Nearly two years ago, my 3-year-old son drowned in a jacuzzi. There was no AED on site. He survived—but now faces a long and difficult journey to relearn how to walk, talk, and live independently. As a parent and a first responder, I know that an AED could have made a critical difference in those early moments. This petition is not just policy—it’s personal. I’m fighting for my son, and for every child who deserves a real chance at survival.

Every year, children across California are at risk of drowning due to inadequate emergency preparedness at swimming pools. My own 3-year-old son suffered a non-fatal drowning that left him severely brain-injured. I am also a first responder, and I know how critical every second is during a water emergency.

We call on you to mandate Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) at all public and private swimming pools in California.

AEDs are life-saving devices proven to significantly increase survival rates when used during cardiac arrest—a frequent outcome in drowning cases. According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR combined with AED use can double or even triple the chances of survival.

Currently, there is no legislation in California requiring AEDs at private pools or community swimming areas. This gap is putting lives—especially children’s lives—at unnecessary risk.

This must change.

AEDs are:

 • Affordable

 • Easy to use with step-by-step audio and visual instructions

 • Scientifically proven to save lives

The cost of installing AEDs is minimal compared to the priceless value of a human life. Communities across the country and the world have already made this investment. It’s time California does the same.

By signing this petition, we urge lawmakers to:

 • Introduce and support legislation requiring AEDs at all public and private pools

 • Protect children and families from preventable tragedy

 • Ensure California leads the way in pool safety and emergency readiness

Let’s take this vital step—before another life is lost.

Sign now to demand action. Lives depend on it.