Automated External Defibrillators, or AED machines, save thousands of lives across the United States every year. When a person goes into cardiac arrest, one of the only ways to save them and to restore a normal heartbeat is by sending an AED pulse to the heart. Most first-response vehicles such as ambulances and some fire engines are equipped with these devices. However, in emergencies, first responders sometimes take 10 minutes or more to respond, leaving the sufferer at the mercy of bystanders. Because of this, it is important to know the basics of CPR.

Cardiac arrest is caused by a malfunction in the heart’s electrical system, which causes the heart to stop pumping blood. Every minute counts when someone suffers from cardiac arrest, so starting CPR immediately is imperative. According to the American Heart Association, if someone suddenly becomes unresponsive, tap their shoulder and shout to ask if they are okay. If they do not respond in any way, check to see if they are still breathing. If a person is only gasping, or if they have stopped breathing altogether, call 911 and begin CPR.

According to the American Heart Association, of the 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests that occurred in 2016, bystanders attempted CPR in less than half of those instances.

An article by the Health Career Institute points out that, “100,000 to 200,000 lives of adults and children could be saved each year if CPR were performed early enough.”

Performing CPR helps continue the circulation of blood throughout the body even after the heart has stopped beating. If blood flow can be maintained, then vital organs can potentially be saved from permanent damage, and the victim can be kept alive until emergency help arrives.

CPR training is inexpensive and easily accessible. Taking the time and effort to learn the basics of CPR could mean the difference between life and death for a loved family member or friend.