The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association has announced the distribution of automated external defibrillators to two dozen high schools in the state.
As reported by Wausau CBS affiliate WSAW, the distribution is part of an initiative aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of student-athletes, coaches, and spectators across the state. The National Federation of State High School Associations Foundation helped fund the effort.
Fourteen of the AEDs were distributed randomly at WIAA meetings, with two schools in each of the association's seven districts receiving the units. The remaining 10 were distributed using the Department of Public Instruction Free & Reduced lunch data.
“The safety of student-athletes is our top priority,” WIAA executive director Stephanie Hauser said. “By supplying additional AEDs to schools, we are taking a proactive step toward ensuring a safe environment for all participants in interscholastic athletics.”
Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death among young athletes, WSAW's Sean White reported, adding AEDs, when used promptly, can significantly increase the chances of survival.
“The NFHS Foundation was instrumental in this initiative, offering partial funding and support for distributing AEDs. We are proud to partner with the WIAA on this vital mission,” NFHS Foundation president Davis Whitfield said. “Together, we can make a significant impact and save the lives of young athletes across Wisconsin by providing access to this essential device.”
The WIAA requires all paid head coaches to be certified in first aid and the use of an AED, and all WIAA-member schools are required to have an emergency action plan.
“We are grateful for the support and partnership of the WIAA and the NFHS Foundation in providing our school with an AED,” Abbotsford High School athletic director Alex Larson said. “This new addition will greatly enhance our ability to respond to any potential emergencies during sporting events, ensuring the safety and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches and spectators.”
