Press Release

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Tuesday, September 17, 2013

People who live and work in Clayton may soon stand a better chance of surviving a heart emergency thanks to the city's commitment to earn the HeartSafe Community Designation from Contra Costa Health Services' Emergency Medical Services Division.

A HeartSafe Community is one that has established a "strong chain of survival," meaning a higher-than-average number of residents are empowered to recognize heart emergencies, know how to perform CPR, can access an automated external defibrillator and initiate advanced life support by calling 911.

"We want people to know that if they come to Clayton, there are knowledgeable residents willing to take action," said Clayton Police Chief Chris Thorsen. "We encourage our entire community to get involved in this effort and learn critical skills that could save the life of a friend or family member."

Clayton has qualified for the HeartSafe Community designation by completing specific tasks, like training residents in CPR, placing automated external defibrillators in public spaces, launching a community awareness campaign, and other activities to increase survival of heart emergencies, EMS Medical Director Joe Barger said.

"We commend Clayton for showing that it is willing to take these measures that ensure the health of its community members," Barger said. "Many people are affected by heart disease in Contra Costa County, so it is vital that we collaborate in making our county HeartSafe."

Heart disease one of the leading causes of death in Contra Costa County. Serious injury and death from heart disease can be reduced when a community has a strong chain of survival in place, Barger said.

Other HeartSafe communities in Contra Costa County include Alamo, Blackhawk, Concord, Danville, Diablo, El Cerrito, Kensington, and San Ramon.

To find out more about the HeartSafe Community campaign, visit www.cchealth.org/ems/heartsafe.php

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