During major disasters, EMS response times can exceed 30 minutes. CPR keeps blood flowing until professional help arrives.
Before You Start
- Check responsiveness — tap shoulders, shout "Are you OK?"
- Call 911 (or direct someone to call)
- Check breathing — if not breathing normally, start CPR
- Send someone for an AED if available
Hands-Only CPR Steps
- Place heel of hand on center of chest (between nipples)
- Place other hand on top, interlock fingers
- Push hard and fast — 2 inches deep
- Rate: 100–120 compressions per minute (think "Stayin' Alive" beat)
- Don't stop until EMS arrives or an AED is ready
Using an AED
- Turn on AED and follow voice prompts
- Attach pads to bare chest as shown on diagrams
- Stand clear during shock analysis and delivery
- Resume CPR immediately after shock
Include in Your First Aid Kit
- Trauma gloves
- CPR face shield (if trained in rescue breaths)
- First aid manual or QR card
Take a class: Red Cross CPR training — many courses are 2–3 hours online + in-person.
Bottom Line
You don't need perfect technique — compressions save lives. Pair training with a stocked first aid kit in every home and vehicle.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- When should I start CPR?
- Start immediately if someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally. Call 911 first or ask a bystander to call while you begin compressions.
- What is hands-only CPR?
- Continuous chest compressions at 100–120 per minute, 2 inches deep, without rescue breaths. Recommended for untrained bystanders.
- Do I need certification?
- Certification from Red Cross or AHA is ideal, but hands-only CPR is still better than doing nothing during cardiac arrest.