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DiskDoktr, your post is spot on.

As a retired firefighter/EMT, i've seen the same thing when off duty.
I've rescued 3 people from drowning, while people stood around just watching.

Part is that a lot of the public just freeze in emergency situations. Others are afraid of taking a leadership role.
Others don't have the training to feel confident to act.

I agree that taking CPR/1st Aid classes should be taken.
CPR has changed a lot since it is now compressions only, taking out the mouth to mouth respirations that many were fearful of.