On the morning of March 30, 2019, tragedy was averted and a life saved thanks to the teamwork of a bystander and Your Los Angeles Fire Department.

Just after 7:30AM, Mr James Handel saw a 41-year old man collapase in the street and start shaking. Mr Handel took immediate action, calling 9-1-1.  While many people are hesitant to become involved in an emergency situation, Mr Handel did not delay and was the instrumental "first step" in the following chain of events.  Firefighter/Paramedic Hugo Tadeo answered the 9-1-1 call at Metropolitan Fire Communications and quickly took control of the caller, identifyed the emergency and calmly, clearly provided life-saving instructions. Under the guidance of Firefighter/Paramedic Tadeo, Mr Handle performed Hands-Only CPR for the few minutes before Engine and Paramedic Rescue 39 on scene.

The crews of Engine and Rescue 39 initated advanced life saving medical care, using the defibrillator to shock the patient's heart which caused him to regain consciousness.  A rapid transport to the hospital and further care resulted in a life saved and tragedy averted.

The "Chain of Survival" describes the critical steps needed to give a victim of cardiac arrest the chance to live and the chain was unbroken. Mr Handel called 9-1-1 right away, he followed Firefighter/Paramedic Hugo's instructions for CPR and Engine / Rescue 39 administored the defibrillation and advanced care while transporting him to the hospital.

We are so grateful for citizens like Mr Handel who will do what is needed to help a stranger and we are proud of the professionalism of Your LAFD members.  We were honored to recognize the efforts of all involved at a recent Board of Fire Commissioners Meeting. More photos are availabe in our online photo album.