American Heart Association stresses CPR training’s value

This week marks National CPR and AED Awareness Week, and the American Heart Association is highlighting the critical importance of learning CPR and how easy it can be with just a little training.

Christopher Calloway from the American Heart Association gave 8 News Now a hands-on crash course in how to respond during a cardiac emergency.

Christopher emphasized one powerful takeaway: you don’t have to be a medical professional to save a life.

Roughly 70 percent of cardiac arrests happen at home, meaning you’re most likely to perform CPR on someone you love.

Immediate action matters! Brain damage can begin within 4–6 minutes of cardiac arrest. After 10 minutes without CPR, survival is unlikely.

Mouth-to-mouth is no longer required! The American Heart Association recommends hands-only CPR for untrained bystanders, it’s all about chest compressions.

Christopher explained some key steps to follow in a cardiac emergency: Call 911 immediately and make sure the person is on a hard, flat surface. Clear the area. Check for breathing and then begin hard and fast chest compressions in the center of the chest. Christopher said about 100–120 per minute (the beat of “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees is a good rhythm).

Christopher also explained the importance of AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators). These are portable devices found in most public places and offices that help restart the heart. The key, he said, is knowing where they are ahead of time, just like knowing the location of a fire extinguisher or emergency exit.

Before this morning, Good Day Las Vegas reporter JC admitted he had never performed CPR. But after a few quick lessons, he said he felt confident and empowered to step in if needed. For more information or to learn how to get certified in CPR, visit the American Heart Association’s website.