General News
19 March, 2025
Residents learn lifesaving skills
Rainbow and Jeparit residents attended an informative session led by Ambulance Victoria’s Yarriambiack/Hindmarsh paramedic community support coordinator, Gemma Pfeiffer, to learn vital summer safety and first-aid skills.
Nine community members, including children in Rainbow and one in Jeparit, participated in discussions last week about pool safety, heart health and emergency response techniques like CPR and defibrillator use.
Ms Pfeiffer highlighted the importance of staying prepared, even as summer winds down.
“We want to make sure everyone stays on top of their pool safety, their heart health and of course, their ‘Call, Push, Shock’ in case of a cardiac arrest,” she said.
Participants discussed pool safety measures such as following poolside rules, knowing the location of first aid equipment and supervising children around water.
Ms Pfeiffer also stressed the importance of staying hydrated, watching elderly neighbours or those without support, and ensuring that no one, including pets, remains in a hot car.
“Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency, and if someone experiences symptoms, calling Triple Zero (000) immediately is critical,” she said.
The session focused on Ambulance Victoria’s ‘Call, Push, Shock’ approach, which encourages immediate action in a cardiac emergency.
“If you think someone is experiencing cardiac arrest, call Triple Zero (000), start CPR by pushing hard and fast in the centre of the chest at 100 to 120 beats per minute, and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available,” Ms Pfeiffer said.
Community members raised concerns about safety risks, including allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
They discussed the dangers of bees around pools and how to assist someone experiencing anaphylaxis.
Ms Pfeiffer said asthma triggers in outdoor environments and explained how to help someone use an asthma puffer.
As public pools begin closing for the season, Ms Pfeiffer urged residents to remain vigilant about safety.
“Play your part, be smart in summer, and care for yourself and others,” she said.
She also encouraged residents to use the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department for non-urgent and non-life-threatening emergencies.
“If you’re unsure whether someone needs an ambulance, visit www.vved.org.au to access professional advice via telehealth without needing to visit an emergency department,” she said.