Red Cross supports Heart Month in Canada
(Ottawa, 1 February 2008) – February is Heart Month and the Canadian Red Cross would like to take this opportunity to remind Canadians about the importance of their heart health. Cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease, are the leading cause of death in Canada. Many such diseases can be prevented through a lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, a balanced diet, giving up smoking and maintaining a healthy body weight.
While it is advisable for everyone to take stock of their heart health, it is equally important to realize that medical emergencies such as heart attacks can and do occur every day. Being prepared to respond in the event of an emergency could be vital to a victim’s survival. The Red Cross First Aid program offers comprehensive training that teaches essential life-saving skills using a hands-on approach and steps that are easy to learn, retain and perform.
“Red Cross CPR and First Aid courses teach people to recognize the signs of a heart attack and how to act quickly and effectively in an emergency situation,” says Rick Caissie, National Manager First Aid Programs “If you see someone experiencing chest pain, nausea, or difficulty breathing, they could be having a heart attack.”
It is now easier than ever to perform CPR and potentially save a life. Following research and new international guidelines released in 2005, the Canadian Red Cross adapted these guidelines and launched a revised CPR and First Aid program in 2006.
In most Canadian cities, the average ambulance response time is more than eight minutes. Permanent brain damage can occur four to six minutes after breathing stops. Effective bystander CPR, provided immediately after cardiac arrest, can double a victim’s chance of survival.
“Knowing what to do in those critical minutes can save a life. Knowing how to help a victim of cardiac arrest could mean the difference between full recovery and permanent disability or even death,” Rick Caissie explains.
For over 50 years, the Canadian Red Cross has been a leader in First Aid and CPR training. Over 350,000 Canadians receive training each year, gaining the knowledge, confidence and skills to deal with emergency situations and prevent injuries. For information on First Aid, CPR or Automated External Defibrillation (AED) courses in your area, visit www.redcross.ca/firstaid, or call 1-877-356-3226.
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For more information, please contact:
Rick Caissie
National Manager, First Aid Programs
1-506-863-2650 ext 2608
