Winnipeg Bystanders Step Up for One-Third of Heart Attack Victims
If someone suffers a heart attack in Winnipeg, there is roughly a one-in-three chance that a bystander will attempt to save their life before paramedics arrive. This encouraging statistic highlights the critical role everyday people play during medical emergencies—and how lifesaving CPR training can make a real difference.
According to data published by the City of Winnipeg, bystanders attempted cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in 31 per cent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest cases in 2016. In total, CPR was provided 373 times out of 1,214 cardiac emergencies, often during the crucial minutes before professional medical help arrived. These findings were originally reported by CBC News and can be read in full Winnipeg bystanders step up to the plate for a third of heart attack patients.
Real-Life Bystander CPR in Action
One widely reported incident involved a Winnipeg man who stopped during rush-hour traffic to help an Indigenous man suffering a heart attack on a downtown sidewalk.
While many people passed by, a small group stepped in—one bystander called 911, another helped keep the victim warm, and the rescuer began CPR immediately. The victim, believed to be in his 40s, was clutching his chest and losing consciousness. He had reportedly suffered a heart attack the day before and was still wearing a hospital bracelet. Paramedics arrived approximately 10 minutes later and transported the man to hospital, where he was later reported to be in stable condition.
Why CPR Training Matters
Officials with the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service say the city’s bystander response rate has remained fairly consistent over the years, but they continue to stress the importance of CPR education. Knowing how to perform CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) can dramatically increase a cardiac arrest victim’s chances of survival.
This is why enrolling in a recognized CPR and AED training program, such as those offered through is an important step for anyone who wants to be prepared to act in an emergency.
What to Do During a Heart Attack Emergency
Despite increased public willingness to help, emergency officials strongly advise anyone witnessing a suspected heart attack to call 911 immediately. Dispatchers can provide step-by-step CPR instructions over the phone until paramedics arrive.
Those first few minutes can save a life.
Serving Calgary and the surrounding areas the lowest priced, highest quality OH&S approved first aid training, CPR and food safety courses for over 15 years!
Support locally-owned and Canadian-operated businesses, with no partnerships or links with American corporations.