August 21 Kiwanis Program: Marty Sechehay and Peter Herslow spoke about the Chatham Emergency Squad and the importance of learning CPR.

Kiwanian Marty Sechehay (right in photo) introduced Peter Herslow, member of the Chatham Emergency Squad for 29 years, who spoke about CPR and choking first aid. Peter teaches CPR and heimlich maneuver classes. The presentation was a high level overview and Peter recommends that all Kiwanis members, friends and relatives take a class to learn the details.

Peter began by saying that everyone should know that the definition of a heart attack is that part of the person’s heart dies. He reviewed the symptoms of a heart attack. A definition of a stroke is that part of a person’s brain dies. He also reviewed the symptoms of a stroke. For both afflictions, the survival of the patient is improved dramatically if he or she is taken quickly to the hospital (Morristown or Overlook in our area).

CPR has changed. Mouth-to-mouth is no longer recommended. CPR now consists of pounding on the chest for 8-10 minutes. Of course, the first thing to do is call 911 for help. Peter described the heimlich maneuver, which is now called the abdominal thrust – it is the same thing. The universal distress signal for choking is to grasp your neck with your hands.

Working with a volunteer from the audience, Peter demonstrated how the abdominal thrust is done. Before doing it, ask the person: “are you choking?” If they answer, do not apply the heimlich maneuver. If the choking person is a pregnant woman or a very overweight person, the process is different.

Marty Sechehay came to the podium to offer a free, dedicated, hands-on, 1-2 hour complete, detailed CPR class to Kiwanis members, relatives and friends. Learning how to effectively do CPR requires classroom practice. Mary asked everyone to send him an email applying for the class, to be held after the middle of September.

Members of the audience enthusiastically applauded Peter’s informative and entertaining talk. To learn more about the Chatham Emergency Squad, please visit their website.