A significant portion of American society, at least those interested in professional football, got a real wake-up call on January second in Cincinnati. That’s when Buffalo Bills Safety Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest following a direct hit in his chest. Immediate CPR is credited with saving his life.
Lynne Washbish is the director of the Red Cross Bluegrass Chapter. She said the traumatic incident on the football field has generated more interest in CPR.
“Yes, we have had some increase since Damar Hamlin went down. However, we do feel that having yourself certified in CPR, first aid, and AED is important no matter what,” said Washbish.
AED is an automated external defibrillator, the device used to shock the heart back into a beating pattern. An AED was administered to Hamlin following his heart stoppage. Washbish said CPR classes are offered through the Red Cross. She noted refresher courses in CPR are a good idea.
“Yeah, our certifications last two years so you should get recertified every two years, so that you can stay prepared in the event that you’re in the midst of an emergency. It could be something that you’re out in the public or it could be something at home with your significant other, grandchildren, or children. So, it’s important to be trained,” said Washbish.
The Red Cross executive said most participants take part online for a portion of the instruction and then come to the Newtown Pike Office in Lexington for the breathing and chest compression training.
