Today’s story is how one of our security guards helped save a life with CPR

Today’s story is how one of our security guards helped save a life with CPR

Read on to hear his amazing story in this edition of Security Guard Stories.

Setting up the story

It was late at night and security officer Smith* was making his rounds at the condominium complex he worked at. Things were quiet. He was chatting with Emily*, the front end manager of the complex. They had just received an unusual request by a gentlemen whose friend lived in the building. Apparently the gentlemen was a bit concerned saying he hadn’t heard from his friend in quite awhile and asked the employee and security guard to check on him.

Requests like this often come in when you work security at a community building, so it wasn’t too much of a surprise. Some people appreciate the added level of communication when choosing a place to live and it’s always nice to know there’s a level of security present for yourself and loved ones! Officer Smith had always been taught to take concerns seriously. He knew not to brush off the request so he and Emily went to the man’s apartment. They were followed by the man’s friend who anxiously awaited more information.

The situation

At the apartment door both Officer Smith and Emily tried knocking several times. There was no answer. The three called through the door with no result. Everyone was starting to get concerned. It was a tense moment not knowing what was going on behind the door. Finally Emily unlocked the door with a master key - and none of them expected what came next.

[Warning: Graphic Information Ahead]

They went in the apartment and immediately found the man hanging from a support bar with a belt around his neck!

Officer Smith acted fast knowing this mans life was at stake. He quickly took the noose off the man and lowered his body to the floor. The apartment was in shambles with a mess of items all over the room. The man's engagement ring and a closed note laid near the body. Officer Smith check the man's vitals and found a faint pulse - a relief to everyone. He started CPR on the man while a distraught Emily called 911.

Law enforcement officials always recommend that when you’ve witnessed a crime, remember to get help. Surprisingly, many people don’t follow their instincts of calling 911 out of fear or panic. They’re afraid of getting involved or afraid of getting in trouble. However if someone’s health is in danger the professionals need to get involved. Call 911 immediately and let them know what’s going on. Give them all the information you can so they can help as soon as they can.

Officer Smith continued to apply CPR to the man until the Police and Emergency Response Team arrived. They quickly took the man to the local hospital and put him under critical condition.

Officer Smith was thanked many times for his support, quick actions, and response. “I’m so grateful for his service”, said a condominium employee.

Our thoughts

We give all our thanks to this security guard and his speedy reaction to such a shocking discovery. He stayed calm, followed the correct procedure, and assisted in keeping everyone safe and alive. We train our guards to excel in situations they might face on the job and are proud of what they accomplish onsite. We want Champion security guards to be synonymous with excellence and professionalism. Our goal is to have our security services change lives. Stories like these remind us that our guards do just that.

One thing to note is that while we are proud of our security guard and want this post to show that, it is important to note that suicide is a serious issue. It’s a major public health concern being the 10th leading cause of death in the US for all ages.

We aren’t here to downplay the seriousness of the problem or speak poorly about those who suffer from depression and deal with suicidal thoughts. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the man in the hospital recovering from the attempt.

Final thoughts

We speak highly of our security guard and his role in Champion. We also know the severity of such a difficult job. It can be stressful, dangerous, and underappreciated. We support his safety and mental well being during such a difficult time.

Discovering someone has attempted to end their life can be a devastating experience. There is typically an emotional response of shock or denial. It’s important to recognize that the experience can be very emotionally draining and stressful. Remember to look after yourself and get the support you need. Unfortunately there is still a stigma surrounding suicide. It may be difficult to talk about. This is not something you have to deal with alone. Remember your support system whether it’s friends, family, work, or a professional. They are there to help.

If you or someone you know needs help with suicidal thoughts, there are resources to help. The National Institute of Mental Health provides a toll free lifeline available 24/7 and all calls are confidential.

*Names have been changed to protect people's identities.