© Black Forest Fire/Rescue
Contact the Webmasters
Chest discomfort. Heart attacks often create discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. Some people feel “crushing” pain. But heart attacks can also feel like uncomfortable pressure, heaviness, squeezing, or fullness. Some women feel no chest discomfort at all.
Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. You may have pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
Shortness of breath. This feeling often comes along with chest discomfort. But it can occur before the chest discomfort.
Sudden “sick” feeling. You may break out in a cold sweat, feel nauseated or lightheaded. You may feel suddenly weak, as if you’ve suddenly lost all your energy.
Denial. If your friend or loved one feels this way, but is certain that it can’t be serious, you should suspect a heart attack.
Call 9-1-1! Don't take no for an answer!
A heart attack needs fast treatment. Every minute without care causes permanent damage to the heart.
There are ways for doctors to stop the damage of a heart attack. But this care must start soon - within a few hours after you notice something is wrong.
Do not drive yourself to the hospital. Do not have a friend drive you. An ambulance crew can start treatment immediately. And if you are having a heart attack, it is not safe for you to drive.
Do not come to the fire station, because we may be out on another emergency. If we are out, the 9-1-1 dispatcher will send the next closest ambulance.
Do not wait to see if you feel better. Heart attack symptoms often come and go. But you need treatment now!
Do not worry about inconveniencing your family. Imagine how inconvenient it will be if you die suddenly because you didn’t want to cause a fuss.
We'll be glad to visit your organization to give a free presentation on heart attack signs and prevention. Learn more about it