Hannibal Public Schools installs weatherproof AED at sports venues
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Hannibal Public Schools installs weatherproof AED at sports venues
Hannibal Public Schools are installing new weatherproof automated external defibrillator (AED) cabinets at their sports venues. Having an AED on site means that if someone experiences a cardiac emergency, such as a heart attack, while at the track or field, immediate help is on hand. The life-saving equipment was obtained through a partnership with the Marion County Ambulance District.
Porter Stadium and Veterans Sports Complex will now house easily accessible AEDs for emergencies.
Having an AED on site means that if someone experiences a cardiac emergency, such as a heart attack, while at the track or field, immediate help is on hand even before first responders arrive.
“We felt there was a need for AEDs at those complexes because both those complexes are open to the public on the weekends and evenings. We had AEDs there previously, but they were behind locked doors and not everybody has a key to those doors, so we just thought it was important to have an AED available for 24/7,” said Clint Graham, the Hannibal School District Activities Director.
The life-saving equipment was obtained through a partnership with the Marion County Ambulance District.
“Right now, there’s a big push to get more AEDs more accessible throughout the community and not only at school districts but downtown and other historical places here in town,” Graham said.
Veterans Sports Complex has already installed their new weatherproof AED and Porter Stadium will install theirs closer to football season due to current construction at the stadium.
“I know there several years back we did have to use an AED at one of their youth football games, so it has been used at Porter. Personally, I haven’t had to use one and hope I never have to but they’re in place now in case the emergency does come up,” Graham said.
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Hannibal Public Schools install weatherproof AED cabinets at outdoor sports venues – Muddy River News
Hannibal Public Schools has installed two new weatherproof Automated External Defibrillator (AED) cabinets at its athletic facilities. The first AED cabinet has been installed and is accessible at the Veterans Sports Complex. A second unit will be accessible at Porter Stadium once ongoing construction projects related to Proposition Innovation are complete. Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. By deploying an AED quickly, bystanders can significantly increase a victim’s chances of survival while awaiting EMS personnel. The purchase and installation of these AEDs were made possible by the Marion County Ambulance District (MCAD).
This life-saving equipment was obtained through a partnership with the Marion County Ambulance District (MCAD), reflecting a shared commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness.
Key highlights of the initiative:
New Outdoor AED Installations: Two public-access AED units are being placed in weatherproof cabinets at HPS sports venues – one now active at the Veterans Sports Complex and another slated for Porter Stadium upon completion of stadium renovations. These cabinets are designed to protect the devices from the elements while ensuring24/7 availability.
Community Safety Enhancement: These sports facilities are frequently used by students and community members not only during school events but also during off-hours for exercise and recreation. Having an AED on site means that if someone experiences a cardiac emergency (such as sudden cardiac arrest) while at the track or field, immediate help is on hand even before first responders arrive. Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and the best chance for survival is rapid defibrillation.
An AED is a portable defibrillator device designed to help someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest by delivering an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. The devices are user-friendly; they provide step-by-step voice and visual instructions so even untrained bystanders can confidently use them in an emergency. By deploying an AED quickly, bystanders can significantly increase a victim’s chances of survival while awaiting EMS personnel.
The purchase and installation of these AEDs were made possible by the Marion County Ambulance District (MCAD).This effort aligns with MCAD’s initiative to improve access to critical life-saving AEDs in key locations throughout our community.
Clint Graham, HPS athletic director, highlighted the importance of public safety and having life-saving tools readily accessible at school and community facilities.
In a press release, Graham said, “The safety of our students, staff and community visitors is always our top priority. By installing these AEDs at these sports complexes, we’re ensuring that if a medical emergency occurs, whether it’s during a big game or when neighbors are using our track after hours, critical life-saving equipment is right there within reach. We’re incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Marion County Ambulance District in making this possible. It’s a great example of how working together can help protect our community and potentially save lives.”
Hannibal Public Schools remains committed to strengthening safety measures across all its campuses. The district will continue to seek opportunities to collaborate with community partners on initiatives that benefit the health and well-being of students, staff, and the public.
Source: https://www.wgem.com/2025/07/11/hannibal-public-schools-installs-weatherproof-aed-sports-venues/