His Team Lost, but He Won!

 

Leo Staudacher hadn’t planned on watching the Michigan-Notre game on television, let alone in a hospital ICU unit. But he was very grateful to have seen the end of the game at all. The 69 year old Bay City man was watching the game at Michigan Stadium when he collapsed from sudden cardiac arrest, the leading cause of natural deaths in the United States.

 

Mr. Staudacher’s three sons were with him at the game, but none of them knew what do. That’s not unusual or shameful – most people aren’t trained in CPR. Thankfully for Leo Staudacher and his family, a nearby spectator knew CPR and began performing it on the unconscious man while others went for help. Stadium security personnel used an Automated Electric Defibrillator (AED) to shock Mr. Staudacher’s heart back into normal rhythm. But it was the bystander who started CPR quickly who made full recovery possible.

 

Sudden cardiac arrest almost always results in death, unless life-saving measures are begun within six minutes of the event. Even in cities with outstanding emergency medical services, that’s often not possible, meaning the difference between life and death hinges on someone close by knowing CPR. Studies have found the survival rate among heart attack victims increases 300% when CPR is begun within minutes.

 

Statistically, Leo Staudacher was an anomaly, lying in his Ann Arbor hospital bed, watching the Wolverines score a come-from-behind victory over his beloved Notre Dame. “My family watched while they shocked me with the paddles,” he said later, “but it was the fans and their prompt CPR that saved my life.”

 

Most of us wonder at times about the meaning of our lives. Anyone who has learned the simple process of CPR and has had the privilege of using it to save another human being can answer that age-old philosophical question. The idea that a few hours of training could lead to years added to someone’s life – years during which incalculable good might be done – is both humbling and compelling. The fact is, there’s nothing that stands between you and me and an act of heroism except learning CPR. How many of the 325,000 Americans who die of sudden cardiac arrest every year would survive if more people knew CPR? Hard to say, but one thing is undeniable: your training could save one person whose life has infinite value.

Know the Signs of a Heart Attack and What to Do (2026 Update)

If you or someone near you is having a heart attack, you may have only minutes to act. Heart attacks can strike suddenly and, in some cases, without obvious warning. Knowing the signs — and knowing what to do — can save a life.

“The most dangerous heart attack is the one people wait too long to respond to,” says Dr. Mitchell Elkind, MD, MS, neurologist and former president of the American Heart Association. “When people act quickly, outcomes improve dramatically.”

Common Heart Attack Warning Signs

Seek emergency medical help immediately if you or someone else experiences:

  • Chest discomfort — pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest

  • Pain spreading to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or teeth

  • Upper abdominal pain that does not resolve

  • Shortness of breath, even at rest

  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting

  • Cold sweats

  • Nausea or vomiting

Symptoms may come and go. Pain can ease briefly and return. If symptoms persist or repeat, do not wait.

“People often delay calling 911 because symptoms feel mild or unclear,” explains Dr. Clyde Yancy, MD, cardiologist and AHA guideline author. “That delay is where the greatest risk lies.”

Heart Attacks Don’t Always Look the Same

Not all heart attacks involve crushing chest pain. Some people experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or vague discomfort. Others — especially women, older adults, and people with diabetes — may have minimal or atypical symptoms.

In many cases, warning signs appear hours, days, or weeks beforehand, often as chest discomfort during physical activity that improves with rest.

“The body often sends early signals,” says Dr. Jennifer Haythe, MD, cardiologist. “The challenge is recognizing them and taking them seriously.”

What Causes a Heart Attack?

Most heart attacks occur when a coronary artery becomes blocked, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle.

This blockage is usually caused by atherosclerosis, a gradual buildup of cholesterol and plaque inside artery walls. When plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form suddenly, cutting off circulation.

“Once blood flow stops, heart muscle begins to die within minutes,” notes Dr. Robert Eckel, MD, cardiovascular medicine specialist. “That’s why speed matters more than anything else.”

What to Do If You Suspect a Heart Attack

If you think someone may be having a heart attack:

Call 911 immediately.
Do not attempt to drive yourself or the person to the hospital.

While waiting for emergency responders:

  • Have the person sit or lie down and rest

  • If they are not allergic to aspirin and it is not medically contraindicated, give one aspirin to chew

  • Stay with them and monitor breathing and responsiveness

“Chewing aspirin early can help limit clot formation,” explains Dr. Erin Michos, MD, preventive cardiologist. “But it never replaces calling 911.”

If the Person Becomes Unconscious

If the person collapses, becomes unresponsive, or stops breathing normally:

  • Ensure 911 has been called

  • Begin CPR immediately

  • Continue CPR until an AED is available or emergency responders arrive

“CPR keeps the brain and heart alive until definitive care can be delivered,” says Dr. Comilla Sasson, MD, emergency medicine physician and resuscitation expert. “It’s one of the most powerful actions a bystander can take.”

The Bottom Line for 2026

Heart attacks remain one of the leading medical emergencies — but survival is strongly influenced by early action.

Recognize the signs.
Call 911 without hesitation.
Start CPR if needed.

“Prepared communities save lives,” says Dr. Benjamin Abella, MD, director of emergency cardiac care research. “Training turns fear into action.”

Being informed — and trained — still makes the difference between life and death.

Updated by Troy Bowman 2026

Severe Weather Safety Tips

In 2011 Atlanta, GA suffered from more severe weather than it has in many years. It seems as though the weather here in Atlanta gets worse every year; with everything from snow storms that last for weeks to a battery of tornados, and thunder storms that rage across the state like an angry bull.

Be Ready For Severe Weather When It Arrives

Severe weather can be frightening but, more than that it can be deadly. Being prepared for severe weather such as tornados, snow storms, floods could mean the difference between life and death for yourself or your loved ones.

Severe Weather Emergency Kits

Before severe weather actually arrives put together several Emergency Kits. Think of places where you might need to keep them in order to be able to get to them in an emergency such as: your home, garage, office, car, barn, or outside storage building, somewhere that you might be able to get to them in a time of need.

In the event of a disaster you will likely need several of these kits. It is advisable that you make one large kit to keep in or around the home, (underground if at all possible) and several smaller kits in other places: office, car, outdoor tool building.

Kit One the Largest and Most Important Kit

Things You Will Need:

* Large Duffle Bag Style Bag

The Bag itself should be a duffle bag style that is weather proof, water proof, and tough. It should be large enough to hold everything in the kit and it needs to have reflective material on the outside or glow in the dark spray paint will work just fine. There is always the chance that you will be trying to find this bag in the dark without a flashlight.

* Water

One of the most important things that we can have in our emergency kits is clean water. Each kit should have at least 3 gallons of water per person in food grade plastic containers. Additional water should be kept for sanitation purposes.

* Food

A three day supply of food for each person should be enough in most situations but, rationing your food during a situation where you aren’t sure when you’ll get more would not be a bad idea. Food that won’t spoil, doesn’t need to be refrigerated, cooked, and doesn’t require a lot of preparation or water to be eatable is best for the emergency kits.

 

Types of Foods That Will Keep Well For Several Days:

Cereal Bars                Canned Meats                     Canned Juices    Canned Fruits                   Canned Vegetables              Energy Bars

Crackers                             Candy Bars                           Canned Soups

Peanut Butter                     Beef Jerky

 

* Important Documents of course you won’t keep original documents here but, a sealed dry packet containing copies of all family members important documents could prove to be very helpful in many situations.

Social Security Cards                            Copy of Wills

Bank account numbers                       Insurance Policies

Birth certificates                                   Contracts

Marriage certificates                           Titles

Death certificates                                 Phone numbers

Household inventory                           Passports

 

More Necessary Items

* Whistle possibly the most important items in your kit. Each person should have a metal police type whistle on a string around their neck during bad weather. If someone were buried or lifted and thrown the sound of that whistle can be heard much farther than a voice.

* Battery Operated radio or even better they kind that can be charged by turning a handle.

* Flashlights and glow sticks (You can buy flashlights that operate buy turning a handle as well)

* Extra batteries

* Dry, comfortable clothing and shoes

* Blankets or water proof sleeping bags if possible

* Plastic rain ponchos (they’re cheap easy to store and very light weight)

* Can opener (manual type)

* Plastic ware

* Sharp Kitchen Knives Be certain that these are wrapped several times in towels or stored in some type of plastic container to prevent someone from getting cut while moving the bag from place to place.

First Aid Kit

In an emergency situation it’s not always possible to get to a doctor right away and a first aid kit could be all that you have so make it as good as you can. You will need at least 2 of these, place one with the large kit and one with the car kit.

The best container for this is a high quality fishing tackle box that is water proof and spray painted with glow in dark paint.

Different types and sizes of Bandages

2” Gauze pads 10pk                        4” Gauze pads 10pk

2” Roll Bandages 3-4 rolls              3” Roll Bandages 3-4 rolls

Vaseline                                             Tweezers

Assorted Band-Aids                         Scissors

Thermometer                                  Needles (one pkg)

Soap                                                 Latex glove

Clean White Towels in Plastic bags

Safety pins (assorted sizes) Use to hold bandages in place.

 

Medications

Any prescription medication that family members must have should be kept here as well such as insulin, prescription glasses, and medication for high blood pressure.

Over The Counter Medications

Activated Charcoal (for poison control)

Syrup of Ipecac (to induce vomiting incase of poisoning)

Triple- antibiotic                             Peroxide

Alcohol                                            Pain Reliever (non-aspirin)

Antacid                                            Imodium (for relief of diarrhea)

Laxative

 

Depending on where you’ll be keeping your kits and how much space you actually have the more you are able to put up for an emergency the more comfortable and ready you and your family will be.

 

It’s a good idea to at least have 2 smaller kits in different places the smaller kits should contain as many of the items as possible and still be portable. Keeping in mind that clean water, food, light, and a whistle are very items to have important during a disaster.

 

Making sure that you and your family are safe is a full time job we hope that this article has helped to lighten that burden.

Protecting yourself Against Bloodborne Pathogens in a Health Care Setting

 

Occupations at Risk

If you work in a number of occupations, particularly in nursing or as an emergency medical technician (EMT), you are at a pronounced risk of being exposed to bloodborne pathnogens (BBPs). Other occupations that stand the risk of infection from BBPs include police officers, firemen, clinical or laboratory workers, plumbers, hair stylists, and maintenance and custodial employees.

Defining BBPs

BBPs are microorganisms, or bacteria or viruses, that are transported by the blood and can cause illness and disease in humans. The primary llnesses produced by bloodborne pathogens include hepatitis B and C and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In healthcare settings, BBPs are most often transported as the result of the health care worker mistakenly puncturing himself with a needle or syringe. Getting squirted with a patient’s blood can also result in infection as well.

Hepatitis B

While no cure exists for hepatitis C or HIV, hepatitis B can be treated. However, health care workers who do contract hepatitis B, many times, do not initially exhibit any kind of symptomology. In fact, they can go as long as six months before feeling sick. Once symptoms do appear, patients often suffer from tiredness, a low-grade fever, nausea, and a loss of appetite. The skin typically takes on a yellow cast due to jaundice as well. Cirrhosis or damage to the liver often follows. Fortunately, workers in medical facilities who are at risk of BBP exposure can obtain hepatitis B shots free of charge.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C, another common infection resulting from BBPs, like hepatitis B, does not typically present any symptomology shortly after it is contracted. When symptoms do present themselves, they may include stomach pain and swelling, dark-colored urine, nausea, fever, fatigue, jaundice, and a loss of appetite. In many instances, hepatitis C or HCV infection, like hepatitis B, will lead to scarring or cirrhosis of the liver.

 

Human Immunodeficiency Virus – HIV

HIV, another common BBP infection, may not produce any symptoms for as long as a decade. In addition, blood tests, after exposure, may not confirm the patient to be HIV positive until three months after the patient is infected. Symptoms, when they do occur, can include headache, fever, tiredness, diarrhea, muscle aches and stiffness, the development of rashes, a swelling of the lymph glands, and a sore throat.

Where BBPs Gain Entry

BBPs can enter routes in the skin, such as abrasions, acne, sunburned areas, open sores, and cuts. The pathogens can also gain entry through mucous membranes, such as the nose, eyes, and mouth. Again, in health care settings, an unintended needle puncture is the most common reason for infection.

Lowering the Risk of Exposure

Besides personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, masks, lab coats, and face shields, hand washing offers one of the most beneficial measures of safety. Always make sure then that you use an antibacterial soap and wash immediately after removing PPE. A hand sanitizer can also be used in lieu of soap and water, but, again, you should wash your hands as soon as you can after using the sanitizer to ensure you are maximally protected.

Decontaminating an Area

Healthcare workers should decontaminate work areas where BBP exposure is possible after their shift or immediately following a spill of possibly infectious material or blood. Using a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water is recommended in cleaning the area. An EPA-recommended disinfectant can be used instead of the water and bleach as well. Rags used to clean and decontaminate the area should be disposed of as biological waste.

Reasons for Sharps Injuries

Most injuries that resulted from using sharps were primarily connected with either the use of a blood-drawing device or syringe. Nurses, in many instances, were injured when disposing of sharps in containers, administering injections, using heel sticks or finger sticks, or performing venipuncture. Nurses indicated that sharps mishaps often occurred because of factors such as insufficient lighting, uncooperative patients, workplace distractions, and a disorganized work area. Feeling under pressure with respect to time constraints was also reported as a contributor to sharps accidents.

 

References:

https://www.massnurses.org/health-and-safety/articles/bloodborne-pathogens/p/openItem/1258
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001324
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001329
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001627
https://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_General_Facts/ppe-factsheet.pdf

Bloodborne Pathogens, BBPs, University of Louisiana at Monroe 3rd Quarter 2009 Safety Meeting

 

She “was not responding” to CPR

This weekend I was home watching TV, flipping through the channels, when a program caught my attention. This program was reviewing the case of a gentleman who had lost his wife in a diving “accident”.  They were trying the evidence presented at his trial.  His apparent lack of emotions,  the situation that left her alone in the water for a period of time and other topics were covered.  The part that stuck in my mind the most was the part where they asked the husband if he had performed CPR on his wife, and for how long.

He said he had performed CPR on her for a few minutes, but discontinued because she “was not responding”.  “I wasn’t going to waste time on someone who was unresponsive” was what he said.  I felt so sad. Either he was just a “jerk” or he really didn’t know the “what” and “why” of CPR.  CPR is NOT performed on someone who is responsive,  most rescuers will NOT see a response from their measures. Responses come (if they are going to happen) with the assistance of an AED and the medical professionals at the hospital.

It is so very important that people learn proper CPR and the importance of performing it.  Knowing the “how” is important, but also the “why” and “what”.   PLEASE, if you take a CPR class, don’t leave unless you understand the reasons as well as the technique.   I know for a fact that you will not leave uninformed from an In-Pulse CPR course.

The Best Way To Stay Safe On A Cruise Ship

Cruise ships have the best safety record in the travel industry, but despite international maritime rules and regulations, U.S. Coast Guard guidelines, and stringent international laws, cruise ship accidents or incidents still occur. If your cruise ship captain steers too close to the shore, hits a rock, is distracted by a 25 year old blond and lives by the motto “every man for himself”, you probably can’t anticipate that in advance. But there are measures you can take to optimize your general safety on a cruise ship. Your crew, though far better trained than you, commonly works 12 hour shifts, 7 days a week for weeks or months on end. Fatigue undermines judgment, so keep yours sharp!

 

  • Always participate in the required safety drills.
  • You will be provided with the ship’s map. Take the time to study it and walk the ship to orient yourself with the location of life rafts, lifeboats, and stairwells.

 

If you’re nervous about the safety record of a cruise line or particular ship:

  • Book through a travel agent. They are most familiar with cruise line reputations.
  • Check the Centers for Disease Control’s “report card” for your cruise ship by going to www.cdc.gov/inspectionquerytool/inspectionsearch.aspx
  • Tap your social media networks for personal recommendations
  • Read consumer reviews at www.Cruisereport.com

 

It is way more likely that you will have food poisoning, a fall, twist an ankle on an onshore excursion or get robbed than run aground or sink so take practical precautions. Don’t eat anything that smells funny, hold onto the rail, watch the booze, and stow valuable in the ship’s safe if you are not using them such as excess cash, jewelry, and your passport.

  • Keep your ticket. The tiny print on the bottom is your contract with the cruise line. If you feel you have been wronged, you’ll need your ticket and a personal injury lawyer.

 

Knowing that you can communicate with loved ones can bring you and them great peace of mind if there is an emergency. Here are your options:

–          If you can, wait till you reach port and use your cell phone

–          Direct dial from your stateroom phone. It is convenient but will cost you $7-$20.00 per minute.

–          Obtain your cell phone provider’s cruise coverage rate before your trip

–          Send text messages from your cell phone. It is faster and cheaper than calls.

–          Take advantage of the pre-paid internet use option for sending emails.

–          Use Skype or another VOIP service.

–          Purchase a cruise ship phone card to make calls ship-to-shore. The card will reduce your costs. Ship-to-shore rates without a calling card can be as much as $20.00 a minute which may or may not concern you in an emergency.

 

—–Judith Kolberg- Writer, Author, and Book Coach. www.squallpress.net, info@squallpress.net

Quantity over Quality? Not all CPR classes are the same.

As a former daycare provider, I know a daycare center prides itself on how many teachers they can say are CPR and First Aid certified. When a potential parent is touring and the director can say that a large percentage of the staff is certified…well, how much better can it get?

I was certified for several years and I thank God I never needed to employ either skill.  Why? I would not have had a clue where to begin.  Our certification consisted of the following: CPR dummies were slapped down in front of each of the 20 ladies and the instructor told us to imitate him. Most people chatted and giggled throughout the brief rundown and then certification cards were passed out.  It terrifies me to look back and realize that in an emergency situation most of us would have been extremely unprepared. What’s worse, is that a majority of these women had their own children enrolled at the center.

In May of 2011, a law was passed in Minnesota adding stricter requirements for CPR certified teachers and childcare providers after a 4 year old girl choked on grape and died because there was no one around to perform CPR. While this is a wonderful step in the right direction, it is now the responsibility of these centers to choose reputable classes and make their staff understand the importance of what they are doing. They need to realize that these classes are not just to satisfy mandates of this new law, but instead help children celebrate many more birthdays and keep horrible accidents from haunting both the parents and childcare providers.

Parents are trusting us with their most precious possession. It is both an honor and responsibility that must be taken seriously. When you say you are certified, they are trusting that you will know what to do in an emergency.  We cannot just sit around with our fingers crossed, hoping nothing will go wrong.  Daycare providers, nannies, teachers, as well as individuals need to realize the significance of attending a quality CPR and first aid class. Being certified is more than just wielding a card, it is about the knowledge and ability to potentially save a life.

What a Bystander was Taught Saves a Teacher’s Life

When paramedics in Dallas arrived at Sarah Zumwalt Middle School, they found a teacher in the midst of a heart attack. “He was in ventricular fibrillation, a fatal rhythm,” said Fire Department Lieutenant Greg Henderson. They also found that a fellow educator already was performing CPR. Said Henderson, “Bystander CPR is what saved this person’s life.”

The story is often the same in such cases, but sadly, they are few and far between. Only eight percent of heart attack victims survive, mainly because not enough people have taken the small amount of time to learn proper CPR. When the technique is applied quickly and in the right way, the survival rate triples and complications from loss of blood flow to the brain are minimized.

In this case, by happy coincidence, it turned out the victim and his colleague-savior were friends, and had taken CPR classes together, which included training in use of the Automated External Defibrillator, a portable device that aids in restoring normal heart rhythm when accompanied by effective CPR. More and more AED’s are being made available in public places, but not nearly enough people have been taught how to use them.

It’s estimated that only one-in-three heart attack victims receives quick CPR from a bystander. As mentioned, in a quirk of symmetry, their survival rate triples when they do. Sudden cardiac arrest is the number one cause of natural death in the United States, killing over 325,000 people a year. If you take the few hours required to learn CPR, those statistics indicate you have a pretty good chance to put your knowledge to life-saving use. A small investment of time for such an incalculably great return!

Lieutenant Henderson summed up the situation simply: “It’s stories like this that tell you how important bystander CPR is.” And, by definition, how important it is for us to learn it. And if your training took place more than a few years ago, it’s time for a new class, because proper technique has changed. The American Heart Association’s key focus is on  chest compression, because blood flow to the brain is so crucial.

How many compressions a minute to apply, how to time them and how much force is necessary are things you can learn in a very short time. What are you waiting for?

Even First Responders Can Become Disaster Victims, Atlanta Ice Storm Jan 2011

 

“I’m trained in CPR and always thought of myself as a first responder and a caretaker of others, but during Atlanta’s ice storm in January, 2011 I was the one who ended up needing assistance”, reflects Dr. Benjamin Albright. The icy parking lot in front of his busy Marietta chiropractic office lay at the bottom of a hill, hundreds of yards from the main street. “My feet flew out from underneath me. I fell flat on my back, and lay there in the parking lot unable to move I was so wracked with pain.” With no other employees, patients, or personnel around Dr. Albright lie there for nearly five hours before being rescued. “Basically, I worked on remaining conscious and calm. Slowly the ice numbed my pain and I was finally able to ease my cell phone out of my pocket and call 911.” Dr. Albright suffered a herniated disc, no laughing matter although the irony was not lost on him. “I have a great chiropractor!” he quips.

 

Dr. Albright’s advice? “Don’t be a martyr or a hero. Unless you have a well-thought out safety plan for reporting to a job where your service is absolutely essential; stay home. Wireless technology and computers make it possible to do a wide range of business tasks from home. “While I was lying on the ice, my colleagues and staff were getting bookkeeping done, catching up on email, and doing professional reading,” Albright reports.

 

If you must work during a weather disaster:

  • Listen to the weather reports for alerts, warnings and watches and be ready to change your plans.
  • If you must travel, be certain your cell phone is charged and you’re going to a location where you can get a signal.
  • Tell someone where you are traveling to and when you expect to return.
  • Wear appropriate clothing in the event you have to walk, wait or otherwise be outdoors in bad weather.
  • Keep basic safety equipment in your car such as a flashlight, matches, a small shovel, a blanket, bottled water and high-protein energy bars.

Judith Kolberg, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Volunteer

Author, Organize for Disaster: Prepare Your Family and Your Home for Any Natural or Unnatural Disaster

Prompt Intervention Saves Lives in Grand Marais


Gary Radloff, a bailiff for Cook County in Grand Marais, MN. has become a local hero in the community. His quick intervention helped save lives when a man who just received a guilty verdict in a criminal case went on a shooting rampage. Two people were shot and two others received injuries during this courthouse assault, which could have been far worse, but for the brave actions of Radloff and other people.

 

Radloff, 70, was in the courtroom with Judge Mark Munger of Duluth and members of the jury when he heard gunshots being fired right outside the door of the courtroom. Radloff screamed for everyone to clear the courtroom, and immediately charged down the hall to confront the shooter Daniel Schlienz.

 

Schlienz had already shot a Grand Marais man, Gregory Thompson, who had testified in Schlienz’s trial, and he had also shot Tim Scannell, the County Attorney. Radloff reached the scene, where he, along with Schlienz’s mother Ginger Berglund, and Assistant County Attorney Molly Hicken overpowered Schlienz and disarmed him. By the time a Minnesota State Patrol officer arrived, Radloff had already brought the situation under control.

 

Radloff commented about his act of bravery, “I was just doing my job. The training just kicked in.”

 

Molly Hicken’s father, Jeff Hicken along with Michael Scott, a partner at a law firm said that Molly Hicken had helped remove the gun from the possession of Schlienz. Scott said he was told that Molly threw the gun out of the window. She was not struck by gunfire, but she received splattering of blood and suffered some bruises and bumps.

 

The victims, Scannel, 45, and Thompson, 53, were sent to the Essentia Health St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth. Scannell was reported to be in a fair condition following surgery, and Thompson was in good condition. Thompson received treatment for multiple gunshot wounds to the leg, and Scannell got shot in the groin and twice in the abdomen.

 

Radloff and Hicken were taken to the Northshore Hospital in Cook County, where they received treatment and were released. Agents from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension have scoured the crime scene at the courthouse, which was shut down for the day. They questioned a number of witnesses to learn more about the shooting that rocked one of the least populous counties in Minnesota.

Winter Play Safety Tips for Children

 

Snow is one of nature’s greatest toys for all ages. You can mold it, build with it, slide on it, throw it, and so much more. No matter how old you are, it is important to be safe when playing outside in the fresh powder. These six simple guidelines can help everyone make the most of their time in a winter wonderland.

  1. Refrain from Eating Snow- Even if you start to get thirsty, it is never a good idea to pick up snow and eat it. There are several reasons for this. Contrary to what most people think, some forms of snow can dehydrate the body. To melt the snow our bodies have to heat it up. This takes heat away from keeping us warm and lowers the body temperature. Snow in urban or suburban areas can be dirty and make us sick. The only time someone would ever need to eat snow would be if they were out in the wilderness. Then they would have to put it into a water bottle and put it against their body to melt it before drinking it.

 

  1. Be Aware of When You Start to Sweat- Between the heavy clothing and running around in the snow, our bodies start to sweat. This is the body cooling itself down. It sounds easy enough just to take off our winter coats to cool off, but it can do more harm than good. When we sweat, our pores open up and make our skin susceptible to cold. This is why it is best to dress in layers when playing outside in the cold. Shedding layers helps to cool us down without letting too much cold get in. If you start to sweat too much, it’s time to go back inside and rest.

 

  1. Protect Your Hands and Feet- It’s fun to make a snowman or lay down and make a snow angel, but long exposure to snow can hurt human skin and cause frostbite. Frostbite is when the skin cells freeze and die. It’s almost like a burn from cold. Wear gloves when you need to touch the snow and never go outside barefoot. It looks easy in Christmas movies, but it can cause a lot of harm.

 

  1. Keep Your Head Covered– A lot of heat escapes from our heads in the cold weather, making our body temperature go down much faster. Our mouth, nose, and eyes are wet and are more susceptible to the cold. Wear a hat or a hood when going out to play in the snow to keep your head from getting sick. Your ears will thank you too.

 

  1. Stay Active- Moving around keeps the blood pumping and warms up the body naturally. Don’t just sit and watch everyone else have fun. Build a snowman, go sledding, or make a snow fort. If you start to feel tired, go inside and rest for a few hours and then go out again. Snow is for playing in for short bursts and then going inside to warm up.

 

  1. Go Out With a Friend or Parent– Playing in snow can easily dehydrate and tire someone out so going out alone is never a good idea. Sledding and ice skating are lots of fun but they can be dangerous. Every year they cause unexpected injuries for even the most experienced at winter sports. If you are in the woods or not in view of a house, you should have an adult with you. If you are in a well populated area with other people, a friend will do fine.

Dealing with Epilepsy: A First-Aider’s Guide

There are few conditions that a first aider will come across that are scarier than a classic grand mal seizure. While you can bandage a wound, place someone in the recovery position, or administer CPR, the sight of someone shaking on the ground is extremely daunting if you are not use to it.

First, though, you should not panic. Your first priority is to remove any hazards that could be hit by the seizing person. These could include knives, scissors, and other sharp objects or electrical goods such as hair curlers, electric fires, and other hot items. If you cannot remove an item, such as a door or wardrobe corner, cushion it with either your body or a blanket. Ensure the head is cushioned if possible. Do not try to restrain the person or hold down the tongue as this may cause potentially severe injuries.

Your next priority is to dial 911. The operator will ask you for your location, the age of the casualty, and whether he or she is still breathing. Give as much information as you can. You may already know whether this is the casualty’s first seizure or not and how long they typically last. Alternatively, you can ask whoever is with the person.

Having made the area safe and called for help, you must consider the comfort and dignity of the person. A seizure always creates a lot of attention, and ideally the casualty’s dignity must be preserved. Set up screens if they are available or close the area off. Remove any bystanders who are just staring. If they refuse to leave the area, ask them to consider whether they would like to be stared at in a similar situation.

If the patient is still fitting when the paramedic arrives, a line will normally be placed in the casualty’s arm. Alternatively, a suppository may be administered if the fitting is too severe or a vein is hard to find. This will help the patient to recover from the procedure.

If the seizure abates before medical help arrives, put the patient in the recovery position. Keep the casualty warm by covering with a blanket. He or she may be very confused upon waking up from the seizure. Some may become frightened or momentarily aggressive. Explain what has happened and that help is on the way. Suggest the patient stays still until help arrives.

Whatever happens, when dealing with a seizure, you must keep calm. The vast majority of seizures will not cause any serious harm to the casualty. Staying focused and following your first-aid training is the best way to help an epileptic recover.

 

Ballpark CPR

Ballparks are always a fun gathering place for many people and families. The excitement of seeing your child playing baseball can bring out a sense of pride, and enjoyment. But, as fun as ballparks are, they can also be dangerous. There are many different types of injuries that can occur at a ballpark, one of them being heart trouble.

 

If you can imagine, your son steps up to the plate. He has the bat in his hands and is staring intently at the pitcher – waiting for that perfect pitch. The ball flies across the plate at high speeds, and just as it looks like the ball will connect with the bat, instead, it connects with your son’s chest. You hear the thud of the ball making contact with your son’s small body. You know it hurt, but you never imagined that it would have caused your son to fall to the ground, lose consciousness, stop breathing, and lay at the plate on the brink of death.

 

The coaches run to the rescue. They do a quick analysis of the situation and start CPR. Within seconds they realize that this is a job for the park’s defibrillator. Before you know it, they have the machine, and they have him shocked back into a normal heart rhythm. An ambulance is called and he is now on his way to be checked out by doctors and monitored in a medical setting.

 

When you hear the whole story, you realize that the ball just so happened to make contact with your son’s chest at the perfect second, right in-between heartbeats. This rare occurrence interrupted your son’s normal, regular heart rhythm and triggered cardiac arrest. But thanks to the baseball officials, they recognized it right away, started CPR and got the defibrillator that revived your son.

 

You are forever grateful for the coaches’ quick thinking with CPR, and you are thankful that you had joined the mission of lobbying to get a defibrillator for the field. CPR is the first act and defense for cardiac arrest. Sometimes a defibrillator is needed, but to begin CPR immediately could be the lifeline that an individual needs who is suffering a heart attack. Proper training and knowledge could be the determining factor in saving someone’s life.

Crossing the REAL Finish-Line

He was only a tenth of a mile from the finish line of a half-marathon race in San Jose when the 40 year old man collapsed. A Stanford University Hospital nurse was nearby and quickly determined the man had no pulse and wasn’t breathing. She started CPR immediately, and soon, Emergency Medical Technicians from an ambulance standing by at the race took over. The man was breathing and awake when he was loaded into the ambulance for the trip to a nearby hospital.

 

The EMT’s were unequivocal in their assessment of the situation: “CPR is what saves lives,” said one. “The fact that it was done quickly is probably what saved that man’s life.” Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause if natural death in the United States, and is nearly always fatal – unless CPR is started within minutes. Then, the successful (meaning no serious complications) survival rate triples.

 

Maybe you’re thinking it was only because the bystander who started CPR was a nurse that the outcome was so positive. Not so – her training in Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation was no different from what’s available to anyone. That means you or I, with a minimal expenditure of time, can learn how to save a life. What could possibly be more satisfying, more meaningful, than that?

If you learned CPR more than a few years ago, you should know the technique recommended by the American Heart Association has changed. No longer does it insist on  alternating chest compressions with mouth-to-mouth breathing. It instead focuses on chest compressions – the key being to keep blood flowing to the brain, to head off permanent damage and disability. Knowing how many compressions per minute and the force required for effectiveness takes training.

 

Various Medical Associations have said everyone has a “moral obligation” to learn CPR. Maybe that’s true, but obligation or not, think what it would mean for you to know one day that your action had saved a life and kept a family together. That very real possibility is more than enough reason to commit just a few hours of your time to learn CPR. Especially at this time of year, what greater gift could you offer?

 

Hiking Preparedness

Written by Susan Patterson


Without proper planning, a hike can quickly turn into a nightmare. Avoiding unnecessary accidents and incidents is possible with adequate preparation. Remember, it is equally vital to prepare for a day hike, as it is to prepare for a longer journey. Know your route well and always take a friend along. Hiking alone is dangerous and should be avoided at all times.

Conditioning

Nature presents many challenges, many of which can surprise you during your hike. Before embarking on your adventure make sure, you are in top shape. If you have not been walking regularly, or your walk is only on straight and flat land, begin walking at least 30 minutes daily three weeks prior to your hike. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your walking until you can easily walk an hour without any discomfort. This will strengthen your leg muscles and your heart. Add a pack with some weight for extra training if your hike is long. Swimming is also an excellent overall conditioner and can be incorporated into your workouts.

Footwear

Keeping your feet comfortable and well supported is essential for a happy hike. Never try out a new pair of hiking boots for the first time on a hike. Wear your boots for several weeks prior and make sure they are fitting correctly. Old and worn out boots will promote blisters and should be avoided, as well. Wear hiking socks to absorb moisture and provide additional comfort. Always pack a second pair of socks in case your feet get wet.

Pack

Packing light and smart is a golden rule for hikers. First things first be sure you have a pack that is comfortable. Even if you know the area where you are hiking well, always bring a compass, guidebook and trail map. It is easy for even the best hikers to become disoriented. Dehydration happens quickly and with little warning, be sure to bring plenty of water. High-energy snacks provide quick energy and take up little room in your pack. Trail mixes, energy bars, candy, and beef jerky are excellent choices. A first aid kit and an understanding of basic first aid procedures must be included. A Swiss army knife is an invaluable tool that should not be overlooked. Leave room in your pack for gloves, a rain suit and some form of fire starter. Avoid bulky or unnecessary supplies that will only weigh you down.

 

 

 

 

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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.