Anyone can be the driving force to implement the Anyone Can Save A Life program in your school. But it’s the responsibility of the Activities Administrator to provide a coordinated response for after-school emergencies and to oversee this program.
Sometimes, the Activities Administrator will enlist the help of a Program Champion to organize training and implementation of the program. This Program Champion could be the school athletic trainer, school nurse, coach, community member or school administrator who knows the inner workings of the athletic and activities department.
Implementation requires three key components.
State high school athletic associations can coordinate and support the implementation at every member high school in their state by:
- Introducing the program to schools.
- Determining how schools will be held accountable for implementation.
- Training school administrators on implementation strategies.
- Creating a public awareness campaign to inform schools and the public about Anyone Can Save A Life and how this program brings real change to your school community.
I love the Anyone Can Save A Life program. It is thorough and easy for anyone to understand the implement. With this program, I know that everyone is on the same page; all teams have an emergency response plan and are ready if the unexpected happens. It goes over very well with people at all levels, administration, coaching staff, and student athletes. It is also detailed enough that it can be implemented at off-site locations. When our coaches and students know the importance of an EAP, they feel empowered and more confident to manage life-threatening situations. They also know what to look for to prepare themselves not only at a home even, but when they are the visitors as well.
The real stories and examples that are provided in the ACSAL material are extremely helpful reminders to the medical professional and the lay person that regular practice, review and preparation are essential to keep everyone safe.