Become a Sheepdog – Save a Life

Sheepdogs. I first heard that term in a seminar conducted by Lt. Colonel (ret) Dave Grossman in his discussion on community and school safety. Dave coined the terms sheep, sheepdogs, and wolves when he spoke about the United States Army in World War II in one of his books and about our society. Sheep and wolves had different meanings depending on the subject, but sheepdogs always remained the same. Sheepdogs are those people in our society willing to step up and help other people and in many cases save a life! 

Lt. Col. Grossman pointed out that in our society the usual groups, firemen, EMS, and law enforcement officers would be considered sheepdogs. But Dave’s main group and who he loved to speak to were teachers, the sheepdogs who keep our children safe in the schools. I add in my world those people who are willing to take the time to sit in one of my CPR/AED First Aid classes. 

Last Tuesday I had the privilege of meeting with Luigi Carvelli and several of his employees at his Snook Inn restaurant to conduct a first aid class. Luigi has been a staunch supporter of both the Marco Island Power Squadron as well as our upcoming MIAAOR/YMCA 5K walk/run and fall festival at the YMCA on Oct. 19th. So, I was happy to meet with Luigi and his people to talk about learning lifesaving skills. After commending everyone present for taking the time to learn life-saving skills and of course, thanking Luigi for offering the location and time to do this, we got right into it. The first and most important thing we discussed was the difference between a heart attack and a cardiac arrest. Both on how to recognize them and how to deal with them. My group of newly minted sheepdogs from the Carvelli group got right into beating up my CPR mannequin,kicking out those 100 to 120 beats a minute while knocking out the song “Staying Alive,” the perfect pace to do those compressions. Then we moved on to handling choking and bleeding emergencies, signs of a stroke, and much more. I commend Luigi Cavalli for his forward-thinkingidea of getting his employees first aid training.  

Medic First Aid points out 10 reasons why businesses should have CPR training as part of their employee training programs. Cardiac arrest can occur at any moment, turning an ordinary day into a life-threatening situation. That's where CPR certification becomes invaluable for helping to ensure the safety and well-being of employees and patrons. Here are some of the most compelling reasons why CPR training is important in the workplace.

1. Emergencies happen quickly and at any time. Emergencies are unpredictable and can strike at any moment. In the workplace — whether it's sudden cardiac arrest, a bleeding emergency, or any other medical emergency — having employees trained in CPR, AED, and First Aid can make the difference between life and death. Being prepared for such situations can mitigate risks and save lives. 

2. Formal CPR training meets regulatory needs. Adding CPR, AED, and First Aid training to your workplace safety plan isn’t just smart business — it’s usually required. Many industries require full CPR and AED training as part of their regulatory standards. By adhering to these regulations and safety requirements, organizations can avoid legal repercussions while also demonstrating their commitment to employee welfare. 

3. CPR training empowers employees to respond. CPR training empowers employees by equipping them with lifesaving skills and knowledge through hands-on practice and realistic scenarios.Knowing how to respond effectively in the event of an emergency — such as during a heart attack or a choking incident — instills confidence and a sense of responsibility. Employees feel empowered knowing they have the ability to potentially save a colleague's life or someone outside the workplace. 

4. Instructor-led CPR training improves retention. In-person, blended, and Remote Skills Verification (RSV) certification courses provide time for hands-on practice and real-time feedback from instructors. This interactive learning experience allows employees to practice and develop proficiency in performing high-quality CPR techniques, including chest compressions and rescue breaths.Formal training with a hands-on approach ensures that they can effectively apply their CPR skills in real-life scenarios. 

5. Investing in CPR training shows support for employees. Providing CPR training demonstrates an organization's commitment to the well-being of its employees. It sends a clear message that their safety and health are valued. This investment in employee welfare helps to foster a positive work environment, enhancing morale and loyalty. 

6. Workplace CPR training is often used elsewhere. CPR training acquired in the workplace isn't limited to on-the-job emergencies. The critical skills learned duringtraining can be invaluable in various settings beyond the workplace, including homes, public places, and during leisure activities — amplifying its lifesaving impact.Investing in CPR training for employees yields benefits that extend far beyond the confines of the workplace, often helping them to save a family member or another person’s life out in the community. 

7. CPR training reduces response times by making employees immediate responders. Every second counts during a medical emergency. Trained employees can initiate immediate CPR, significantly reducing response time until professional medical help arrives.This swift action can improve the victim’s chance of survival by maintaining blood flow to vital organs. In turn, this minimizes brain damage and the risk of long-term complications for the affected individual. 

8. CPR training helps to create a cultural shift towards safety. Incorporating CPR training into the workplace culture emphasizes the importance of safety and preparedness. When safety becomes ingrained in the organizational ethos, employees become more vigilant and proactive in identifying potential hazards and responding to emergencies effectively. 

9. CPR training serves as cost-effective risk management. While the initial investment in CPR training may seem significant, it pales in comparison to the potential costs associated with workplace accidents or medical emergencies. By mitigating risks and enhancing employee preparedness, full-certification CPR training contributes to cost-effective risk management for organizations. 

10. CPR training can provide a layer of legal protection. In the unfortunate event of a medical emergency resulting in injury or loss of life, having employees trained in CPR can provide legal protection to organizations. Demonstrating that reasonable measures were taken to prepare for emergencies can mitigate liability and safeguard the organization's reputation. 

Fortunately getting CPR/ARD and First Aid Training in our area is very easy for both yourselves personally as well as for your business employees. Our own Marco Island Fire Rescue department offers CPR/AED First Aid and stop the bleed classes on the third Saturday of every month. You can also schedule group classes with our fire department for a private class. One other thing I need to mention, Opioid overdoses, mainly Fentanyloverdoses in our community, and yes, Marco Island, too. Our fire department has free NARCAN kits along with the training on how to use them. Just call Fire Rescues main number 239-389-5040 to schedule a class. 

The Marco IslandSail and Power Squadron,in addition to offering many great boating classes at their office located on the second level of the Speakeasy Plaza, 1114 North Collier Blvd, also offers both free CPR/ARD First Aid Classes along with Situational Awareness how to be safer in your everyday lives’ presentations every month. Click on the attached QR code for more information on dates and times. 

So, the bottom line is, be responsible, BECOME A SHEEPDOG and learn how to save a life!