CHARDON, Ohio — Following the terrifying events of Bills safety Damar Hamlin, one local fire department is encouraging everyone to get trained in basic life-saving skills.
Hamlin collapsed on the field during Monday night’s football game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Medical personnel administered him CPR, and he was transported to a local hospital, which is where he is as of Wednesday. Officials said he suffered a cardiac arrest.
Firefighter and paramedic John Blauch said what happened to Hamlin was scary, but it was also teachable.
“He had all of the things in place there that gave him the best shot of being saved,” said Blauch.
Many times, though, cardiac arrest happens when immediate medical attention is not available.
“If you’ve never taken a CPR class, now’s your chance,” said Blauch. “Even if it’s on YouTube, on a three-minute video, if you have an AED at your establishment, find out.”
Knowing basic life-saving skills is the first step that could make the difference in life or death. If someone is experiencing a cardiac arrest, Blauch explained the first step is to call 911, then begin CPR.
“So we take the heel of our hand, put it in the center of the chest right on the breastbone. We take these fingers and interlock them and then we get over the person and we begin compressing,” Blauch explained.
Once compressions begin, Blauch said don’t stop, but make sure someone is bringing you an AED. Once the AED arrives, the device will talk you through what to do.
Blauch acknowledged that what happened with Hamlin is scary, but said he hopes the public takes the opportunity to know what to do should you find yourself in this situation.
“It’s one of those situations where we really want the public to kind of take heed and wake up,” Blauch said.
For those looking to get AED and CPR certified, local Red Cross facilities may offer classes. CPR Certification Cleveland, in partnership with the Red Cross, also offers classes.
