Governor Kathy Hochul signed a groundbreaking law on Friday, mandating that all camps and youth sports programs in New York State implement plans for automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
This new legislation requires these facilities and events to not only have AEDs on site but also ensures that at least one individual is trained in their proper usage during games, practices, and camp activities.
The law comes in the wake of heightened awareness about cardiac emergencies in sports, notably supported by Buffalo Bills Safety Damar Hamlin, who suffered a cardiac arrest during a game in January. His experience brought to light the critical need for immediate access to life-saving equipment and trained personnel at youth sports events. Hamlin, in a statement, stressed the importance of being prepared for such emergencies, noting that his own journey underscored the unpredictability of cardiac arrest.
This legislation aims to enhance safety measures for young athletes across New York State. By ensuring the availability of AEDs and trained individuals at every youth sports event, camp, and practice, the law represents a significant step towards safeguarding the health and well-being of participants. The support from notable figures like Hamlin highlights the law’s potential impact in preventing tragedies and providing timely medical intervention during cardiac emergencies in youth sports and recreational activities.
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