St. John Ambulance calls on Canada to learn CPR this month

First aid charity asks people to devote time during November CPR Month to learn life-saving skills

OTTAWA, Nov. 3, 2014 /CNW/ - St. John Ambulance, Canada's premier first aid training organization, is calling on Canada to commit to taking CPR and first aid training throughout November in recognition of CPR Month.

Each year, St. John Ambulance certifies more than 550,000 Canadians in first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), and is the only national first aid training provider recognized in every Canadian province and territory.

Heart attacks are a leading cause of death in Canada. Recognizing the early signs of a cardiovascular emergency can save a life. If a heart attack leads to cardiac arrest, performing CPR and applying an automated external defibrillator (AED) can potentially save a life.

This month, make a difference by learning the first-aiders' role in the Chain of Survival™

1.	Immediate Recognition - of heart attack signs and quickly getting help. This may be the toughest job you have to do. When someone complains of chest pain, consider it a serious problem. Ask questions and call for help right away.
2.	Early CPR - with an emphasis on chest compressions. If a person is unconscious and stops breathing, these steps must be started immediately:
	Place the person on their back on a firm, flat surface Place your hands on centre of their chest Position your shoulders directly over your hands; keep your elbows locked Compress 30 times; push hard - push fast Tilt the head back to open airway Pinch the nose and make a tight seal over the mouth Give two breaths Continue cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help arrives, the casualty responds, or an AED instructs you to stop
3.	Rapid Defibrillation - Apply the AED as soon as possible. It will monitor the heart rhythm and decide if the shock is necessary.
Chain of Survival^® is a registered trademark of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

ABOUT ST. JOHN AMBULANCE: St. John Ambulance is an international humanitarian organization and is a foundation of the Order of St. John. As Canada's standard for excellence in first aid and CPR services, St. John Ambulance offers innovative programs, ensuring Canadians receive the best quality training. Revenue generated from first aid/CPR training supports St. John Ambulance's charitable work in Canada and around the world.

Visit www.sja.ca  https://www.facebook.com/SJACanada http://twitter.com/sja_canada

Image with caption: "With proper first aid and CPR training, Canadians can be prepared to help save lives at work, home and play. (CNW Group/St. John Ambulance - National Office)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20141103_C9318_PHOTO_EN_43162.jpg

SOURCE: St. John Ambulance - National Office

Clara Wicke, Director of Marketing and Communications
St. John Ambulance, National Office
613-236-1283 x 261
Cell: 613-853-6123
[email protected]

Shawn McLaren, Director of Operations & Learning
St. John Ambulance, Council for Federal District
613-722-2002 x 214
[email protected]