Quick-Thinking Car Dealership Staff Save Co-Worker with AED
Fast action, teamwork, and access to an automated external defibrillator (AED) helped save a man’s life at a Saskatoon car dealership.
According to a report by CBC News, a 65-year-old employee at Wheaton GMC Buick Cadillac survived sudden cardiac arrest thanks to the immediate response of his co-workers and the availability of an AED on site. The full original story can be read on CBC’s website here:
Quick-thinking car dealership staff save co-worker with AED
Cardiac Arrest at Work
On March 31, Ted Brown collapsed while at work and went into cardiac arrest. His co-workers quickly recognized the emergency, called 911, and immediately began CPR while another employee retrieved the dealership’s AED.
Although none of the employees had hands-on experience using a defibrillator, they followed the AED’s clear voice prompts and applied the pads without hesitation.
“I had no experience with a defibrillator, and there was another employee who knew about it but had never used one,” said Myron Knihnitski. “But I said, ‘We’ve nothing to lose — let’s put the pads down and start.
Preparedness Saved a Life
Emergency responders arrived shortly after and rushed Brown to hospital in serious condition. He has since made a full recovery.
Brown’s wife, Brenda, credited the quick-thinking staff and the presence of the AED for saving her husband’s life.
“I’m just so thankful,” she said. “To anyone who doesn’t have an AED — get one. And if you do have one, know where it is and how to use it.”
Why CPR and AED Training Matters
Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere — including the workplace. Early CPR and rapid AED use dramatically increase survival chances, even when responders have no medical background.
Learning CPR and AED skills through a recognized provider such as Winnipeg First Aid’s CPR and AED courses helps everyday people respond confidently when seconds matter most.
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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