Carlsbad Fire Teaching CPR in 10 Minutes By the Beach

Carlsbad firefighters will demonstrate the latest lifesaving CPR techniques Thursday during "Sidewalk CPR Day."  

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 7, on the lawn at Carlsbad Boulevard and Pine Avenue.  

"We can show people how to do hands-only CPR in about 10 minutes," said City of Carlsbad Emergency Medical Services Manager Linda Allington. "We encourage people to stop by when they are out and about, or during lunch. This simple lesson can help save the life of someone you love."    

Hands-only CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a method of applying chest compressions without giving mouth-to-mouth breaths.  

Allington says that recent studies have shown that rhythmic chest compressions alone can save lives, and firefighters will demonstrate the hands-only technique at Thursday's event. Hands-only CPR can be used on anyone who is unresponsive and not breathing. It is most effective on adults who suddenly collapse, and it is better to start hands-only CPR than to do nothing at all.  

Allington advises to call 911 if you see someone collapse and stop breathing, but that applying CPR can help prolong that person's life while you wait for paramedics to arrive.   Allington said that knowing CPR is valuable for everyone.   "Eighty percent of cardiac arrests occur in the home," Allington said.   The is partnering with San Diego County EMS to offer the Sidewalk CPR training.