LANSING, Mich., June 11, 2024 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) proudly passed House Resolution 273 declaring June 1-7, 2024 as National CPR and AED Awareness Week in the state of Michigan today. The resolution emphasized the importance of lifesaving skills and equipment in our communities. With cardiac arrests occurring at school athletic events, immediate access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and the knowledge of CPR can significantly increase survival rates.
“Every second counts when it comes to cardiac arrest,” Fitzgerald said. “AEDs and CPR can mean the difference between life and death, and it’s crucial that we all take the time to learn these skills and increase the number of AEDs that are accessible in public spaces. That’s why we passed a law to do just that in Michigan schools.”
AED/CPR Awareness Week serves as a vital reminder of the role that quick response plays in emergencies. According to the American Heart Association, about 90% of people who suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests die. However, immediate access to CPR can double or triple the chances of survival. Public access to AEDs is equally important, as these devices can restore a normal heart rhythm before emergency responders arrive.
Fitzgerald introduced and passed legislation to mandate access to AEDs in public schools whenever possible and ensure that more people are trained in using an AED. Damar Hamlin, a pro football player who survived an on-field cardiac arrest, and the NFL donated 50 AEDs to Michigan schools to celebrate the legislation becoming law.
“By empowering our community members with the skills to use AEDs, we are making our neighborhoods safer and more resilient. Together, we’re going to have an AED in every school,” Fitzgerald added.
Fitzgerald has been actively involved in efforts to promote health and safety across Michigan. His ongoing initiatives include improving car seat safety, increasing the number of EMTs in Michigan and creating a trigger lock program in Michigan hospitals.
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