Bystanders administered CPR and used a public access defibrillator to restart the man's heart

OTTAWA -- Quick-thinking bystanders who knew CPR and a public access defibrillator are being credited with helping to save the life of a man who collapsed on the ice in Kanata, last night.

The 44-year-old man's heart suddenly stopped while he was on the ice at the Bell Sensplex, around 7:45 p.m.

Bystanders who saw the man had collapsed began administering CPR and used the arena's public access defibrillator to deliver a shock to the man's heart, restarting it. The man regained consciousness, and was alert and speaking with paramedics.

The Ottawa Paramedic Service says if it weren't for CPR and the use of the public access defibrillator, the man may not have survived.

More than 750 Automated External Defibrillators have been installed within Ottawa, including all police and fire vehicles, most recreational facilities, community centres and libraries.