The Northern Neck will be safer with the deployment of “state-of-the-art Zoll AED 3 Defibrillator units” by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. A total of four units are to be installed at Belle Isle State Park in Lancaster County, Westmoreland State Park in Westmoreland County, Tappahannock Soil and Water Division Office in Essex County, and Chesapeake Bay Region Natural Heritage Division’s supervisor vehicle.
Holly Grove Rescue Squad volunteer Jennifer Ford explains the necessity of AEDs:
AEDs can make a critical difference for someone in cardiac arrest while waiting for EMS to arrive.
“When time is crucial, this is going to save a life,” Ford said. “We can then support them and bring them to definitive care and to continue on their cardiac rehabilitation and journey, but this is the first step.
According to the American Heart Association, 9 in 10 cardiac arrest victims who receive a shock from an AED in the first minute live.
Ford said the legislation would help especially in rural areas. She said it can take up to 40 minutes for her rescue squad in Louisa County to reach a scene. (Source: ‘This is going to save a life’: Virginia bill would require AEDs at sporting facilities statewide)
State Senator Bill Stanley sponsored the legislation, SB87, Jack’s Law, Automated external defibrillators required at local government sporting events and sporting facilities. The legislation was a response to a real-life incident. Thankfully, namesake Jack survived the massive heart attack.
What follows are additional resources about the value of AEDs and their installation across the state.
- Read more about DCR’s installation.
- Read Senator Bill Stanley’s Weekly Column, Feb 26, 2026, Updated Mar 1, 2026.
- Bill drafted by wife of heart attack survivor unanimously passed by General Assembly
Photo courtesy of ZOLL Medical Corporation via DCR.
