Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Oct. 14, 2025) — With World Restart a Heart Day approaching on Thursday, Oct. 16, the American Red Cross of Utah is calling on Utahns to learn lifesaving CPR and AED skills. With more than 350,000 Americans experiencing cardiac arrest each year, knowing how to respond in an emergency can mean the difference between life and death.
World Restart a Heart Day falls during National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the importance of immediate action during cardiac emergencies. Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, affecting people of all ages, even those who appear healthy. Without immediate intervention, SCA can be fatal within minutes. Survival rates significantly improve when bystanders act quickly by calling 911, performing CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
The Red Cross emphasizes that every minute counts when the heart stops. “Three out of four cardiac arrests happen at home or work,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter. “That means the person who needs help could be your parent, your child or your best friend. Learning CPR or Hands-Only CPR is simple, and it empowers you to act confidently when every second counts.”
Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest vs. Heart Attack
It’s important to know the distinction. A heart attack occurs when a blockage interrupts blood flow to the heart, while SCA happens when the heart suddenly stops due to electrical or structural issues. Both are emergencies, but SCA requires immediate action to restart the heart.
Get Certified Red Cross Training Today
The Red Cross offers certified training in CPR, Hands-Only CPR (chest compressions without rescue breathing) and AED use. These courses are available in-person, online or through hybrid formats, making it easy to fit lifesaving skills into your schedule. For more information, visit redcross.com/take-a-class.
Additionally, the Red Cross of Utah provides free Hands-Only CPR training for schools, businesses, community groups and religious organizations. To request a presentation, visit rdcrss.org/3KdoALo. “CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest,” said Donner. “Maintaining blood flow, even partially, extends the window for successful resuscitation once medical professionals arrive.”
Download the Free Red Cross First Aid App
The Red Cross First Aid app provides instant access to information on handling common first aid emergencies, including CPR and AED usage. Available in both English and Spanish, the app is compatible with Apple Watch and Android wearable devices. Download it by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores or visiting redcross.org/apps.
October: A Month to Raise Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness
In 2008, the U.S. Congress designated October as National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month to educate the public about warning signs and risk factors of cardiac emergencies. Since 2018, World Restart a Heart Day has been observed annually on Oct. 16 to encourage learning CPR and AED skills.
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.
