Fall River firefighters, EMS, bystanders, combine to save the life of woman at pool

According to IAFF L-1314 Fall River Firefighters Union, yesterday, members at the Flint Station (Engine 9 and Ladder 4) had a respiratory arrest across the street at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Swimming Pool at Lafayette Park.

The doorbell was rung at the station by an Environmental Police Officer notifying the fire personnel at the station there was a “person down” in the pool area and CPR was in progress. Both crews of Engine 9 and Ladder 4, immediately grabbed their medical bags and ran across the street to render emergency medical care. Fire Alarm was also called to report this emergency so a Medic Unit and Squad 11 could be dispatched from EMS.

Members were able to continue CPR that was started from bystanders and were able to give her oxygen via a bag valve mask. A Medic Unit arrived a few short minutes later and Squad 11 immediately followed to provide advanced medical care. Collectively, the efforts were able to successfully revive this woman.

The union recognized the bystanders that performed the immediate CPR.

“It’s critical to minimize the down time without oxygen. Beginning chest compressions immediately can still circulate the oxygen that is currently in the body. If you don’t know CPR, please take a class and bring a friend or family member with you. You could save a life. It could even be a loved one.”