Automatic chest compression device could aid emergency personnel in life-saving procedure

New device to save lives Jeff Keele on how local paramedics and firefighters will soon have access to a hands free device that could save a patient's life.

Emergency staff in Winnipeg could soon have help performing a life-saving procedure.

The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service demonstrated an automatic chest compression device at city hall it calls ‘rock star CPR.’ Four of them have been tested in Winnipeg since August.

The service wants to outfit 24 ambulances at a cost of $438,000.

WFPS officials say the device significantly increases the rate of uninterrupted chest compressions and reduces injuries for patients, paramedics and firefighters.

The city's innovation committee is considering the request.

The WFPS is also asking for $12,000 in annual funding for an app that alerts people trained in CPR when someone in their vicinity is having a heart attack.

The Innovation committee agreed to spend $70,000 to fund four devices while seeking a funding partner for the rest.