The Hawaii High School Athletic Association (HHSAA) and Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA) donated 95 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to public and private high schools statewide.

The Hawaii high schools selected to receive the AEDs were based on their student population and how many AED devices they already have.

AEDs can help restore a normal heart rhythm during a sudden cardiac arrest by sending an electric shock to a victim to restore a heartbeat.

According to the American Heart Association, in one year alone, 475,000 Americans die from a cardiac arrest.

Globally, cardiac arrest claims more lives than colorectal cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, influenza, pneumonia, auto accidents, HIV, firearms, and house fires combined.

Once the AEDs are distributed to schools and training is conducted by HHSAA, the life-saving devices will be available for coaches and athletic trainers to use during Hawaii high school sporting events and practices.