St. Louis, Wednesday, April 30, 2008 - The Red Cross strongly urges the public not to imitate or initiate any part of Magician David Blaine’s dangerous attempt to break the Guinness World Record for underwater breath-holding. Mr. Blaine is scheduled to appear on the "Oprah Winfrey Show" today to break the world record by holding his breath for over 16 minutes and 14 seconds while submerged in an aquarium filled with more than 2,500 gallons of water.

 

The practice of voluntarily hyperventilating (extremely rapid or deep breathing) followed by holding one’s breath and then swimming underwater or holding one’s breath for extended periods of time is dangerous. When the brain has a lack of oxygen, it can take only minutes for brain damage or death to occur.

 

 

The Red Cross encourages the public to be informed and get trained in First Aid and CPR. CPR is vital to getting oxygen to the brain once the heart stops beating. After calling 911 for help, minutes may pass before paramedics are able to arrive. Administering CPR during this critical time can make the difference between life or death-or quality of life. Anyone can learn CPR. It only takes a few hours and could mean a lifetime to the person you save.

 

"The Red Cross strongly urges that people, do not try to duplicate any part of Blaine’s attempt. We also urge all aquatic facility staff to educate their patrons about the dangers of hyperventilation and extended breath-holding and take steps to prohibit them at their facilities," said Joyce Bathke, executive officer of health and safety services. "Time is critical in life-threatening emergencies and you never know when or where you might need First Aid and CPR to save your life or have to use your training to save the life of another."

 

 

About the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter
Founded in 1917, the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter celebrates 91 years of dedicated service, providing emergency relief and preparedness training more than 446,600 times each year. The Red Cross is a charity, not a government agency and depends on the efforts of thousands of volunteers and donors to provide a wide range of community support services, including disaster relief, first aid and CPR training, water safety, services to military personnel and support for blood services. The Chapter, a United Way agency, provides programs and services to St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County and Jefferson County in Missouri, as well as Monroe, St. Clair (including Scott Air Force Base) and part of Madison County in Illinois. All disaster relief services are provided free of charge thanks to the generosity of the American people. To learn more about Red Cross programs, volunteer opportunities, and how you can help, contact the St. Louis Area Chapter at 314.516.2800 or www.redcrossstl.org.