OHSAA Implements New Training For Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Effective August 1st, 2017 all athletes, coaches, and parents will be required to be in compliance with a new standard set forth by the OHSAA regarding sudden cardiac arrest, also known has Lindsay’s Law. Senate Bill 252 is named for national heart health advocate and former Miss Ohio Lindsay Davis who suffers from a heart condition and has since dedicated her career to raising awareness of this potentially fatal condition. “Sudden cardiac arrest is the number one killer of student athletes,” said Davis. “At any moment, I could have died because coaches and teachers had no idea this was even a possibility for someone who looked as healthy as I did at that age.” Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating, cutting off the blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Sudden cardiac arrest is fatal if not treated immediately, most often with a defibrillator. Coaches (paid or volunteer) of any interscholastic sport and who are licensed by the Department of Education in the state of Ohio must review a video, read an informational handout, and complete a test regarding the nature and warning signs of cardiac arrest. For parents/guardians and student athletes they must also watch a video, review an informational handout, and sign a form to be in compliance with the new law. All of these educational materials are free of charge and are the only materials that are authorized to be in compliance with the new law. They can be found on the OHSAA website or check the athletic website of your school. The latest statistics available show the average age that sudden cardiac death occurs in young athletes is 17.5 years old with one young athlete dying suddenly every three days in the United States.