Stay on the Line 911 Dispatcher Helps Teacher Save a Student’s Life

A calm voice on the phone and immediate action on the ground helped save the life of a student who collapsed during recess at a British Columbia elementary school.

Teacher Wendy Swain was supervising her students on a warm spring day when one child suddenly fell to the ground. Rushing over, she immediately realized the situation was serious and called 911.

On the other end of the line was BC Ambulance Service dispatcher Colin Terry, a former paramedic. Even before fully understanding what had happened, Terry sensed the urgency in Swain’s voice and stayed on the line to guide her through what to do next.

Guided CPR Makes the Difference

The student—whose identity and school were not released for privacy reasons—had gone into sudden cardiac arrest. Due to a poor cellphone connection, Terry asked Swain to repeat her answers twice to ensure clear communication.

Terry calmly coached Swain through proper chest compressions, counting out loud with her as she performed CPR. For nearly ten minutes, he encouraged her to continue until paramedics arrived.

Swain later estimated she performed around 600 chest compressions, actions that played a critical role in keeping the child alive. The student survived and made a full recovery.

Why CPR and AED Training Matters

Although the outcome was positive, Swain believes the student could have been revived even sooner if an automated external defibrillator (AED) had been available at the school.

AEDs are portable devices designed to detect life-threatening heart rhythms and deliver a shock to restore a normal heartbeat. When CPR and AED use are combined early, survival rates from cardiac arrest increase significantly.

This real life emergency highlights why learning these skills is so important. Training programs—such as CPR and AED courses offered by Winnipeg First Aid—prepare everyday people to respond confidently when seconds matter.

A Reminder to Be Prepared

Cardiac emergencies can happen anywhere—schools, workplaces, or public spaces. This incident shows how CPR knowledge, quick action, and calm guidance can save a life even before emergency responders arrive.

You can read the original CBC News story here: 👉 Stay on the line 911 dispatcher helps teacher save student’s life

Being trained means being ready. CPR and AED education empowers individuals to act decisively and help save lives when it matters 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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