CPR/AED Awareness Week: Every Second Counts

June 1-7 is National CPR and AED Awareness Week. The American Red Cross, along with other National Cardiac Arrest Collaborative members, is stressing that every second counts in cardiac arrest and people can save lives by knowing how to perform CPR and use an AED.

If someone goes into sudden cardiac arrest, their heart suddenly stops beating, stopping blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. More than 1,600 people suffer cardiac arrest every day in the United States, so if you see someone collapse without warning, know your ‘Cardiac Arrest 1-2-3.’

Call 9-1-1.

Start CPR.

Use an AED.

Get trained. A variety of online, blended (online content with in-class skills session) and instructor-led classroom training offerings are available. Red Cross training and certification meets the needs of workplace responders, professional rescuers, school staff and healthcare providers as well as the public. Several courses are OSHA compliant. Check with your employer as to what class you need if you are taking training to fulfill a job requirement.

You'll find additional information and can enter your zip code to find training in your area by going to the CPR and AED training section of our website, or if you are a business or organization, you can get your employees trained in CPR and AED. The Red Cross can help you or your organization with facilitating the purchase of an AED, accessories, and service and maintenance plans.

The free Red Cross First Aid App provides users with instant access to information on sudden cardiac arrest, performing CPR and other emergencies. #CPRsaveslives.