North Carolina’s Smart Heart Act changed what every public school must do about sudden cardiac arrest. Beginning with the 2026–27 school year, AEDs are no longer a “nice to have” — they’re part of a required Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP). Here’s exactly what the law expects for AEDs on your campus.
What the Smart Heart Act requires for AEDs
Every North Carolina public school — traditional, charter, and regional — must place at least one automated external defibrillator (AED) on campus and keep it ready to use. The AED must be part of a written plan with trained responders, clear signage, and coordination with local EMS.
How many AEDs does a school need? The 3-minute rule
The guiding principle is the three-minute rule: anyone on campus should be able to reach an AED and return to the victim within three minutes. On a large or multi-building campus, one unit rarely covers that. Count travel time across athletic fields, gyms, and upper floors — not just square footage — when deciding how many you need.
Where to place AEDs
Placement matters as much as count. AEDs must be in unlocked, clearly signed, accessible locations — never behind a locked office door. High-traffic and high-risk areas (gyms, athletic facilities, cafeterias, main entrances) come first. Add wall signage so a responder can find the nearest unit at a glance.
Maintenance and documentation
An AED only saves a life if it works. Keep pads and batteries in date, log routine inspections, and keep records you can show your board or the state. Documentation is part of compliance — not an afterthought.
How AEDs fit your CERP
AED placement is one piece of a compliant plan. See our step-by-step guide on how to build a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP), learn about AED grants and funding for NC schools, or grab the free checklist on our Smart Heart Act compliance page.
Not sure your AED coverage is compliant? Rescue Beats maps campus coverage, places and maintains AEDs, and gets your school CERP-ready. Call or text (919) 372-9657 or book a free review.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Confirm your school’s specific obligations with the NC Department of Public Instruction or legal counsel.