Calls for emergency medical services represents over 80% of the over 6,000 calls that Metro West responds to annually. We believe that everyone in our community should know what to do if a medical emergency impacts you or a loved one. Take a CPR class, learn how to use an AED, and take first aid so that you can help prior to our arrival.

Chest Discomfort

Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

​Discomfort in other areas of the upper body

Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

​Shortness of breath

With or without chest discomfort.

​Other Signs

May include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

Spot a Stroke Fast

  • Face Drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb.  As the person to smile
  • Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms.  Does one arm drift downward?
  • Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred, are they unable to speak, or are they hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sence, like “the sky is blue”. Is the sentence repeated correctly?
  • Time to Call 9-1-1 – If the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get them to the hospital immediately

Sudden Loss of Responsiveness

  • No response to tapping on shoulders

​No Normal Breathing

  • The victim does not take a normal breath when you tilt the head up and check for at least 5 seconds

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