Cardiac Emergency Response Plan
QUICK-START GUIDE

Be Prepared to Prevent Sudden Cardiac Death at Your Facility

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death on school campuses, and the #1 killer of student athletes. That’s why it’s critical for your organization to have a written and well-practiced Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP). Created by a national task force of health and safety organizations, a CERP is a vital step towards sudden cardiac death prevention.

Step 1

Appoint a Cardiac Emergency Response Team

The onsite team helps document the plan, conduct drills and share plan

USE TOOLKIT TO:

Identify team members who are/will be CPR/AED certified. Review guidelines for overall staff training.

Step 2

Document Emergency Response Plan

Include CERP in your emergency action plan or site safety plan

USE TOOLKIT TO:

Personalize the plan to document the exact emergency action relevant to your school. Evaluate your plan annually.

Step 3

Install & Maintain AEDs
Properly

AEDs must be properly installed and never locked away—always accessible.

USE TOOLKIT TO:

Learn best practices for AED installation and maintenance including protocol to conduct monthly checks & keep batteries and pads current.

Step 4

Conduct Life-Saving Drills

CERPS only work if you practice them. Test your team’s readiness and your plan’s effectiveness

USE TOOLKIT TO:

Plan your annual cardiac emergency drill (like fire drills) & involve local EMS. Evaluate your drills and make improvements.

Step 5

Share Plan With Community

Educate students, parents, staff, coaches, volunteers and facility users how they can be prepared to save a life

USE TOOLKIT TO:

Send notices to your community about SCA awareness and your CERP. Circulate and
post AED location throughout facility.

Download your free Cardiac Emergency Response Plan toolkit now.