A plan on paper isn’t a plan until your team has practiced it. The Smart Heart Act calls for annual drills — here’s how to run a cardiac emergency drill that actually prepares your school.
Why drills matter
In a real sudden cardiac arrest, people freeze. A drill builds the muscle memory so your response team moves fast: someone calls 911, someone starts CPR, someone runs for the nearest AED. Practice turns a document into a response.
How to run a drill
- Pick a realistic scenario and location (gym, field, hallway).
- Activate the response team exactly as your CERP describes.
- Time it — can someone retrieve an AED and return within three minutes?
- Practice CPR and AED pad placement on a manikin.
- Debrief: what worked, what was slow, what to fix.
- Log the drill and update the plan.
How often and who
Run at least one drill a year, and include the full response team plus key staff. Keep it short and repeatable. Document each drill as part of your compliance records.
Need help running one?
Rescue Beats runs drills with your team and keeps you audit-ready. Call or text (919) 372-9657 or book a free review. Related: training requirements and AED maintenance.
General information, not legal advice. Confirm your school’s obligations with the NC Department of Public Instruction or legal counsel.