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Scotland’s men’s Rugby squad have been busy learning CPR and you can learn too!

In collaboration with the Scottish Ambulance Service and Save a Life for Scotland, the men’s Scottish rugby team recently took some time out of their training to learn a lifesaving skill – cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The session was led by Scottish Rugby’s chief medical officer and team doctor Dr James Robson. Dr Robson demonstrated key steps to help save a life if you come across someone who is unconscious and not breathing, and encouraged the national men’s squad to have a go themselves.

Scottish Rugby has been planning CPR training sessions for the squad for a while and recent events have highlighted the importance of learning CPR with Danish football player Christian Eriksen suffering a cardiac arrest during the Euros. Just one day later, twenty year old Hamish Bell had a cardiac arrest whilst at rugby training with Blairgowrie RFC.

There are many similarities between Bell and Eriksen – both were young and fit sportsmen who suffered a cardiac arrest. They were both also saved by the quick action of their teammates, sports staff and medical team – recognition of a cardiac arrest, CPR and use of a defibrillator.

The experiences of Bell and Eriksen have been an important reminder that cardiac arrests can happen to anyone at any time, but we all have the power to help save a life.

Learn how to save a life alongside the Scottish Rugby team! Grab a pillow to practice your CPR skills, your friends or family and learn together by watching the video below.

You can also find more resources to help you learn CPR on our website here.

Get in touch with us at hello@savealife.scot to get a free bag which can help you learn CPR, and spread awareness wherever you go.