Alert, Massage, Defibrillate: the three key steps to saving lives in the event of a cardiac arrest in Monaco
The Alpes-Maritimes Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging people to download the Staying Alive app and learn the right actions to take to save lives.
Here is some advice from SDIS 06 on how to be prepared to respond to a life-threatening emergency.
I recognise
How can I recognise a cardiac arrest? The person is not speaking and does not respond to stimulation, whether by voice or touch. They are not breathing: their chest is not moving and no air is coming out of their mouth. I then begin chest compressions, whilst calling the emergency services or ensuring someone else does so.
I raise the alarm
I dial 112 on my mobile, even if I have no signal with my network provider. I put my phone on speakerphone and place it on the floor, give my address and answer any questions, without stopping the chest compressions.
I perform chest compressions
I position myself facing the person, with both arms outstretched, and press down on the patient’s chest with both hands. I press quickly and firmly! I perform compressions at a rate of around 100 compressions per minute, in time with the Bee Gees’ song ‘Staying Alive’. I never stop chest compressions until the emergency services or another bystander have taken over. And I do not perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
I use a defibrillator
I attach the electrodes to the chest, as indicated on the electrodes themselves or on the device. Then I follow the voice instructions given by the defibrillator. They are mainly located in public spaces, stadiums, secondary schools, supermarkets, block of flats… You can find them on the Staying Alive app.
I sign up
To be ready to respond in the event of a life-threatening emergency, I download the Staying Alive app and sign up, attaching a photo of my training certificate. I keep my location services and notification permissions enabled. The fire service will be able to alert me if an emergency arises nearby. However, I am free to decline the call-out.
Read the original article at Moncao Matin