Richland School District is proud to announce that Desert Sky Elementary is now a Heart Safe Campus!
This achievement highlights the district’s dedication to the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and the entire community.
Josh Smith, Fire Captain for Richland Fire and Emergency Services, along with his Heart Safe team, trained Desert Sky staff in hands-only CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Following the training, a smaller Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT), consisting of school nurses, teachers, and administrators, developed an Emergency Response Plan tailored to the specific needs of Desert Sky Elementary. The final step toward certification was the successful completion of two drills, where the team effectively deployed, located, and activated the AED, delivering a shock to the mannequin in 1 minute and 52 seconds. In youth cardiac arrest cases, the AED needs to be applied within 4 minutes, which results in a 90% survival rate.
The staff at Desert Sky Elementary are now fully equipped to recognize and respond to cardiac arrest emergencies, increasing the chances of survival and reducing the potential for long-term health impacts. This not only enhances safety within the school but also empowers staff with life-saving skills they can use beyond the school environment.
AEDs have been strategically placed throughout Desert Sky to ensure they are easily accessible in an emergency. These devices can deliver a controlled electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.
To earn Heart Safe certification, at least 70% of school staff must be trained in hands-only CPR and AED use. Additionally, two drills are required annually, AEDs must be accessible and deployed within 3 minutes from anywhere in the building, and a comprehensive Emergency Response Plan must be established.
To learn more about Heart Safe Richland, please visit www.heartsaferichland.com.