The Hamilton School District extends its sincere gratitude to the community organizations, families and individual donors whose generosity made it possible to install two publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at Hamilton High School’s outdoor athletic facilities.
Thanks to the support of the Sussex Lions Club, Jr. Charger Football, Sussex Area Service Club (SASC) and numerous community members, these lifesaving devices are now available to serve student-athletes, families and spectators who utilize Hamilton’s outdoor facilities.
“This project demonstrates what can happen when a community comes together around a common goal,” said Hamilton Athletics and Activities Director Jeff Newcomer. “We are incredibly thankful for the organizations and individuals who recognized the importance of making AEDs readily available. Their support has helped make our facilities safer for not only our 800 student athletics, but for everyone who visits our campus.”
The AEDs are housed in highly visible yellow outdoor cabinets and are located at both Grove Stadium and Halquist Youth Complex. These do not only serve high school athletic practices but youth football, flag football, softball, tennis and other groups and events. The devices will be accessible from March through November each year. During winter months, the AEDs will be stored indoors to protect the equipment.
“When Hamilton High School brought this AED proposal to us, it was a clear yes,” explains Sussex Area Service Club Member Casey Berrall. “Our group of local volunteers is focused on identifying needs in our community and addressing them. In an emergency, having an AED nearby can mean everything. We’re proud to support this effort,” Berrall adds.
In the event of an emergency, coaches and authorized personnel have been provided access information for the cabinets. Individuals who do not know the cabinet access code can call 911, provide the AED cabinet location and emergency dispatchers will supply the code while assisting with emergency response instructions.
“The Jr. Chargers Football program is committed to supporting the health and growth of children in our community,” explains Jr. Chargers Football Executive Director Steve Coppersmith. “By contributing toward the AED initiative, we were able to help ensure programs that support kids of all ages and utilize common facilities have access to crucial lifesaving resources.”
Publicly accessible AEDs have become an increasingly important safety measure at schools, parks and recreational facilities nationwide. Hamilton’s community partners have helped ensure that critical lifesaving equipment is available when seconds matter most.
Sussex Lions Club President Robin Bates points out that supporting this AED initiative rings true to their motto. “Our Lions Club motto is ‘We Serve,” shares Bates. “There is no better way to serve our community than by protecting our kids. Games bring families out to these fields every week. This donation gives parents and coaches peace of mind knowing that if a medical emergency happens, they have the tools right on hand to save a life,” she adds.