Lincoln Fire and Rescue is urging residents to download the PulsePoint Responder app and activate CPR alerts during Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month. LFR’s MJ Lierman says about 15,000 people in Lincoln and the surrounding area have downloaded the app, but only about 4,600 have their CPR notifications turned on.
Lierman says PulsePoint can alert users to a cardiac arrest in a public location within about a mile and three-quarters, allowing nearby people to begin helping before emergency crews arrive.
“Being ready and responding right away is critical for the survivors.” Lierman says the chances of survival declines by about 10 percent for every minute a person goes without CPR. She says residents don’t necessarily have to perform CPR themselves to make a difference. They can call 911, locate an automated external defibrillator, or assist someone already providing chest compressions.
Lincoln Fire and Rescue responds to an average of 40 to 50 cardiac-related calls each month, although not all involve confirmed cardiac arrests. “If you were having a cardiac arrest or your family member was, would you want your circle filled up with people that were ready to help or would you like to have just maybe one or two?”
Residents can download PulsePoint Responder and enable location services and CPR alerts to receive notifications when someone nearby needs help.