Heart Month: Learn to Help Until Help Arrives

Every second counts when someone is having a cardiac emergency. During National Heart Month, the American Red Cross is urging everyone to learn CPR and how to use an AED.

Last year, a customer collapsed in a convenience store parking lot in Bellingham, Massachusetts. Kevin Barcelos, the assistant store manager, jumped into action. He immediately called 911 and retrieved the AED. Kevin placed the man on his back, checked him over and placed the AED pads on him. No shock was advised from the device, so Kevin began CPR. He continued until a police officer and EMS arrived and transported the man to the hospital. For stepping up and using the skills he learned in his Red Cross training, Kevin earned the Red Cross Certificate of Merit.

HEART ATTACKS happen when the blood supply to part of the heart muscle is blocked. The cells in the affected area become damaged and can die, causing the heart to not pump normally, and if untreated, stop pumping blood.

SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating because of abnormal electrical activity. Knowing what to do is especially important because 70% of all cardiac arrests happen in the home, so the life you may save could be a family member or a friend.

CPR is necessary if someone collapses and is not breathing or only gasping. They’ll be unresponsive and won’t have a pulse. CPR, performing cycles of chest compressions and rescue breaths, is the best option to use for infants, children and drowning victims. Hands-only CPR is giving chest compressions without any mouth-to-mouth contact.

AED is short for automated external defibrillator. It’s a device that analyzes the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, advises the rescuer to deliver an electrical shock. That shock helps the heart re-establish an effective rhythm. AEDs are easy to use. You turn on the device and follow the voice prompts. An AED will never shock someone who doesn’t need it. The Red Cross can help you or your organization purchase an AED that meets your needs and fits your budget.

TRAINING can give you the knowledge and skills to act in an emergency. In-person and online courses are available. Instructors provide individual feedback during in-person training sessions and use “peer-to-peer learning.” Everyone who is in a class is divided into teams and takes turns playing the role of coach, observer and lifesaver. It’s a proven way to actively learn and retain what you’ve learned.

Download the free Red Cross First Aid app and activate the Red Cross First Aid skill for instant access to information on handling the most common first aid emergencies including how to perform CPR and use an AED.

Knowing what to do in the moments that matter can save someone’s life.