𝗩𝗧 𝗦𝗲𝘃𝗮 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗶𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗟𝗦 & 𝗖𝗣𝗥 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴

On September 4th, 2024, VT Seva Detroit volunteers had the unique opportunity to undergo Basic Life Support (BLS) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training, gaining invaluable life-saving skills. Hosted at the Novi Fire Department, the training was conducted through the American Heart Association and led by experienced professionals, Fire Fighter Krabach and Lieutenant Pierson. The session lasted 3.5 hours, from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM, and equipped volunteers with essential skills that could make all the difference in critical emergency situations.

The course covered:

●        CPR for Adults and Children

●        Use of Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

●        Barrier Mask use

●        Handling choking emergencies.

This hands-on training involved extensive practice using mannequins, allowing volunteers to master techniques like chest compressions and valve mask breath support—key components of resuscitation when someone collapses due to a medical emergency like cardiac arrest or choking. The volunteers showed tremendous enthusiasm, practicing the life-saving techniques repeatedly under the careful supervision of Lt. Pierson and FF Krabach. Their guidance and expertise were instrumental in ensuring each participant gained confidence and competence in these critical skills.

The session concluded with a 1:1 skills test, where each VT Seva Detroit volunteer had to demonstrate their knowledge and answer questions posed by the trainers. Volunteers who passed the test will receive a 2-year American Heart Association Certification Card upon completion.

This training was not just an educational experience but an empowering one, equipping volunteers to act as first responders in emergency situations. VT Seva Detroit volunteers eagerly embraced the challenge, and it was a highly rewarding day for everyone who took part in the free certification course.

This event is another step forward in VT Seva's commitment to serving the community and equipping volunteers with the tools they need to make a real difference.

Reflections:

Varshan Muhinthan

It is nearly impossible to predict when someone will go into cardiac arrest. Not being able to perform the procedure to keep someone’s heart pumping in such a situation can cost a life. Being able to know exactly what to do if I come across a similar scenario is something that I very much appreciate for this very reason. Thanks to this opportunity, I not only learned the essentials of performing CPR but also feel confident in my ability to act according to possibly save a life in the future.

Ritvik Harsha

CPR training was an eye-opening experience that gave me the confidence to act in emergencies and potentially save lives. It’s empowering to know that a few simple techniques can make such a critical difference when someone's life is on the line. I very much encourage all youth to take advantage of this valuable training, as it not only enables you to respond in emergencies but also instills a sense of responsibility that everyone should have.