Saving Lives With CPR

Courtesy of Daniel Ruacho, Laguna Beach, California. June 1st – 7th is National CPR and AED Awareness Week in the United States. Daniel Ruacho of the American Heart Association says, “This week spotlights how lives can be saved if more people living in the U.S. know the lifesaving skill of CPR and how to use an AED. Did you know about 70% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in homes? If you are called on to give CPR in an emergency, you most likely will be trying to save the life of someone you love. Be the difference for your parent, spouse or child.” As one example of the importance of these skills, Ryan Ballance, a retired fireman and waterman originally from Long Beach, California, has saved two lives this season, using CPR. His first one was at Laguna Beach along the shoreline and latest safe was in the swimming pool in the same city. Stacey Muñatones reported, “We are so lucky we have first responders like Ryan to watch over us in the Pacific and in the pool. He reacts so quickly and is always so diligent.” Ryan Ballance was honored with a City proclamation: Whereas, On February 25, 2019, Ryan Ballance successfully rescued a drowning swimmer at the High School and Community Pool; and Whereas, Ballance is a Pool Lifeguard for the City of Laguna Beach, bound by a duty to act while carrying out his job responsibilities; and Whereas, The Community Services department prides itself on its tradition of providing exceptional service to its residents; and Whereas, Ballance responded quickly and professionally, and displayed a high degree of skill and expertise in his life-saving actions; and Whereas, The swimmer made a full recovery with no lasting heart or brain damage thanks to Ballance’s efforts. Now, therefore, The City Council of the City of Laguna Beach, congratulates and recognizes, on behalf of the entire community, Ballance’s excellent work and successful rescue and resuscitation…congratulations! Bob Whalen, Mayor For more information, visit www.heart.org/cprweek Copyright © 2008-2019 by World Open Water Swimming Association