Texas Leads the Way on Life-Saving Devices

Texas Takes Action on Choking Emergencies: How LifeVac Helps Schools Prepare

August 29th, 2025

When emergencies strike, seconds matter. Choking is one of the leading causes of accidental injury and death, particularly among young children. In schools, where hundreds or even thousands of students gather daily, being prepared for unexpected emergencies isn’t optional. It’s essential.

In 2025, Texas became the first state in the nation to require airway clearance devices (ACDs), like LifeVac, to be available in every public school under the Westyn Bryan Mandrell Act. This landmark decision is shaping the future of school safety and sparking conversations nationwide about how we protect our students.

In this blog, we’ll explore what the new law means, why ACDs are an important part of emergency preparedness, and how schools across the country can take steps to improve their safety measures.

The Westyn Bryan Mandrell Act: What You Need to Know

The Westyn Bryan Mandrell Act was signed into law in Texas to ensure that schools are better equipped to handle choking emergencies. Under this legislation:

Every Texas public school campus must have at least one FDA-approved airway clearance device available.
Staff members must be trained on when and how to use the device.
Schools are encouraged to integrate these devices into their broader emergency response plans.

Man experiencing a choking emergency, highlighting the importance of quick response and life-saving airway clearance devices like LifeVac.

This proactive step positions Texas as a leader in school safety, addressing a critical gap in emergency preparedness. While CPR and the Heimlich maneuver remain important, ACDs add a vital extra layer of protection when traditional methods fail.

Why Choking Emergencies Require Faster Solutions

Choking is a time-sensitive emergency. According to the National Safety Council, choking is the fourth leading cause of unintentional injury death in the U.S., and children are among the most at-risk groups.

In a choking incident:

Brain damage can begin in as little as four minutes without oxygen.
Traditional methods, like abdominal thrusts, aren’t always effective, especially for small children or individuals with certain medical conditions.
In chaotic environments like cafeterias or classrooms, every second of hesitation increases the risk of a tragic outcome.

That’s why Texas’ decision to mandate ACDs is such an important milestone. It ensures schools have a proven, simple, and effective tool to act fast and save lives.

How LifeVac Works in Schools

LifeVac is one of the leading airway clearance devices available today. Designed to be simple, portable, and non-invasive, it empowers school staff to respond effectively during choking emergencies.

Key benefits for schools:

No power source needed: LifeVac doesn’t require batteries or electricity.
Easy to use: Training takes only minutes, making it accessible for teachers, nurses, and other staff.
Non-invasive design: Eliminates the need for tools like forceps or advanced airway equipment.
Proven effectiveness: LifeVac has helped save hundreds of lives globally, including many children.

When paired with CPR and AED training, LifeVac helps schools create comprehensive emergency preparedness plans that address a wider range of life-threatening situations.

Texas Is Leading the Way. Who’s Next?

Texas’ move has sparked nationwide conversations about school safety policies. While it is the first state to require ACDs, it’s unlikely to remain the only one for long.

Other states are already evaluating similar legislation as schools and communities recognize the value of adding ACDs alongside AEDs and other emergency tools. For decision-makers in education, healthcare, public safety, and workplace safety, this is a critical moment to:

Review your current emergency response protocols.
Assess whether you have the tools needed for rapid intervention.
Stay informed about upcoming legislation and evolving safety standards.

Being proactive today can make a measurable difference tomorrow.

Best Practices for Schools Implementing LifeVac

For school administrators and safety coordinators preparing to comply with the new Texas law, or those aiming to stay ahead of similar legislation, here are a few practical tips:

LifeVac airway clearance device designed to quickly and safely remove airway obstructions during choking emergencies in schools, workplaces, and homes.

1. Train Staff Effectively

Provide short, hands-on training sessions so teachers, coaches, cafeteria workers, and nurses know exactly when and how to use LifeVac.

2. Integrate LifeVac Into Emergency Plans

Update your school safety policies to include ACDs alongside CPR, AED, and first aid procedures.

3. Conduct Regular Safety Drills

Incorporate choking-response scenarios into safety drills to ensure staff feel confident acting quickly.

4. Communicate With Parents

Reassure families that your school prioritizes safety and has invested in life-saving tools to protect their children.

5. Partner With Trusted Providers

Work with certified vendors to ensure you have FDA-approved devices, proper training materials, and ongoing support.

A Shared Responsibility: Building Safer Schools Together

Texas’ decision reflects a growing understanding that school safety is a shared responsibility. Teachers, administrators, parents, and lawmakers all play a role in ensuring students are protected when emergencies occur.

Equipping schools with tools like LifeVac is one step toward a broader culture of preparedness, one where prevention, training, and rapid response work hand in hand to save lives.

Be Ready When Every Second Counts

The Westyn Bryan Mandrell Act has set a new standard for school safety in Texas, but it also serves as a wake-up call for schools everywhere. Choking emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere, and being prepared can mean the difference between life and death.

By integrating tools like LifeVac into your school’s emergency response plans, you’re taking meaningful action to protect students, staff, and your entire community.