The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) will be empowering Winnipeggers to help save the lives of those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest by implementing the use of the PulsePoint Respond App.
The app will alert CPR-Trained members of the public about cardiac arrest incidents within 500 metres of their location. It can also give them information on the location of the nearest Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
“There are thousands of CPR-trained Winnipeggers and I know many would gladly help save the life of a fellow resident if called upon”, said Mayor Brian Bowman. “CPR skills are ones you hope to never use, but early use of CPR, together with AED support, greatly improves the chances of surviving a cardiac arrest and this app will better connect those in need with those who have the skills to save a life.”
Each year WFPS respond to about 1,100 cardiac arrests through the 911 call centre. Of those about 300 happen in public places.
Although emergency crews respond immediately it could take several minutes for them to reach the victim and in the case of cardiac arrest each minute the patient waits for help can reduce their survivability by 10%.
“Once the heart stops pumping, seconds really do count. While our crews arrive quickly, we know that if administered immediately after cardiac arrest, CPR can double or triple a person’s chance of survival,” said WFPS Chief John Lane.
If you are trained in administering CPR the WFPS encourages you to download the app in the IOS or Android App Store and select the “Nearby CPR-Needed” notification in the app.
© News4.ca 2020
