Staff at Oceanside Place in Parksville were quick to act after a player collapsed on ice during a March 11 drop-in hockey game. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

quick action

Parksville arena workers praised after reviving hockey player using AED

Mar 25, 2025 | 12:50 PM

PARKSVILLE — Arena staff are being hailed for their life-saving actions earlier this month.

On March 11, an individual playing in a drop-in hockey game at Oceanside Place collapsed from an apparent cardiac event.

Tom Osborne, RDN general manager of recreation and parks, said staff at the site were alerted to the situation quickly by the players involved and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) stationed nearby.

“These are not first aid attendants, these are maintenance workers, front office reception staff, clerical staff and some of our exempt team as well. They all played different roles on the scene, everything from implementing the AED to ensuring the ambulance was called and [making sure] people were in a calm, safe place.”

The individual was revived and taken to the hospital in Nanaimo, then eventually Victoria, for further care.

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Osborne said the staff involved acted in the best way possible.

One AED was installed when Oceanside Place opened in 2003, however a second one was added shortly after so a device was present in each rink.

A third device was installed in the lobby in 2016.

Osborne said the event earlier this month marked the sixth time they’ve been used.

“You always hope for a successful outcome where you give people a fighting chance in our recreation and community centres. I’m very proud of our staff that we have working for us.”

First aid training is part of the regular skill development undertaken by arena workers.

Canadian Red Cross first aid certification is valid for 3 years.

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