The Life-Saving Skill Ever Tri-State Resident Should Know

Most of us hope we never have to witness a cardiac emergency.

The reality is that cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, at any time, and often without warning. When it does, the actions taken in the first few minutes can make all the difference.

That's the message the Evansville Fire Department is sharing during CPR and AED Awareness Week, encouraging residents to learn or refresh their knowledge of Hands-Only CPR.

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My CPR Matters

According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR can double or even triple a person's chance of survival after cardiac arrest.

The challenge is that emergency responders can't always arrive instantly. In many cases, a family member, friend, coworker, or even a stranger may be the first person on the scene.

That means the person most likely to save a life may not be a firefighter, paramedic, or doctor. It could be an everyday bystander willing to step in and help.

What is Hands-Only CPR

Hands-Only CPR is designed to be simple enough for anyone to perform in an emergency.

If a person suddenly collapses and is unresponsive, the American Heart Association recommends calling 911 and beginning hard, fast chest compressions in the center of the chest until professional help arrives.

The technique helps keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs during a cardiac emergency.

The Evansville Fire Department recently shared an instructional video demonstrating Hands-Only CPR on an adult female patient and encouraged residents to explore additional training resources available through the American Heart Association.

A Few Minutes of Learning Could Save a Life

Many people assume CPR training is only for healthcare workers or first responders, but experts say anyone can learn the basics.

Taking a few minutes to watch a CPR tutorial, attend a training class, or refresh skills learned years ago could prepare you to act when every second counts.

The Evansville Fire Department is encouraging residents to use CPR and AED Awareness Week as a reminder to learn, practice, and share this potentially life-saving skill with family and friends.