High schools and middle schools throughout Sampson County are now safer because of new life-saving equipment.

Sampson County schools recently announced that it received eight Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) through the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. According to a news release from Sampson County Schools, the buildings will be outfitted with technology to help create a heart safe environment for not only students and staff, but everyone visiting the buildings.

Dr. Eric Bracy, superintendent of Sampson County Schools, showed appreciation for the donation from the foundation.

“Through their generous community support, our schools will be able to have life-saving equipment that will benefit all people who visit our facilities,” Bracy said.

The AEDs will be supplied by the Cardiac Science Corporation in four high schools and four middle schools. Schools receiving an AED are Hobbton High School, Lakewood High School, Midway High School, Union High School, Hobbton Middle School, Midway Middle School, Union Middle School and Roseboro-Salemburg Middle School. These schools host a variety of sporting events and after-school programs. Officials said the devices will also benefit community members.

Kim Jackson, lead nurse for Sampson Schools, said the district has a policy regarding the AEDs. Many of the school nurses are certified by the American Heart Association instructors and know how to use the equipment.

“We have AEDs during the school day or after school hours for any activities on school grounds,” Jackson said. “The school athletic directors also have access to it when their at games.”

The goal for the district is to have one in every school. School officials said grant was a major part of reaching that goal. Since Firehouse started its Foundation, more than $25 million was granted for equipment, training, and support to schools and emergency first responders.

“It’s an excellent community service to make sure the students, staff, parents and family members who come to our school are safe,” Jackson said.

Bracy
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/web1_Dr.-Bracy-Picture-1.jpgBracy

By Chase Jordan

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Reach Chase Jordan at 910-249-4617. Follow us on Twitter at @SampsonInd and like us on Facebook.