TL;DR: Security guards play a vital role in maintaining public safety and often act as first responders during medical emergencies. A recent incident at Alabama’s Regional Airport demonstrated this when CPR-trained security personnel saved a passenger who collapsed. Given Alabama’s high rates of heart disease and strokes, CPR certification boosts their confidence, improves team dynamics, and ensures they can act decisively in high-stress situations, ultimately enhancing public safety and trust.
We often see security officers and guards quietly patrolling our public spaces, protecting our safety and maintaining order from the background. While their first duty is to prevent incidents and manage security risks, there are times when they must step up and act as first responders. That is especially true when a member of the public experiences a medical emergency in a public place.
Take, for instance, what happened at Alabama’s Regional Airport when a passenger waiting in the ticket line became disoriented and later lost consciousness. The airport’s security team quickly noticed the situation and rushed to give him immediate assistance, including administering CPR. Thanks to their immediate reaction and use of CPR, they were able to resuscitate the passenger and keep him stable until emergency medical services got there.
Incidents like these show why it’s essential that people involved in security services receive comprehensive CPR training so they can always put our safety first. This article will discuss the role of CPR certification in security services and why it’s a necessary skill for those tasked with our safety.
The Role of Security Services During Medical Emergencies
These days, the role of security personnel is wider than just providing physical security. They must also have the skills and training to address various medical issues that might happen in the public spaces in which they work.
There is scientific evidence that Alabama is a part of the so-called ‘Stroke Belt’ and ‘Heart Failure Belt.’ This means the likelihood of encountering such medical emergencies is higher, so security staff must be well-prepared for these specific situations and others, which can include:
- Cardiac Arrest: Approximately 17.3% of all cardiac arrests happen in public places. Security staff with CPR training can immediately react and start resuscitation, significantly improving the victim’s outcome.
- Fainting: A person can faint due to dehydration, low blood sugar, or sudden drops in blood pressure. CPR-trained security staff can assess the situation, put the person in a safe position, and monitor their breathing and pulse until further help arrives.
- Seizures: People may have seizures due to epilepsy, head injuries, or other underlying conditions. Security staff trained in CPR and first aid can protect the individual from injury during the seizure, help maintain an open airway, and provide post-seizure care.
- Choking: Such incidents caused 5,554 deaths in the US in 2022. Security personnel trained in the Heimlich maneuver and CPR can dislodge the obstruction and restore normal breathing. Their prompt intervention can prevent the situation from becoming fatal.
- Allergic reactions: Security staff trained in recognizing early signs of severe allergic reactions can administer an epinephrine auto-injector if available and perform CPR if the individual stops breathing.
Benefits of CPR Certification for Security Personnel
Security personnel with CPR certification can intervene during medical emergencies in various settings, including corporate environments, public events, and residential areas. This certification means they are prepared to respond to most medical emergencies, which increases the overall safety and well-being of the community they serve.
Fast Response to Medical Emergencies
One of the primary benefits of CPR certification for security personnel is the ability to respond quickly to medical emergencies. When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, every second counts. Immediate CPR can significantly increase the victim’s odds of survival by two to three times. Security personnel are often the first on the scene in many emergencies, and their ability to perform CPR promptly can make a substantial difference in someone’s life.
Increased Confidence and Competence
Knowing they have the skills to handle a life-threatening situation empowers security personnel to act decisively and efficiently. Confidence is a significant part of managing emergencies. When people feel prepared, they are more likely to take immediate action.
Studies show that individuals with CPR training are more inclined to perform CPR in a crisis, providing victims with the necessary assistance without delay. Such a proactive approach saves lives and demonstrates the dedication of security personnel to their duty of care.
Better Team Dynamics
When all team members have CPR training, it creates a cohesive unit that can work together seamlessly during emergencies. Each member knows their role in this collaborative environment and can provide support.
A medical emergency calls for effective communication and coordination, and a team well-versed in CPR can execute its responsibilities with greater precision and efficiency. This unity increases the victim’s outcome and improves the security team’s overall performance and morale.
Real-World Applications in Security Settings
Places with big crowds have the potential for medical emergencies. Whether it’s a mall, office, or stadium, situations can arise where immediate medical attention is needed. At those times, the security guard is the first person people turn to for help. Knowing how to perform CPR can significantly impact these critical moments.
CPR in Corporate Environments
According to OSHA, around 10,000 people experience sudden cardiac arrests at work each year. Unfortunately, many coworkers do not know how to help or even where to find the AED. Security officers can quickly assess the situation, call for medical assistance, and start CPR when someone collapses. They can also locate and use an AED if available. Their training allows them to act decisively, potentially stabilizing the individual until professional medical help arrives.
CPR in Public Spaces
Public spaces such as malls, parks, and events are prone to medical incidents requiring immediate action. Examples include someone suddenly collapsing while shopping or a person fainting during a public event. Security officers in these settings must be proactive in their approach to public safety.
They can provide immediate medical assistance and manage the crowd so the affected person receives the needed attention without delay. By being vigilant and ready to act, security personnel contribute significantly to the safety and well-being of individuals in public spaces.
High-Risk Areas and Events
High-risk areas like concerts, sports events, and political rallies pose unique challenges for security teams. These settings often involve large crowds and heightened activities, increasing the likelihood of medical emergencies.
Security roles in these environments go beyond maintaining order – they include the ability to respond swiftly to health crises. CPR skills are particularly relevant here. For example, security officers must provide CPR and use an AED if someone collapses due to a heart condition during a public event.
CPR Training and Certification Process
When selecting a credible CPR certification program for security services, look for courses aligned with the AHA or the Red Cross. That means the training meets high standards and is up-to-date with the latest medical guidelines. A good program should include both theoretical and practical components.
Theoretical training covers:
- Essential knowledge about the cardiovascular system
- Recognizing emergencies
- Understanding the steps of CPR
Practical training includes:
- Hands-on practice with manikins
- Simulated emergency scenarios
- Using an AED
The training covers everything that helps you develop the muscle memory and confidence to perform CPR effectively.
Keep the Public Safe With CPR
When security personnel are CPR-certified, they can actively help during medical emergencies and further help the community. Their ability to use resuscitation techniques can help stabilize situations until professional medical help arrives. This preparedness saves lives and instills a sense of security among the public.
Attend our CPR classes in Montgomery, Alabama, to transform yourself into a capable and versatile first responder who can help in any situation. Learn the lifesaving skills that can help you assist a person in medical need in any public space. Be the hero your community deserves – call us to schedule a class today!