Rescue Breathing Awareness: When Breathing Stops

In some medical emergencies, a person may stop breathing due to an allergic reaction, accident, sudden illness, or other causes. Rescue breathing is a first aid technique used to assist an unconscious person who is not breathing. In Canada, rescue breathing skills are taught in certified first aid and CPR courses, where participants learn the correct techniques under guidance.

Why Rescue Breathing Matters in First Aid & Workplaces (Canada)

In workplaces, fitness centres, childcare settings, public spaces, and community programs, trained bystanders may encounter someone who collapses or becomes unresponsive. Recognizing when breathing has stopped and activating the emergency response system quickly can influence outcomes. Rescue breathing and CPR are part of standardized training delivered by recognized first aid organizations.

Scenario: Mild, Realistic & Non-Dramatic

During a weekend hockey practice, a teenager collapsed after a collision and appeared unresponsive. A parent on the sidelines who had recently completed a workplace CPR course checked for responsiveness and called for emergency help. While another adult retrieved the facility’s first aid kit, trained volunteers monitored the teen’s breathing until paramedics arrived and took over. The teen recovered after hospital assessment.

How Rescue Breathing Works (Awareness Overview)

Rescue breathing involves assisting air into the lungs of an unresponsive person who is not breathing on their own. In certified courses, participants learn how to:

• Check for breathing and responsiveness

• Open and maintain a clear airway

• Deliver breaths using established first aid techniques

• Coordinate rescue breathing with CPR when necessary

• Work as a team while emergency services are activated

These techniques may vary for adults, children, and infants, which is why structured training is emphasized.

What Training Covers (General Concepts)

Certified first aid courses typically provide education on:

• Recognizing unresponsiveness

• Understanding airway positioning

• Safe use of barrier devices

• Situational precautions (e.g., water, sports, workplace hazards)

• How rescue breathing integrates with CPR and AED use

• Infection prevention practices and personal safety

• Communication with emergency responders

This structured environment ensures skills are learned safely and accurately without attempting procedures outside proper training.

Prevention & Workplace Considerations

Prevention focuses on reducing risks that could lead to respiratory emergencies, including:

• Managing allergies and known medical conditions

• Following workplace safety procedures

• Reducing exposure to hazardous substances

• Using protective equipment where required

• Maintaining emergency response plans and first aid resources

• Encouraging staff participation in first aid & CPR certification

Workplaces with higher injury or allergy risk (e.g., food services, manufacturing, sports facilities) often include CPR and rescue breathing training as part of their safety programs.

FAQ

1. Is rescue breathing the same as CPR?
No. CPR combines chest compressions with breaths in some protocols. Rescue breathing focuses on supporting ventilation when a person has a pulse but is not breathing.

2. Who learns rescue breathing?
It is commonly included in Canadian first aid, CPR, and workplace safety courses for adults, youth, and community volunteers.

3. Can rescue breathing be performed without training?
Formal training improves confidence, safety, and technique. Untrained bystanders should call emergency services and follow dispatcher guidance.

4. Does rescue breathing differ for children?
Yes. Techniques for adults, children, and infants vary, which is why structured training is emphasized.

5. Why is airway positioning important?
A clear airway allows air to move in and out of the lungs. Training teaches how to recognize and manage airway positioning safely.

Educational Note

This article supports public education and first aid awareness. Individuals interested in learning rescue breathing techniques should pursue certified first aid and CPR training in their community.