Chickasaw County EMS Director Says Early CPR Key in Cardiac Arrest

The work of ambulance crews, paramedics and first responders was thrown into the national spotlight during Monday Night Football on January 2nd.

Buffalo Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest during the game at the Cincinnati Bengals and collapsed on the field of play. Emergency personnel were credited with saving Hamlin’s life due to their quick response.

Joel Knutson, director of the new Chickasaw County EMS department and the County-run ambulance service, says early CPR is key.

Knutson adds that he’s never had to respond to provide CPR to an athlete during the course of competition.

Less than a week after his collapse, Hamlin’s breathing tube was removed and he began walking. Wednesday (01.11), he was released from the hospital.