IN response to the alarming heat index across the country and the rising probability of heat-related heart attacks, Quezon City District V Representative PM Vargas warns the public of the looming danger of the temperature as he introduces a legislative proposal to mandate first aid training for cardiac arrest.
“With the temperatures soaring high, we cannot afford to overlook the escalating threat of heat-related illnesses, particularly cardiac arrest, which can occur suddenly without warning”, states the legislator.
House Bill 4464 otherwise known as “CPR and First Aid in Schools Act” is an initiative by Vargas to equip citizens, particularly those in the schools with life-saving skills to address emergencies effectively, especially in those situations exacerbated by extreme heat.
Vargas explains that the proposed intervention shall cover a training program for essential life support techniques, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), to empower individuals to respond effectively during emergencies.
While the proposed legislation addresses emergency cases of cardiac arrest, the legislator adds that extra precautions against the scorching heat can also save lives further warning citizens to “ stay indoors as much as possible and keep hydrated”.
An earlier version of the proposed bill was also lobbied by the legislator’s older brother and former QC District V Representative Alfred Vargas during the 18th Congress.
Among the government’s efforts to protect citizens from the dangers of heat are the constant reminders of the Department of Health for citizens to keep in cool, well-ventilated areas and the Department of Education’s transition to online or modular classes instead of face-to-face.
