NEWS

Canandaigua Emergency Squad offers lifesaving courses

Matt Sproul
Canandaigua Emergency Squad

Each year, we mark National CPR and AED Awareness week from June 1st to 7th. The week spotlights how lives can be saved if more Americans know cardiopulmonary resuscitation and how to use an automated external defibrillator. It also serves as a reminder for us to tell people all about the lifesaving skills courses we offer at Canandaigua Emergency Squad.

Why is learning CPR important? Because each year, more than 350,000 EMS-assessed out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States, and according to the American Red Cross, more than 1,600 people a day experience cardiac arrest. Knowing how to perform CPR and use an AED can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival.

With 70% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest happening at home, when you are called to administer life-saving CPR it will likely be for someone you love, so it’s important to know the signs and how to react. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating or beats too ineffectively to circulate blood to the brain and other vital organs. Signs of cardiac arrest include the person being unresponsive, even if you shake or shout at them, or the person is not breathing or only gasping. If you see someone collapse without warning, know your “Cardiac Arrest 1-2-3.

1) Call 9112) Start CPR3) Use an AED

At Canandaigua Emergency Squad, we are committed to training and educating as many community members as possible to be equipped with lifesaving skills in the event of emergency. The squad provides CPR and AED training for the community in small and large groups and one-on-one.

Canandaigua Emergency Squad

I encourage you to register yourself or attend a course with a friend or family member to get trained or recertified. Emergencies are inevitable; preparation is essential.

What will I learn?

Canandaigua Emergency Squad offers American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR, AED and First Aid that teaches students critical skills needed to respond to and manage an emergency until professional help arrives. Skills covered in this course include first aid, choking relief in adults, children and infants, and what to do for sudden cardiac arrest in adults, children and infants. The course allows instructors to observe, provide feedback and guide students to ensure proper techniques are applied.

How long is the class?

The length of AHA Heartsaver CPR, AED and First Aid is dependent on a multitude of factors, including class size and class level. On average, expect your certification class to take 3-5 hours.

Why is AED training included?

Research has shown that victims have a greater chance of surviving cardiac arrest when high-quality CPR includes use of an AED. We’ll train you on how and when to use this machine.

How long will I be certified for?

Community members who successfully complete the AHA Heartsaver CPR, AED and First Aid course will receive a course completion card that is valid for two years. We encourage individuals to get recertified every two years to refresh their skills.

What other training does CES offer?

In addition to CPR and AED training, Canandaigua Emergency Squad offers several other classes on lifesaving interventions that can be administered before an EMS crew arrives. Classes include AHA Basic Life Support, Stop the Bleed, Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support.

How can I sign up?

If you are interested in participating in a training, visit canandaiguaes.org and fill out a request form. We’re also happy to speak with you in person at the squad or via phone at 585-394-5860.

A Word from Chief Matt Sproul

Matt Sproul is chief of Canandaigua Emergency Squad (CES), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit unit that receives no tax-based support. CES responds to more than 6,000 calls per year serving the towns of Canandaigua, Hopewell, Gorham and Bloomfield and the village of East Bloomfield. East Bloomfield Volunteer Ambulance is a division of CES. For more information, go to canandaiguaes.org. If you have questions or want to get involved, send emails to info@canandaigues.org.

Sproul