911 Operator Who Instructed Winnipeg Mail Carrier to Perform CPR Followed Protocols, City Says

A Winnipeg mail carrier’s quick response during a medical emergency has sparked important discussion around CPR training, responder safety, and emergency dispatch procedures.

According to a report by CBC News, Canada Post employee Corey Gallagher, 30, discovered an unconscious woman in the lobby of a Manitoba Housing building while delivering mail in Winnipeg’s south end. You can read the original CBC coverage of the incident here:
👉 911 operator who told Winnipeg mail carrier to give CPR followed rules, city says

Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Gallagher immediately called 911 for assistance.

Emergency Call and CPR Instructions

During the emergency call, Gallagher was connected to an emergency services worker who instructed him to begin CPR on the woman. Gallagher later said he felt conflicted after noticing a white powder on the woman’s clothing and fearing it could be fentanyl.

Despite raising concerns about a possible overdose and his own safety, he was advised to continue CPR until paramedics arrived. The incident highlights the difficult decisions bystanders may face when responding to sudden medical emergencies.

City Review Confirms Proper Procedure

Michelle Finley from the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Winnipeg confirmed that the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service reviewed the 911 call recording and determined the dispatcher followed established emergency protocols. The operator asked questions related to scene safety and access to protective equipment.

The city has not released information about the woman’s condition due to privacy considerations.

Support for Those Involved

City officials acknowledged that responding to medical emergencies can be emotionally distressing. Winnipeg plans to meet with Gallagher to discuss the incident and offer guidance on managing potential emotional after-effects following a traumatic response.

Canada Post and Union Safety Concerns

A spokesperson for Canada Post stated that employees are expected to contact emergency services if they encounter someone in distress. While Canada Post has procedures for handling suspicious mail items, Gallagher’s experience was unique because it involved both a medical emergency and potential drug exposure.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers has since raised concerns about fentanyl exposure and is discussing improved safety measures with Canada Post, including clearer protocols and training.

Why CPR Training Matters

Experts emphasize that if rescue breathing feels unsafe, hands-only CPR with chest compressions is still effective and strongly encouraged. Proper training helps bystanders act confidently while reducing personal risk.

Many Winnipeg residents choose CPR and AED training through Winnipeg First Aid to prepare for real-life emergencies like this one.

Learn More: Be Ready to Act in an Emergency

Medical emergencies can happen anywhere—at work, at home, or in public places. Knowing CPR and first aid gives you the confidence to act quickly and safely when every second counts.

Winnipeg First Aid offers hands-on CPR and AED training designed for real-life situations, including cardiac arrest and overdose emergencies.

What you’ll learn:

Hands-only CPR and rescue breathing
AED use and emergency response steps
How to protect yourself while helping others
Confidence to act until paramedics arrive

👉 Explore CPR & AED training options: https://firstaidwinnipeg.ca/cpr-courses/

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

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Last reviewed: March 2026

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