National CPR and AED Awareness Week emphasizes importance of acting fast in emergencies

It’s National CPR and AED Awareness Week, putting the spotlight on the importance of knowing what do in case of emergency. CPR is life-saving, and more lives could be saved if more Americans know CPR and how to use an AED.

According to the American Heart Association, about 90% of people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of the hospital die. CPR — especially if performed immediately — can double or triple a victim’s chance of surviving. But only about 40% of people who have cardiac events outside of the hospital get the immediate help they need before professionals arrive.

This week is about making sure more people know what to do when they see someone who needs help.

Congress unanimously passed a resolution in 2007 to set aside June 1-7 each year as National CPR and AED Awareness Week.