Officers of the Tampa Police Department are adding a new gadget to their belts, one that could spell the difference between life and death in choking emergencies. The department received a donation of 300 LifeVac devices, a gift from Arthur Lih, who not only founded the company but also invented the airway clearance device. Revealed by the City of Tampa's official website, these devices are designed to aid officers in providing immediate, non-invasive aid to individuals struggling to breathe due to an obstruction.
LifeVac devices create suction to remove objects blocking a person’s airway, providing an alternative when traditional Heimlich maneuvers may not be effective or safe. The devices were developed by Arthur Lih to help improve public safety by addressing choking emergencies. With the recent donation, Tampa police officers will be equipped with LifeVac devices to provide quick assistance in choking situations.
Training for the Tampa Police Department on the proper use of LifeVac's is already underway, ensuring that officers are prepared to use this new tool the moment it's needed. According to a statement obtained by the Tampa Police Department, once officers are trained, each patrol vehicle will be equipped with a LifeVac device. This strategy ensures that no matter where an emergency occurs, a LifeVac and a trained officer should be within reach.
