Last weekend, Alameda emergency dispatchers received a call about an unresponsive infant. According to the Alameda Police Department (APD), an APD officer noticed the incoming call and immediately proceeded to the scene. The officer took the baby and performed chest compressions. Alameda Fire Department (AFD) personnel arrived soon after and transported the infant to a local hospital. During transport, the baby regained a pulse and began breathing on their own. Doctors credited the quick response from APD and AFD personnel, citing the baby’s life was likely saved by the first responders.

Knowing how to perform CPR on an infant is vital. Performing CPR on an infant is different than an adult. According to the American Red Cross, these are the steps if an infant is choking:

• Kneel beside the baby.
• Perform chest compressions by pushing hard and fast. For infants, use one or two fingers to deliver 30 quick compressions that are each about 1.5 inches deep.
• Give two rescue breaths. For infants, use your mouth to make a complete seal over the infant’s mouth and nose, then blow in for one second to make the chest rise.
• Continue until you see obvious signs of life, until an automated external defibrillator is ready to use, another trained responder is available to take over, you’re too exhausted to continue, or the scene becomes unsafe.