At approximately 1820 hours, New Bedford Fire Company Engine 6 responded to Rivet Street for a report of a man choking.
Engine 6 arrived first and found the patient actively choking. Firefighters immediately began the Heimlich maneuver in an effort to clear the airway. The situation quickly became critical when the patient turned gray and stopped breathing. Crews immediately began CPR while continuing efforts to remove the obstruction.
When medics arrived, they quickly moved the patient into the ambulance. Paramedics used a flashlight and long forceps to locate and remove a large piece of cantaloupe that was completely obstructing the patient’s airway.
Within seconds of the obstruction being removed, the patient regained consciousness. Thankfully, he survived.
This was an outstanding example of teamwork, training, and decisive action between firefighters and paramedics. Everyone involved worked quickly and effectively under extremely critical circumstances, ultimately making a life-saving difference.
Great job by Engine 6 and the entire EMS team! 🚒❤️
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