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It can happen to anyone—and it can quickly become a matter of life or death. Good fortune was with one valley visitor who was dining at a local steakhouse Tuesday evening. His good fortune came in the form of officers from the Phoenix Police Department.
A CPR refresher class is held annually for all Phoenix police officers. The academy training entitles them to CPR certification and includes training for the Heimlich maneuver. On Tuesday, February 2, 2010, a group of Phoenix South Mountain Precinct officers attended the training and then went to dinner at a nearby steakhouse on south 19th Avenue in Phoenix. As they were enjoying their meal, they noticed some commotion at another table. A patron appeared to be choking and it was clear to them that he was in distress. Another patron was trying unsuccessfully to help the man who was about to lose consciousness.
With the help of his squad mates, Phoenix Officer Michael Paulson was able to get the man into position so that he could deliver a “textbook” Heimlich maneuver. His swift moves dislodged the obstruction from the man’s airway and he began to breathe normally. Paramedics had been summoned and they assessed the man’s condition and determined he would be just fine.
The victim and his family, visitors to the valley, were very grateful to all of the officers as were the restaurant’s management and patrons. Learning CPR is training everyone should receive and is available through numerous valley locations. Click here for suggestions.