.
Preparation isn't just about meeting a legal requirement. It's about protecting every student, employee, coach, volunteer, and visitor who walks through your doors.
Whether you're a superintendent, principal, athletic director, coach, school nurse, or facilities leader, this resource center will help you understand your responsibilities and provide practical tools to build a safer school environment.
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Sudden Cardiac Arrest is an electrical malfunction of the heart that causes it to stop beating effectively. It occurs without warning and is different from a heart attack.
Without immediate CPR and an AED, sudden cardiac arrest is often fatal within minutes. Because many victims have no known history of heart issues, every school should be prepared to respond immediately.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest is the #1 killer of student athletes in the US. It is the leading cause of death on school campuses. Overall, there are more than 1,000 cardiac arrests in the US every day. Tragically, less than 10% survive.
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Greg Moyer's Law strengthens cardiac emergency preparedness in Pennsylvania schools by expanding access to AEDs and requiring schools to develop and implement cardiac emergency response plans.
The law recognizes that simply owning an AED isn't enough. Schools must also have:
Accessible AEDs
Written emergency response procedures
Trained personnel
Routine planning and preparedness
Compliance begins with having a clear plan—and making sure everyone knows it.
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· Cardiac Emergency Response Plan Template
Develop a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) that outlines roles, responsibilities, communication protocols, AED locations, and response procedures for cardiac emergencies occurring anywhere on campus or during school-sponsored events. This customizable template helps schools establish a coordinated response that aligns with Pennsylvania requirements and recognized best practices.· Emergency Drill Documentation Forms <thoughtful resource; not sure if we have a template we can add here>
Document and evaluate cardiac emergency response drills with standardized forms that track participation, response times, observations, and opportunities for improvement. Proper documentation demonstrates your school's commitment to preparedness while supporting compliance and continuous program improvement. -
Training Options <link to either PWF or Cardio Partners training page? Both?>
Explore CPR, AED, and Cardiac Emergency Response Team (CERT) training opportunities designed for school personnel, coaches, nurses, athletic trainers, administrators, and other staff. Learn how to build a sustainable training program that ensures the right people have the skills and confidence to respond effectively during a cardiac emergency. -
AED Site Assessment & Placement Guide <Cardio Partners likely has one we can link to>
Determine the optimal number and placement of AEDs throughout your campus to ensure rapid access during an emergency. This guide helps schools evaluate building layouts, athletic facilities, travel distances, special events, and after-hours activities to maximize readiness. -
Review AED models, cabinets, signage, replacement batteries, electrode pads, and other essential accessories to build or expand your school's AED program. Learn what to consider when selecting equipment that best fits your campus, budget, and long-term maintenance needs.
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Create a fundraising campaign through Huddle For Hearts to help offset the cost of purchasing AEDs, replacement supplies, and related training.