From high-profile nationally broadcast incidents to small-town tragedies that fly under the radar, each of us can think of a situation in which a sudden cardiac arrest might have resulted in a very different outcome if an automated external defibrillator had been on the premises.

In Ohio, Gov. Mike DeWine has signed House Bill 47, requiring AEDs in every public and chartered nonpublic school in the state, in addition to municipally owned or operated sports or recreation venues.

DeWine signed the bill at Worthington Kilbourne High School in Columbus, where he was joined by student athlete Canen Dickman and his family. Dickman told the crowd his life was saved by an AED and the quick actions of his coach, after he collapsed from a sudden cardiac arrest during a summer soccer practice.

It is an important requirement, but will mean little unless there is cardiopulmonary resuscitation and AED training to go along with installation of the devices. Teachers, coaches and administrators should receive the training, of course, but parents and volunteers should also consider being ready and able to help and use the devices if necessary.

Local teachers are given AED-training opportunities, often as part of their summer continued education efforts. Funding support for training with a broader reach — churches, gyms, sports venues, etc. — must go along with required installation of the devices.

Being faced with what to do in such a frightening situation can be paralyzing. Knowing the right equipment is available and the right training has been received can make all the difference.

Bravo to lawmakers who made HB 47 happen. Now it is up to those at schools and other required facilities to be sure its purpose is fulfilled.

editorial@vindy.com