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Off-duty firefighter-EMT helps save man’s life

Dan Buelow performed a sternal rub to test consciousness before beginning CPR

By EMS1 Staff

HARRISBURG, Pa. — An off-duty firefighter-EMT’s quick actions helped saved the life of a man who suffered a massive heart attack over the weekend.

Norwich Township firefighter-EMT Dan Buelow was out of town at his son’s volleyball tournament when a coach fell ill. Buelow performed a sternal rub to test consciousness before beginning CPR.

“We rub really hard on the chest. Sometimes it’s very uncomfortable … [people will] yell at you,” Buelow told ABC6.

After getting no response, Buelow located an AED and began CPR until paramedics arrived. The man was transported to the hospital. Doctors said had CPR not been so quickly performed, the man may have died.

Buelow said the incident will stick with him.

“I was on my own for a little bit. I didn’t have any equipment I’m used to having,” Buelow said. “I didn’t have all my buddies with me so this will sit with me a little bit.”