You Have the Ability to Save a Life

More than 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur annually in the U.S.

Seven out of 10 of them happen in front of bystanders, but less than 20% of bystanders end up providing first aid. As a result, nearly 90% of these events prove fatal.

While there is nothing you can do to save those we have lost, there is something you can do to save others in the future: learn CPR.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), if performed immediately, CPR can double or triple the chance of survival from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Celebrated on October 16^th across the globe, World Restart a Heart Day aims to raise awareness and support programs that give everyday people—that’s you—the power to save a life.

The good news is that CPR is very easy to learn and perform. The AHA encourages members of the public to learn the Hands-Only CPR which involves chest compression but no mouth-to-mouth contact.

Chest compressions are performed by using two hands to push hard and fast on a person’s chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. The pushing motion keeps blood flowing through the heart and extends the opportunity for a successful resuscitation once trained medical staff arrive on site.

To help people maintain the appropriate rhythm and perform CPR correctly, the AHA developed a playlist to achieve the right rhythm when performing compressions.

The National CPR Foundation notes there are two key considerations to make before attempting CPR on someone:

1. Make sure you and the patient aren’t in any danger. If possible, resolve the risk or move the patient out of harm’s way. If you are unable to do so for whatever reason, immediately call 911.

2. Check the patient to determine if they are conscious or not. Do not check for a pulse because time is of the essence and finding a pulse can take too long. Instead, call out to the patient asking, “Are you okay?” Repeat if necessary. If the patient does not respond, immediately call 911 or have someone nearby call, then perform CPR immediately.

The American Red Cross offers CPR training both online and in-person. Click here to learn what options exists in your area. Or reach out to your local rescue squad to learn about upcoming training opportunities in your community.