Last week Ada High School seniors spent two class periods with Ada-Liberty EMS chief Tom Miller and Mercy Health EMS coordinator Brian Anderson learning about responding to medical emergencies. The sessions emphasized that as a friend, family member, teammate, coworker or bystander they may someday be in a position to save someone's life.

The students learned when to call 911, including if they suspect a heart attack or stroke. The instructors emphasized that minutes count in these instances and that some forms of treatment begin on location by EMS crews.

The discussion included CPR and AEDs, automated external defibrillators, which are used to analyze the heart rhythm and deliver a shock in the case of cardiac arrest. Miller and Anderson explained that 911 operators can guide callers who are not trained in CPR on how to perform compressions and that AED devices actually talk to the user, providing instructions on their use.

Another situation requiring immediate assistance is when trauma results in severe bleeding. The instructors reviewed how to use pressure, packing and tourniquets to stop severe bleeding and prevent potentially fatal heavy blood loss.

The students had the opportunity to examine and ask questions about CPR manikins, tourniquets and practice legs, and an AED training device.

The Ada-Liberty EMS can provide emergency preparedness programs for groups and businesses. For more information, contact Chief Miller at 419-634-7729.