Cardiac arrest does not discriminate and children are equally as susceptible as adults in falling victim. Unlike other cardiac events, factors including the victim's age do not feature when determining the cause of the arrest.

As the new school year begins do you know if your child studying in a heart safe school?

Why Your Child Should be Studying in a Heart Safe School

Cardiac arrest strikes at any time with no prior symptoms. Effective CPR, combined with a shock from a defibrillator is the only definitive treatment for victims of cardiac arrest. The shock stops the victim's heart thus allowing their natural pacemaker to restart the heart in a regular rhythm.

A total of 270 children suffer fatal cardiac arrests every year in the UK whilst at school. A further 12, under the age of 35 die every week due to a cardiac arrest across the UK. Delivering treatment within 3-5 minutes of the victim collapsing increases the survival chance from 6% to 74%.

Current ambulance response rates stand at 11 minutes and for every minute that passes without treatment the victim’s survival chance decreases by 10%. Alongside cardiac arrest, children are also susceptible of falling victim to Commotio Cordis that – in some instances – leads to cardiac arrest.

Early intervention with a defibrillator and bystander CPR is essential when someone has fallen victim to cardiac arrest. This combination provides the highest chance of survival for the victim.

Creating a Heart Safe School

Equipping your child's school with a defibrillator provides peace of mind that the location is prepared to act in the event a pupil or staff member suffers a cardiac arrest.

Help your child is studying in a heart safe school by exploring our bespoke defibrillator Schools packages.

defibshop are committed to equipping everyone with the skills and knowledge to save a life. Speak to one of our Product Specialists on 0161 776 7422 or fill out our Contact Form.