CPR can mean the difference between life and death, and now, one local reporter is learning just how necessary that training is.

For Tamara Tries, Tamara Starr visited Mohawk Ambulance Services in Albany County to learn more about life-saving skills, including understanding vital signs and the importance of CPR training.

With guidance from certified EMS professionals, Tamara practiced chest compressions, rescue breathing, and the proper use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). The goal: to understand what everyday people can do in those critical minutes before first responders arrive.

Tamara’s experience highlights not only the challenges EMS workers face but also how accessible lifesaving training can be for the public. More information on local CPR training sessions is available through Mohawk Ambulance and the American Heart Association.

According to the New York State EMS Workforce Report, the number of active EMS responders in New York State declined by 17.5% between 2019 and 2022. This decline has presented challenges for EMS in responding to emergencies effectively, particularly as the demand for emergency medical care continues to increase.

To learn more about how you can volunteer, visit the NYS Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Association. And check out Mohawk Ambulance Services to learn more about career opportunities.