HUNTINGTON COMMUNITY FIRST AID SQUAD RECOGNIZED FOR TWO CPR SAVES

At the September meeting of the Suffolk Regional Emergency Medical Service Council (SUFFOLK REMSCO), two crews of the Huntington Community First Aid Squad (HCFAS) were recognized for saving the lives of two Huntington residents when they suffered sudden cardiac arrest. The first call came in on Saturday, July 13, 2019 for a 63 year old male who was reported to be pulseless and not breathing.  Prior to the ambulance’s arrival CPR and advanced life support intervention was initiated by SCPD Officer Garside. Patient was transferred to the ambulance and CPR was continued enroute to Huntington Hospital. Minutes after arriving at the ER the patient’s heart started beating on its own, he left the hospital neurologically intact.  The gentleman, Kris Kajander, was at the ceremony and was happy to see the police officer and the crew who saved his life receive a certificate and a Life Saver pin. He praised the members of HCFAS and SCPD for giving him second chance at life.

The second incident occurred the next day, July 14^{th ,} 2019.  HCFAS received a call for a 71 year old male who suffered a cardiac arrest witnessed by neighbors. Upon arrival CPR was initiated and a heart monitor was placed on him.   The EKG revealed ventricular fibrillation which is considered to be the most serious cardiac disturbance. A shock was administered and CPR continued.  While still on the scene return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), meaning his heart started beating again on its own, was achieved. An EKG revealed normal sinus rhythm.  The patient was monitored while being transport to the ER at Huntington Hospital. He too was able to be discharged from the hospital neurologically intact.

These two incidents show the importance of knowing how to provide CPR to a person who has suffered a sudden cardiac arrest.  CPR can save lives.

Huntington Community First Aid Squad provides CPR classes to the public. If you are interested in learning this life saving technique call HCFAS at                                631-421-1263