HOW TO HELP

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that can strike without warning, as was the case for Terry Kerr.

It affects people of all ages and all fitness levels. If you see someone collapse and remain unresponsive, here are some simple steps recommended by the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Yell for help: If there are people around, tell someone to call 911 and get an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), if one is available. If you are alone, call 911 and get an AED (if one is available).

Check breathing: If the person isn’t breathing or is only gasping, give CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).

Push hard and push fast: Use an AED as soon as it arrives by turning it on and following the prompts; keep pushing until the person starts to breathe or move or someone with more advanced medical training can take over.

CPR is an emergency procedure that is used to restore blood flow to someone who is in cardiac arrest. Without proper blood flow, the brain and organs can be seriously damaged and the person can die within minutes. CPR can help to maintain blood flow and ventilation for a short period of time for a person in cardiac arrest.

First aid is the first step in the process of assessing and addressing the medical needs of someone who has been injured or is in distress due to a heart attack, stroke, choking or other medical emergency. Being trained in first-aid techniques helps a person to determine the immediate course of treatment required until advanced medical help arrives.

SEVERAL ORGANIZATIONS PROVIDE TRAINING LOCALLY, INCLUDING:

Canadian Red Cross St. John Ambulance City of Ottawa