Getting There Takes Time, Learning CPR Improves Survival Rates: BFD

BRANFORD, CT — Tens of millions watched in horror as Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin collapsed. And millions more prayed that he'd survive. Were it not for the immediate medical treatment he received on the field that day earlier this month, well, the outcome may have been tragically different. As it is, Hamlin not only survived, but is apparently thriving. And that, again, is due to the life-saving measures taken at once.

This dramatic fact was not lost on Branford firefighters, who hosted a Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation class this week.

"A large portion of the country witnessed the recent dramatic collapse of Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin whose life was saved by trainers and EMS personnel skilled in Advanced Cardiac Life Support beginning with CPR," the department noted on a Facebook post.

Branford fire lead EMS educator Firefighter/Paramedic Garrett Lizee and his "talented cadre of certified instructors" led the class.

First responders bring "the emergency room to your doorstep, but it takes time to get to you," it was noted. "Learning and practicing CPR helps us give someone their best chance of survival."

CPR is on of the American Heart Association’s six links in the cardiac arrest chain of survival.

The 6 links in the adult out-of-hospital Chain of Survival are:

• Recognition of cardiac arrest and activation of the emergency response system (calling 9-1-1 in the US)
• Early CPR with an emphasis on chest compressions
• Rapid defibrillation
• Advanced resuscitation by Emergency Medical Services and other healthcare providers
• Post-cardiac arrest care Recovery (including additional treatment, observation, rehabilitation, and psychological support)

A strong Chain of Survival can improve chances of survival and recovery for victims of cardiac arrest, the Branford Fire Department reminds.

Learn more here: https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/what-is-cpr