USCG

April 29, 2013 – The US Coast Guard in Clearwater Florida calls on In-Pulse CPR to train about 50 personnel.

New Grade School Mandate for Minnesota: Students must be CPR trained!

A new law, passed by Governor Mark Dayton on April 23, 2012 (H.F. 2509/S.F. 1908), will require that school age students learn to use an external defibrillator, as well as receive hands-on training of CPR practices, at least once before they graduate.  It is recognized that students can, and do save lives with knowledge and use of CPR skills.  In 30 minutes or less, millions of potential heroes can be created. By learning CPR, you can be prepared to save the life of a man, woman or child, and it only takes about 30 minutes to learn the technique.

A heart attack can be fatal without the life saving interference of CPR. Each year, EMS teams respond to close to 300,000 calls related to heart attacks. It has been determined that the national survival rate for a heart attack is only 7%.

The biggest reason for the low survival rate is lack of interference by bystanders. Less than one-third of out-of-hospital cardiac victims receive CPR. This means, bystander participation is low when a cardiac crisis happens.

Low participation is partly due to bystanders not knowing how to perform CPR. When you have the skills to perform CPR, you will be more apt to step up and help, if you encounter someone in cardiac distress.

Performing CPR isn’t just for adults. School age children can learn CPR techniques in 30 minutes or less, and well enough to achieve the skills to perform adequate, life sustaining intervention.

School age children can perform CPR on a heart victim with the right training. And school age children can receive training, and become skilled in CPR through a self-directed, video-based program. This self-directed program is DVD-based, and requires the use of mannequin dummies for learning chest compressions.   The American Heart Association has been a strong advocate for CPR training for Minnesota school age students and is pleased that this new bill has been passed.

In-Pulse CPR, Inc., a local American Heart Training Center, is looking forward to the challenge in training additional instructors to meet the upcoming training demand for Minnesota schools.

As of now, only a small number of Minnesota schools offer CPR training. Those that do are required to follow nationally recognized guidelines. Eventually, as of 2014-15 school year, all Minnesota public schools will be required to offer this important training to 7th through 12th grade students at least once before one can graduate.  Schools will be required to provide training as part of the school’s curriculum.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CPR training requirement for H.O.P.E School Children in Florida

The H.O.P.E. program (Health Opportunities through Physical Education) is an educational elective for Florida school students that allows them to personally experience all the benefits of routine exercise, proper nutritional choices, and overall good-health decisions through a combination of health and physical education.  It enables students to get a better understanding of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle that will influence them the rest of their lives.

Through the H.O.P.E. program, students will be required to attend an approved American Heart CPR training class.  It has been found that even students can intervene and perform CPR on someone in cardiac distress.  Quick action can increase a heart victim’s chances of survival.

Statistics show that once trained in CPR, you are more likely to use your knowledge and skills in an emergency situation.  Taking a CPR course; like the one offered through In-Pulse CPR (an approved American Heart CPR training provider), can give you the skills and the confidence you need to “act” in an emergency situation.

 

Search for local American Heart public CPR classes now

 

EMS (Emergency Medical Service) teams across the country respond to a high number of cardiac calls every year.  Each year, approximately 300,000 calls go out to our EMS teams due to men, women, even children in cardiac distress, and in need of medical attention.

With proper training and quick intervention by bystanders, survival rates are greater for the patient.  Those bystanders often include school age students.  Everyone, young and old, can be trained in CPR so that should an emergency situation arise, you are prepared to help.

The In-Pulse CPR classes are thorough and run for either 4 or 6 hours, depending if First Aid training is needed.  By using the latest up-to-date training materials and a teaching style that engages the student will ensure each attendee learns the necessary skills.  The classes are fun also!  At the end of the class, you will be provided with a two-year American Heart certification.  In-Pulse CPR offers training classes throughout Florida.

Did you know that less than one-third of heart attacks that happen with bystanders nearby, receive help from a bystander?  Many times this is because bystanders don’t know how to perform CPR.  They haven’t had training in CPR.  You can make a difference by getting trained in CPR through an American Heart Center like In-Pulse CPR.  You never know when your CPR skills will come in handy.  When you are trained in CPR, you are confident, and more apt to step-up and help in an emergency situation.

 

 Search for local American Heart public CPR classes now

 

 

In-Pulse CPR gaining AHA Training Center status!

December 14, 2012.  After over a year in the works, Florida based In-Pulse CPR, Inc enters into an agreement with the American Heart Association to become an official AHA Training Center(TC).  Troy Bowman, a spokesman for the company states, “We are now in a position to better provide for our instructors and students”.  Their agreement allows them to oversee Training Sites (TS) and to better support instructors while continuing offering training in Minnesota, Florida, and Pennsylvania.  Mr Bowman states that obtaining this status was far more difficult than he had planned.  In the past, Training Center status was far easier to obtain than it is today.  The AHA now looks at many factors including the companies history, marketing plans, past and expected future growth, and stability of a company/organization seeking Training Center status.  Mollie Bowman is the appointed Training Center Coordinator (TCC), an important role, as she is responsible for all instructors who are a part of the Training Center in following proper AHA guidelines.

 

 

###

Minnesota Board of Pharmacy approves In-Pulse CPR for Continuing Education Course Credits

In-Pulse CPR, Inc. is now approved to offer Continuing Education Credits for all Pharmacist in the state of Minnesota by attending any of our public BLS Healthcare CPR courses within the state.

In-Pulse CPR offers Healthcare CPR classes at over 13 locations in the Twin Cities, St Cloud, and Duluth.

 

View our calendar now of public CPR classes

 

 

Date:  November 6, 2012

In-Pulse CPR, Inc is pleased to announce The Continuing Education Advisory Task Force to the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy recently reviewed the Continuing Education course In-Pulse CPR submitted as shown below and will recommend that the Board of Pharmacy approve it for the number of hours indicated.

Program# :  3-112-495-01000

Title:   AHA, BLS, CPR for the Healthcare Professional

Dates:  Varies

Credit Hours:  4

Type:  Seminar

Signed,

Cody Wiberg
Executive Director of the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy
Minneapolis MN.

Key words:  pharmacy technician, pharmacist, pharmaceutical and health care industry professional, Staff Pharmacist, CEU’s CEC’s

Ten GREAT Reasons to Drink Water


Fresh, clean water, the great wellspring of life, is so simple it is often overlooked. The human body is comprised of anywhere between 55% – 78% water. The brain alone consists of 90% water, the blood 83%, muscle 75% and bone 22%.

 

Water is essential for life, even more so than food. Most human beings can go weeks, even months without food but only a few days without adequate water. Water lost through normal bodily activities must be replaced. Lack of water leads to dehydration, a potentially life threatening condition. Every cell in the human body is dependent on water to function properly. Here are just a few great reasons to drink water:

· Water assists the body in nutrient absorption
· Water regulates body temperature
· Water protects vital organs
· Water detoxifies
· Water protects and lubricates joints
· Water transports oxygen to the cells
· Water helps with metabolism
· Water moisturizes the air in the lungs
· Water helps keep the skin (the body’s largest organ) vital
· Water promotes regularity

How Much Water Should You Drink?

We lose water everyday through perspiration, breath, urine and bowl movements. Although there is no hard and fast rule for how much water you should consume daily, there is a general rule of thumb. An easy amount to remember is half of your body weight in ounces per day.

Drink More Water If

· The weather is hot and humid
· You are exercising
· You have an illness with fever, vomiting or diarrhea
· You have dry indoor air
· You are at a high altitude

 

The Dangers of Contaminated Water

Some water is undeniably better than other water. Experts report that contaminated water kills more people than violence or war. The best source of water is one that filters out the bad and leaves the good. Never assume that your local water source is free of contaminants. Some of the dangers floating in unfiltered tap water include:

· Chlorine
· Fluoride
· Rocket Fuel
· Heavy Metals
· Drugs and Hormonally Active Chemicals

 

Camping Safety Tips

Camping is an activity that’s enjoyed by millions every year, and the best thing about this activity is that it can be enjoyed year round – winter, spring, summer and fall.

So, whether you plan on roughing it in a tent or planning a family outing to a national park, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t make safety your #1 priority.

To have an enjoyable and safe camping experience, consider the following safety tips:

  • Remember to pack a first aid kit.  You never know if you or a member of your camping group will end up getting stung by a bee and suffer from an allergic reaction.  Or one of you may end up falling and getting injured.  It’s always best to be prepared if the unfortunate should happen.  Make sure to pack these items:  antiseptic wipes for cuts and scrapes, insect repellent, a snake bite kit, pain relievers, bandaids, antibacterial ointment, tweezers, and any medication that you’re currently on.  Be sure to always check the expiration dates before packing the medication and ointment.
  • Don’t forget to bring along emergency supplies.  These supplies include (but are not limited to): map, compass, flashlight, knife, warm clothing, whistle, water, high-energy food and a compact weather radio.
  • Find out the weather report before you leave, and be alert to approaching storms and seek shelter as necessary.
  • Before you leave for your camping trip, always tell someone where you’ll be and when you plan to return home.  This is just in case something happens and someone needs to come find you.
  • Arrive to your actual campsite before it starts getting dark.  This will give you time to check over the entire campsite and set it up.
  • Check for potential hazards at the campsite such as poison ivy, bees, wasps, branches, hazardous terrain, etc.
  • Always return back to your campsite before dark.
  • Be sure to familiarize yourself with poisonous plants in the area.  If you come into contact with any poisonous plants, rinse the affected area immediately with soap and water.
  • Avoid bugs such as hornets, bees, wasps and yellow jackets.  If you come into contact with these, never swat at them.  That’ll only aggravate them.  Simply push them away.  To avoid attracting these stinging insects, remember to never wear cologne or perfume.
  • Only build a fire in a safe area, away from your tent.  Also, you should never use a flame or any heating device inside your tent.  Use a battery-powered light instead.
  • Make sure your tent is made from a flame-retardant material.
  • Make sure your campfire is always attended to.  When you put the fire out, make sure you drown it with water and make sure all of the embers are wet.  This is VERY important because embers that are buried deep within the pile have a tendency to flame back up at a later time.
  • Use a propane stove as a cooking appliance ONLY.
  • To keep bears and other wildlife away, keep your campsite clean and your food securely packed away.
  • Your group should always decide on a meeting place in case one of you should become separated.

KEEPING SAFE WHILE BOATING IN TAMPA

 

First – Check the Weather Forecast

If you enjoy boating, then safety should be first and foremost in your mind when navigating the coastal waters of Tampa, Florida. Before you set out on any boating excursion then, you want to make sure that the weather stays pleasant. Therefore, don’t leave the dock without confirming that the breeze will stay balmy and the sun will continue to shine during you boating journey.

Safety Items to Include Onboard

In addition to making sure that the weather will be cooperating when you are sailing or boating, you will need to make certain that you have the necessary safety equipment in place and on board. Necessary items include:

  • A first aid kit;
  • Flashlight;
  • Throwable cushions;
  • Coast Guard approved life jackets;
  • Ladder;
  • GPS;
  • Boat anchor;
  • Lines;
  • Hook; and
  • Flares

Other Precautions to Take before you Set out on your Trip

Communication equipment should include a VHF marine radio and cell phone. In addition, make sure you have a stock of extra batteries. If you are going on a day trip, take along provisions, such as food and drinking water. Also, before you make your departure, you will want to check the gasoline and fluid levels and make sure you leave an itinerary with close friends or non-boating members of your family.

Turn Around if Bad Weather Looms on the Horizon

Although you may check to ensure that the skies will stay clear, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t the possibility that the forecast will change. If you learn that a thunderstorm is headed your way, then it’s best to get back to the port immediately. Because you can receive a lightning strike from as far of distance as 20 miles, you need to turn around when storm clouds begin to loom on the horizon. Make sure everyone onboard is wearing his or her lifejacket too.

In Case of a Storm . . .

Should a storm catch you by surprise, you will need to batten down the hatches and secure the ports or, if on a sailing vessel, minimize the sails. If you and your passengers are on a small vessel, then the passengers need to go to the centerline and bottom of the boat. In addition to life jackets, everyone onboard should also wear shoes that safely grip the deck.

Tampa Residents Can Obtain Boater Safety Training Online

Safety should always be a priority when it comes to boating. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers a basic boating safety course online that meets Florida’s mandatory safety training in boater education. The course is approved by the state of Florida and recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard. You can obtain further information by visiting the Florida Fish and Wildlife website.

 

References:

https://www.sptimes.com/gulfandbay/boatsafety.shtml

https://www.boatingbasicsonline.com/content/fl/

https://myfwc.com/

 

As an added safety precaution, why not take an In-Pulse CPR safety course in CPR and First Aid?

 

 

 

 

 

Are your children playing it safe?

It’s a hot summer day… Your child asks you if he or she can go to the playground. Seeing nothing wrong with this, you decide to take them. When you arrive, there are many parents playing with their kids. Your little one soon scampers off, to play with the others. You find yourself enjoying the day, and chatting with another one of the parents while you watch your children play. You glance away for one moment.

Suddenly, your child is gone! You can’t see them anywhere! In a panic, you look around everywhere but they’re nowhere in sight… A simple outing managed to turn into a horrifying experience in a mere second.

How could this have been prevented? By teaching your children to play it safe. Sometimes bad things can happen in only a moment’s notice. It does not take long for something to go wrong. Kidnapping for ransom is a more common occurrence than many people think. Around 12,500-25,500 kidnappings occur annually. Kidnapping has also been linked to piracy and terrorism. With these difficult financial times that we’re facing as of recent, many people are turning to crime as a source (or attempted source) of income.

It’s important that your children know the proper thing to do in such situations. You should start with explaining to them not to talk to strangers, and how to tell which strangers are bad. If it’s someone they’re not introduced to, or don’t know, they should come to you right away. Teach them how to spot suspicious activity.

Let them know they can always come to you with their problems. If your children don’t feel they can talk to you about things, they may not tell you when something is amiss… Don’t allow them to take candy or toys from anyone except you or a designated, responsible adult (such as a sibling, a babysitter, a teacher, or etc.) who is taking care of them. And always make sure you keep a keen eye on children as they’re playing. Be certain that you know what they’re doing and who they’re with at all times, for their own safety.

When you’re at the playground, make sure you ask yourself… Are you and your children really playing it safe? It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

First Aid Kit for Hiking

Hiking is a great outdoor activity that can give you well-rounded, and balanced benefits. Most people to hike for the pure enjoyment of the sport; to get out in nature and see the sites. Exercise is another motivating factor behind hiking. It is a great way to get a good cardio, as well as muscle toning benefits in one mode of exercise.

As enjoyable as hiking can be, there are a number of risks involved, especially depending on where you choose to hike. Because accidents do and can happen during even the most benign hike, you will want to make sure you carry a first aid kit. In your first aid kit you should have specific items so that you can tend to a variety of issues or injuries because no matter how much you plan, there is always the risk of that unexpected accident.

Putting together a first aid kit properly is important. There are certain items that should be a staple in each kit. Other items may not be necessary; and can just bulk up your kit and make it heavier and harder to carry on a casual hiking excursion.

For a generalized first aid kit, you will want to make sure you have the following:

Ÿ  Insect repellant

Ÿ  Pocket knife

Ÿ  Ace bandages

Ÿ  Sterile bandages

Ÿ  Bandage tape

Ÿ  Antiseptic lotion or ointment

Ÿ  Blister protectors

Ÿ  Pain reliever, such as Tylenol

If you suffer from allergic reactions, you will also want your allergy meds, whether it is an over-the-counter allergy medication such as Benadryl, or you require an Epi-Pen. You never know if you will encounter allergens on a hike or a bee sting, and as any doctor will tell you, it is better to be safe than sorry. It is better to be prepared and not need it, rather than not have what you need, and wish you had it.

Nothing can replace being prepared for an unexpected injury. The better you are prepared to handle injuries on your hike, the more enjoyable it will be. You will be able to hike and know that should an injury occur, you are prepared to deal with it.

 

Packing for Camping Safety

 

There is nothing more peaceful than a trip to the great outdoors. Being amongst nature is a relaxing departure from the daily grind. Camping may seem, to some, a rather passive activity requiring little forethought. However, this could not be further from the truth. Without proper packing, camping can indeed be extremely dangerous. Smart packing means safe camping, don’t be caught without these essential items.

 

  • First-aid kit- No matter whether you are camping in a busy campground or out in the wilderness, a fully stocked first aid kit is essential. Don’t forget the insect repellent and sunscreen. Learn how to administer basic first aid and CPR in case of an emergency.

 

  • A map, compass or GPS – It is fun to take off from your campsite and meander through the woods, however, you if you lose your bearings you will wish you had brought a locator and a map.

 

  • A flashlight, lantern and extra batteries – Once the sun goes down it is exceptionally dark, especially in remote camping areas. A flashlight and lantern come in handy for finding your way safely in the dark, warding off wildlife or enjoying after-dark activities in your tent.

 

  • Bottled water – Plenty of fresh water is essential, especially if you are going to be doing a lot of hiking or other physical activity or if it is extremely hot.

 

  • High-quality waterproof tent – Don’t skimp on the quality of your tent. Be sure it allows for ventilation and will keep you dry.

 

  • Waterproof fire starter – Fire keeps you warm and allows you to cook your food.

 

  • A Swiss army knife – A multifunctioning knife is an invaluable tool for any camper and takes up very little space in your pack.

 

  • Hand sanitizer and soap – Good hygiene is just as crucial while camping, as it is anywhere else. Always wash your hands before handling food and after using the restroom.

 

  • High-energy food in secure containers – Always pack food that will provide quick energy and require minimal preparation. Be sure to store all food in airtight containers.

 

  • Rope – Rope is useful for a drying rack, to tie garbage up where animals cannot reach it or to secure items during high winds.

 

  • Battery-operated weather radio – A pleasant day can suddenly become stormy. A weather radio warns of inclement weather allowing you plenty of time to seek shelter.

 

  • A whistle – Warn others of danger or your whereabouts with a whistle. Always wear the whistle while hiking and use when you need help.

 

 

 

 

 

Are you really safe when you go to the beach?


Swimming seems like such a simple thing. It’s something that most Floridians don’t really give a second thought to. But how do you know when you are at the beach with your family that you are really safe? There are many dangers when going to the beach.

For children, it’s probably a good idea to make sure they know how to swim properly before going into the water. Perhaps try looking up some swimming classes online if you need to. A qualified instructor can ensure that everyone knows how to swim.

Make sure not to leave your children unattended, not even for a short amount of time. Another good idea is to designate a specific area where it is known to be safe for your child to swim. This area should be free from things like dangerous rocks, boating activity, and very deep water. Make sure your child always stays in the designated swimming area. Avoid large waves.

It’s always best not to rely on a flotation device to save your life, even if it is designed for that purpose. Most pool toys are not made to save lives, only for fun for those who already know how to swim.

It’s a good idea to check the news and local weather for the tides and weather forecast  Also, watch out for rip currents, also known as undercurrents or undertow. If it’s going to storm, it’s best to reschedule the outing for another day.

It’s a good idea to have a talk with all family members, and make sure everyone understands what to do in an emergency. You should also familiarize yourself and your family with how to signal for help, and how to recognize another’s signal for help. It’s important to make sure everyone knows CPR, as well. It could save lives. Many mishaps and accidents could be prevented with proper planning.

Also, it is important that people understand the different aquatic wildlife in the area. Many species are poisonous or dangerous to humans.

With so many dangers out there, it’s important to be fully prepared for any emergency or situation that might come up. Hopefully in the future we can all learn to be more cautious when going to the beach.

12 Safety Tips Every Hiker Needs to Know

 

It’s no secret that hiking is a fun activity in which the entire family can participate in.  After all, who wouldn’t enjoy observing the natural elements that surround us?

 

Even though hiking is an adventurous sport with many advantages, such as beautiful scenery and health benefits, it can also have disadvantages, such as falling rocks and poison oak.

 

Listed below are 12 safety tips that every hiker needs to know prior to their excursion.

 

  1. Always plan ahead.  Before visiting a certain park, speak with the park ranger so he can let you know the best and worst (dangerous) areas of the park.

 

  1. Be familiar with the environment of where you’ll be hiking.  You should always research the plants and animals in the area because so many should be avoided.

 

  1. You should never hike alone.  Hiking is a group sport and because the chances of becoming lost or injured are much higher when you’re alone, it’s best to have at least a couple of fellow hikers with you.

 

  1. When you plan to go hiking, be sure to tell someone.  Also let them know where you’ll be and when you plan to return home.  Doing this will let them know where they can find you in case you don’t return home when you’re supposed to.

 

  1. Start your hiking adventure early.  You’ll want to avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day, so the sooner in the day you begin, the better.

 

  1. Know where to go to get medical care.  Prior to arriving to your hiking location, make sure you know how far you are from the nearest hospital in case you were to have an accident.

 

  1. Bring bottled water.  You’ll need to avoid drinking water from the springs and lakes because it could be filled with bacteria that could make you very sick.
  2. Bring snacks, such as sandwiches, chips and granola bars in tightly-sealed containers.  Animals can smell food and will go prowling into your bag unless your food is in a properly sealed container.

 

  1. Don’t forget the sun block.  Even if you’re hiking in a shady area, you should still use sun block.  Wearing a hat and arm coverings will also help you avoid getting sunburned.

 

  1. Bring your cell phone.  You should always keep your cell phone with you in case of an emergency.

 

  1. Remember to bring a first aid kit.  In case you have a minor scrape or cut, this kit will most likely take care of it so it won’t become infected.  Hopefully you won’t need the kit, but you’ll have it on hand just in case.

 

  1. Be sure to watch where you step.  So many hikers step on things like exposed tree roots, rocks, etc. and end up spraining their ankle.  There are also many hikers that step on snakes while exploring the trails.  So, while you’re observing the beauty around you, don’t forget to watch where you step.

Beach Safety Tips for a Safer Summer

Beach Warning Flags

 You see them flying on all of Florida’s public beaches, they are there to let swimmers know if it is safe to swim or not but, do you really know what they mean? The beach is a wonderful place to spend a hot summer day but, the ocean can change very quickly and knowing what the Beach Warning Flags mean can mean the difference between life and death for you, your loved ones, or others near by.

Why Do Public Beaches Need Warning Flags?

Public beaches as well as many private beaches in Florida have many visitors each year. Often these visitors don’t realize that there are many natural occurrences in the ocean that can and do affect the safety of swimmers such as; tide, rip currents, marine life that may be in the area. The Beach Warning Flags warn us of such dangers.

 What Do They Mean

There are five different Beach Warning Flags, each meaning a different thing and each, a different color. As in most cases RED indicates danger and is the most significant of the Beach Warning Flags and should be adhered to always.

Double Red –Water is closed to swimmers, sometimes this flag has a picture of a swimmer with a white line through it, which again means No Swimming!

Single Red – One red flag means that you can still swim but, you should use extreme caution and get out of the water if at any time the current becomes stronger or the waves larger. Stay within sight of a Lifeguard at all times.

Yellow – Moderate waters can be really fun to play in but, extreme caution is necessary when the yellow flag is flying. A yellow flag represents strong dangerous currents, surf, undertow, rocks, sudden drop offs, or any number of potential dangers, If you’re unsure ask the life guard.

Green – The Green Beach Warning Flags says that all is good and it’s okay to swim. Just remember that the ocean can change very quickly so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the Beach Warning Flag and the Lifeguard.

Blue or Purple – Dangerous marine life such as sharks and jellyfish can really mess up a day at the beach but, they are a part of the ocean and to be expected from time to time. If you see a blue or purple flag it doesn’t mean that can’t swim, only that you should be cautious while swimming and keep an eye out. These flags are often used in conjunction with other flags.

 

  What is CPR?    Why do we need CPR training?   Why do we need AED training?   Why do we need First Aid training?   Who needs Bloodborne Pathogens training?   What employers need to know   Survival Stories   Staying Healthy   Avoiding Injuries   Tributes to those who help make our lives safe More...     Sign Up for a CPR Class  
Disclaimer:
Use of any advise on this site is purely at your own risk.  The information supplied is designed to accompany CPR and first aid training not to replace.  In-Pulse CPR, Inc disclaims any liability for losses you incur as a result of inaccuracy of the information provided on this website.  Information on this site is for education, supplemental to examination by and advice of medical professionals.   Any information regarding first aid treatments is not meant to replace the advice of medical professionals including physicians, paramedics, emergency room attendants, nurses or other licensed medical personnel.