The American Red Cross wants you to know that cardiac arrest is fatal if not treated within minutes, but rapid treatment can increase a person’s chances of survival.
Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating or beats too ineffectively to circulate blood to the brain and other vital organs. The signs of cardiac arrest include the person being unresponsive, even if you shake or shout at them, or if the person isn’t breathing or is only gasping. If you see someone collapse without warning, know your ‘Cardiac Arrest 1-2-3.’
Call 911.
Start CPR.
Use an AED.
GET TRAINED A variety of online, blended (online content with in-class skills session) and instructor-led training offerings are available. Red Cross training and certification meets the requirements of those that need to respond in the workplace, professional rescuers, healthcare providers as well as the public. Several of the Red Cross courses meet workplace compliance requirements including OSHA requirements. Check with your employer to determine what classes are required to fulfill a specific job requirement.
If you are with a business or organization, the Red Cross can provide what you need to get your employees trained. In addition, the Red Cross can help you or your organization by facilitating the purchase of an automated external defibrillator (AED), AED accessories, and AED service and maintenance plans.
RESOURCES Download the free Red Cross First Aid app and enable the Red Cross First Aid skill for Alexa-enabled devices which provide users with instant access to information on sudden cardiac arrest, performing CPR, heart attacks and other emergencies.
Get trained today to be ready for the moments that matter — it can be the difference between life and death.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Take a class and be ready to respond if an emergency strikes.