90 Seconds To Save a Life
When the Bielik family arrived at CLT from Austin, Texas, for a seven-hour layover en route to Paris, France, they stopped to eat in the Plaza Food Court—and that’s when their morning plans changed.
They suddenly found themselves at a hands-only CPR and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Awareness event in the terminal Atrium – the first time this type of Community Outreach event was offered to both the traveling public and employees sitewide.
“Our five kids (ages 6-20) needed to get some activity out of their system, and one of the Airport workers came by and promoted it, and I thought, ‘It’s time for you kids to go learn how to save some lives,” said Dennis Bielik. “Because you never know what’s going to happen in life, so it’s always good to be prepared and not be afraid of stepping in when it matters.”
Passengers Crystal Edwards and Andrew Melton stopped by on their way back to Albany, N.Y., after a weekend graduation in Charlotte.
“We still have three hours until our flight, and I saw the signs promoting it, and I’ve never learned how to do CPR before,” admitted Edwards.
“I took CPR training years ago, and I like to stay on top of this stuff, so it is just a good skill to know,” added Melton. “This was very educational, and the people here are awesome.”
Important Community Outreach
The CLT Risk, Safety & Health team partnered with the American Heart Association (AHA) and Medic to host the free training session. Approximately 109 employees and 63 passengers attended.
The emphasis was on the “Chain of Survival” and on familiarizing people with life-saving techniques, so they aren’t afraid to use them if needed. From calling 911 during a cardiac event to starting CPR compressions and using an AED, participants received a quick 90-second demonstration.
The Bee Gees' classic song “Staying Alive” was played on a loop to remind participants of the correct “beat” to maintain during CPR – 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
“Unfortunately, these types of events happen every day at the Airport,” said CLT Customer Engagement Manager Lauri Golden. “And the best thing that we can do is bring more awareness and a comfort level so that people know how to take action if and when this type of event happens around them.”
CLT has one of the highest save rates among Airports and has increased the number of AED units on campus to 196, including the terminal and parking areas. They are strategically located in accordance with the AHA recommendation that rescuers be able to reach an AED within a 3-5-minute round-trip walk to and from the emergency site.
“Of course, we have first responders in our building, and this is their critical role and function at the Airport, “added Golden. “But anyone can be a lifesaver; we can all step in.”
More Training Opportunities
To learn more about CPR, AED training and First Aid events in your area, visit the American Heart Association website.