HILTON, N.Y. (WROC) — Legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in November took effect this week.
Camps and youth sports programs in New York State are now required to establish an automated external defibrillator or AED implementation plan.
Grace and Truth Sports Park in Hilton operates on 96 acres of land. That’s why Park Director Tom Street told News 8 it was essential to already have an AED on hand.
“Why not? It’s such a small investment. But if it saves someone’s life, it’s totally worth it,” Street said.
And with recent events, it made the decision a no brainer.
Damar Hamlin timeline from injury to return to Bills
“We all saw Damar Hamlin, we all witnessed that. I actually had a friend who was at the School [No. 33] game when the kid collapsed on the court,” Street said.
‘You have to act:’ How two men saved Rochester teen who collapsed during game
That is also what pushed the legislation forward. Camps and youth sports programs are now required to establish AED implementation plans and have at least one person trained to properly use the AED at camps, games, and practice.