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Quick help, AED save life

FALLBROOK — Four individuals and a doctor have been credited with saving the life of an 82-year-old Vista resident on February 14.

The man, who wants to remain anonymous, was saved after bystanders preformed CPR and used an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) when he went into cardiac arrest.

The incident occurred at Fallbrook High School, where the man was watching his grandson play in a basketball game. When North County Fire received the call, paramedics were told a person was unconscious.

The incident occurred after the basketball game had ended and spectators were mingling and waiting for the players to shower and return to their families. Those on the scene heard a loud noise and then noticed the gentleman lying face down on the gym floor.

“If it weren’t for the quick actions of Dr. Michael Krak; his wife, Lydia; the school trainer, Shannon Zolla; and two other bystanders, it’s quite possible that without bystander CPR and the use of an AED, the outcome could have been different,” said John Buchanan, public information officer for North County Fire.

Originally, the use of an AED was initiated by airlines. It, along with CPR, greatly increases one’s chance for survival.

North County Fire has taken on the task on purchasing AEDs (through grants) and providing training to use them at schools in Fallbrook, Bonsall and Rainbow.

“This plays a significant part in ensuring the safety of our children, teachers and visitors,” said Buchanan.

 

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