Triad, The Right Information and Direction, held its monthly meeting in the Lehigh County Senior Center, 1633 Elm St., Allentown, March 11.

Allentown Police Chief Bill Reinick opened the meeting with a status report on the implementation of Project Lifesaver, a Triad-supported program aimed at locating ill or disabled people who become lost due to wandering. Although not yet fully operational, Project Lifesaver is moving forward.

A hands only cardiopulmonary resuscitation course facilitated by Lower Milford Police Chief John Dondero and Medivac flight nurse Gail Hunsberger provided the main focus of the meeting. This program concentrates on rudimentary lifesaving skills minus mouth-to-mouth breathing. The class does not result in CPR certification.

With the aid of adult and child resuscitation mannequins and an Automatic External Defibrillator, Dondero and Hunsberger walked Triad members through the steps of medical assistance appropriate for an unresponsive person until professional help arrives.

Hunsberger stressed the importance of knowing how to perform chest compressions which keep blood circulating. Dondero and Hunsberger instructed Triad attendees on proper CPR method and timing. Hunsberger added, ironically, performing compressions in time to the BeeGee's song "Staying Alive" provides the correct rhythm. Participants also learned how to employ an AED. Most places frequented by the public provide clearly marked, wall mounted AED kits.

AED's are considered "dummy proof." According to Hunsberger, "It will guide you as to what to do and when."

Once AED pads are attached, the unit analyzes the patient's condition and determines if defibrillation (sending electricity across the heart) is required. The machine then clearly and simply explains the procedure.

Between explanations, instructions, demonstrations and practice, Dondero and Hunsberger fielded questions. Participants learned not only how to perform CPR but also why CPR is vital until professional help arrives. Triad members were also given "Family & Friends CPR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation," a pamphlet published by the American Heart Association which reviews CPR procedures. Hunsberger emphasized "CPR does work: defibrillating does work" and knowing the process could save a life.

Triad meets every second Tuesday of the month. All senior citizens are invited to attend. Programs center around concerns pertinent to seniors and ways in which they may actively serve the community. The next meeting will convene at the Lehigh County Senior Center 4 p.m. April 8. April's presentation will be announced prior to the meeting.