In the time it takes you to brush your teeth, you could learn how to save a life. Preparation is important, especially considering the fact that 70 percent of all out-of-hospital cardiac arrests take place at home. June first through the seventh is recognized as National CPR week. The American Heart Association is using these seven days to reiterate the importance of knowing CPR and raise awareness about hands-only CPR. With funding from the Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield foundation, the American Heart Association released a music-based training video displaying the simplicity of the steps required for hands-only CPR. If you witness a teen or adult collapse step one is to immediately call 911. Step two is to push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the rate of at least 100 beats per minute. That may sound like a lot but it just so happens to sync up to the beat of the classic Bee Gees’ song “Stayin’ Alive.” If performed immediately hands-only CPR can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival. Accidents happen all the time, be prepared to assist those in danger with stayin’ alive.
