Defibrillator and Fast Response Credited With Saving Man’s Life at Canada Games Complex
The quick actions of staff at the Canada Games Complex, along with the availability of a public defibrillator, are being credited with saving the life of a 64-year-old man who collapsed during a squash game earlier this week.
This story was first reported by CBC News, and you can read the original article here:
Defibrillator, quick response, credited for saving man’s life at Canada Games Complex
A Medical Emergency Met With Immediate Action
According to a release from Superior North EMS, the incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday when the man suddenly collapsed on the court. Staff immediately called 911, and a complex supervisor along with two lifeguards rushed to help. They found him unresponsive, not breathing, and without a pulse.
With no time to spare, they began CPR and used the facility’s automated external defibrillator (AED). The AED delivered a shock, and CPR continued until the man’s pulse returned. Thunder Bay paramedics arrived shortly after and took over care.
The man was transported to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, where he continues to receive treatment.
CPR and AED Training: A Skill That Truly Saves Lives
Superior North EMS Deputy Chief Andrew Dillon emphasized how critical AEDs and CPR training are in emergencies:
“The next time you enter a public facility … I encourage you to find the location of the public access defibrillator and if you have not done so yet, take a CPR course. It’s a skill I hope you will never have to use, but if needed, you can save a life.”
This incident highlights just how impactful early CPR and AED use can be. Similar life-saving responses have been reported at community centres throughout Northwestern Ontario, reinforcing the value of public defibrillators and trained responders.
If you want to learn these skills, consider enrolling in a CPR and AED training program. Courses like these teach you how to recognize cardiac arrest, perform CPR effectively, and use an AED with confidence.
Why Every Second Matters
Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere—during sports, at work, in public spaces, or at home. When someone’s heart stops, the chances of survival drop rapidly with every passing minute. CPR keeps blood flowing, and an AED can restore a normal rhythm. Together, they significantly increase the chances of survival and recovery.
Knowing where nearby AEDs are located—and being trained to use them—can make an enormous difference.
Learn More
For additional information on CPR and defibrillation, explore these helpful resources:
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