World Restart a Heart Day highlights the province's need for action

TORONTO, Oct. 16, 2026 /CNW/ -- On World Restart a Heart Day, Heart & Stroke is urging the Ontario government to require and fund registered automated external defibrillators (AED) in every school through regulations under the Defibrillator Registration and Public Access Act. The act was passed in 2020 and established an AED registrar, but regulations are still needed to set clear, consistent standards for where AEDs must be placed and maintained across Ontario.

Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere and at any age—including children and youth. When the heart suddenly stops beating, every minute matters: recognizing cardiac arrest, calling 911, starting CPR and using an AED can double the chances of survival.

Tricia Stanton knows why that protection matters. Her 14-year-old son, Ben, experienced a sudden cardiac arrest while at high school in Markham. Although the school did have an AED, cardiac arrest was not recognized quickly enough, the AED was not suggested by dispatch and as a tragic result, Ben passed away.

"No family should have to wonder whether their loved one might have survived if better awareness, systems coordination and equipment had been in place," says Stanton. "Ben's story shows that having an AED is only part of the solution. Every Ontario school needs an accessible, maintained and publicly registered AED—and students and staff need the knowledge and confidence to recognize cardiac arrest, call 911, start CPR and use AEDs."

The need is significant: approximately 20,000 cardiac arrests occur in Ontario each year, and fewer than one in 10 people survive when cardiac arrest happens outside of a hospital. Schools are high-traffic community hubs where students, staff and visitors gather for classes, sports and after-hours activities. Physical activity can also elevate risk for people with underlying heart conditions, which may be undiagnosed in young people.

"Ontario has an important opportunity to ensure AED legislation results in more lives saved among our youngest citizens," says Dr. Lesley James, Director of Health Policy and Systems for Ontario at the Heart & Stroke Foundation. "Regulations should require AEDs in every school, ensure they are maintained and registered with the province so 911 dispatchers can help callers geo-locate them, and be supported by standardized CPR and AED skills training. These practical steps will help create heart-safe schools and communities."

Ontario has already recognized the life-saving value of AED access by mandating devices at construction sites in 2026. Public support for broader action is also strong: a 2026 poll found that 89% of Ontario respondents supported requiring AEDs in high-traffic spaces, including all schools, while 84% agreed government should help fund their purchase. Many Canadian provinces require AEDs in schools and fund their placement, ensuring AEDs are universally accessible.

About Heart & Stroke 

Life. We don't want you to miss it. That's why Heart & Stroke has been leading the fight to beat heart disease and stroke for more than 70 years. We must generate the next medical breakthroughs, so Canadians don't miss out on precious moments. Together, with the generous support of our donors, partners and volunteers we are working to prevent disease, save lives and promote recovery through research, health promotion and public policy. heartandstroke.ca @heartandstroke #StrokeMonth  

SOURCE Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada