In Phoenix, another life is saved - the AED equation

© Phoenix Sky Harbor

It has happened for the 20th time at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX). An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) - in the hands of someone who knew what they were doing - has saved a life.

It happened on July 18 when a 73-year old man en route to California collapsed in a restroom. A couple of passengers performed CPR, while a US Airways customer service representative grabbed an AED. The passengers then proceeded to shock the man five times, and were able to restore his heartbeat. Phoenix Airport Police got the man into an ambulance and headed to a hospital. He was breathing on his own, alert and talking with paramedics in the ambulance.

Shortly after saving the man's life, one of the passengers who administered CPR headed to Hawaii; the other to Salt Lake City.

The point of all this? If you are not CPR trained, take a course. The American Red Cross can help. There are also other local programs run by hospitals. Some organizations conduct special AED courses as well.

As for AEDs themselves, they've become a common fixture in airports across the country. PHX first installed them in 2000. Since then, again, they've been instrumental is saving the lives of 20 people. Not a bad investment.

Phoenix Sky Harbor has more than 75 AEDs in public areas and workspaces - and airliners too are fitted with the machines.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler