Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (June 1, 2023) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is recognizing the 16th anniversary of National CPR and AED Awareness Week, June 1-7, by encouraging Nevadans to have at least one person in their homes trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or Hands-Only CPR (chest compressions without rescue breathing), as well as automated external defibrillators (AEDs), to get the heart started again. These types of training can save lives during cardiac emergencies.
“When performed properly, CPR helps maintain blood flow and oxygenation to vital organs until professional help arrives,” explained Dr. Walter Kelley, Medical Director for the Pacific, Rocky Mountain and Southwest Divisions of the American Red Cross. "Every minute that passes without intervention decreases the likelihood of survival,” Dr. Kelley said. “That's why it's crucial for as many people as possible to learn CPR – any one of us could be in a position to save a life if we have the right skills."
The Red Cross wants everyone to know three out of four cardiac arrests occur at home or at work, and minutes count when the heart stops. “We could all be in the position to save someone we know or love using CPR,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “That’s why we want everyone to learn CPR and be ready to act quickly, with confidence and knowledge, in an emergency.”
Get the Red Cross training you need
Choose from a variety of certified training classes in person, online, or hybrid, including traditional CPR and Hands-Only CPR. The Red Cross also offers certification in AED, which helps prevent not only death, but also brain damage. Learn more at redcross.com/take-a-class.
The Red Cross comes to schools, businesses, community groups, and religious organizations to teach Hands-Only CPR at no cost. Learn more and request a presentation at rdcrss.org/3KdoALo. “CPR can double or triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest,” Dr. Kelley said. “And keeping blood flow active – even partially – extends the opportunity for a successful resuscitation once trained medical staff arrive on site.”
Download the free Red Cross First Aid app
Get instant access to information on handling the most common first aid emergencies, including how to perform CPR and use an AED, in English and Spanish. Red Cross apps are compatible with Apple Watch and Android wearable devices. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps.
National CPR and AED Awareness Week history
On Dec. 13, 2007, with support from the American Red Cross and partner organizations, the U.S. Congress unanimously passed a resolution to set aside June 1-7 as National CPR and AED Awareness Week. The goal is to educate the public about lives that can be saved if more people are trained in CPR and AED use. The week also stresses the importance of bystanders being willing to put knowledge into action in a cardiac emergency.
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
