Hockey Rink Heart Attacks Highlight the Need for Public Defibrillators

Two cardiac emergencies at hockey rinks in Newfoundland have drawn renewed attention to the critical role of public defibrillators in saving lives.

In one incident in St. John’s, a hockey player collapsed on the ice after suffering sudden cardiac arrest. An off-duty firefighter quickly intervened, using an automated external defibrillator (AED) to restart the man’s heart. Just days earlier, another player in Gander was saved when immediate CPR was provided during a similar emergency. Both individuals are now recovering.

These back-to-back incidents clearly demonstrate how rapid response, CPR training, and access to AEDs can mean the difference between life and death. The full details of these events were originally reported by CBC News and can be read here: 👉 Hockey rink heart attacks show need for public defibrillators

Why Public Defibrillators Matter

The incidents have reinforced the importance of having trained individuals nearby and easy access to life-saving equipment. While all hockey rinks in Newfoundland and Labrador are now equipped with AEDs, health advocates say safety measures should extend well beyond sports arenas.

According to Mary Ann Butt, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador, defibrillators should be available in all buildings used by the public.

She notes that Newfoundland and Labrador experiences up to 800 cardiac arrests each year, with approximately 85 per cent occurring outside of hospital settings—making rapid public response essential.

CPR and AEDs Save Lives

Time is the most critical factor during cardiac arrest. For every minute without treatment, the chance of survival drops significantly.

“When CPR and an AED are used together within the first few minutes, survival rates can reach as high as 75 per cent,” Butt explained.

Since 2010, more than 170 AEDs have been installed in hockey rinks across the province, making Newfoundland and Labrador the first province in Canada to ensure every stadium is equipped with a defibrillator. Multiple lives have already been saved through the use of public AEDs.

Be Ready to Act in an Emergency

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere—at a rink, workplace, school, or community gathering. While AEDs are vital, trained bystanders are just as important.

Learning CPR and how to properly use an AED allows everyday people to act confidently when seconds matter. If you want to be prepared to respond during an emergency, consider enrolling in a CPR and AED training course through Winnipeg First Aid.

Proper training helps you recognize cardiac arrest, perform effective CPR, and use an AED safely—skills that can truly save a life.

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

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Last reviewed: March 2026

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