There is a very good chance that you know someone with heart disease. It is also quite likely that you will personally witness a heart attack in your lifetime. Scientific research has shown that without Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), a person with a severe heart attack has little chance of survival. The same studies show that if you perform CPR until a properly equipped team from the Los Angeles Fire Department (or your local Emergency Medical Service) arrives, that person's chance of survival can increase immensely! While CPR is only indicated in the most severe type of heart attack, there can be a tremendous payoff in learning this life-saving procedure.
Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation is a simple skill that is easily learned in a one session class sponsored by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. In CPR, mouth-to-mouth breathing and rhythmic chest compressions are used to supply oxygen to the brain and other vital organs of a person whose heart has stopped pumping. This can buy the precious time necessary for provision of Advanced Life Support measures by highly skilled LAFD Paramedics. Worldwide, CPR from bystanders is credited with making the difference between life and death.
The sooner CPR is started, the greater the chances for survival. Unfortunately, many people who have been trained in CPR are reluctant to administer it for fear of doing it wrong. It is important to remember that when indicated: Good CPR is better than bad CPR, but even bad CPR is a million times -better- than no CPR at all!
Recognizing the importance of rapid bystander intervention, the Los Angeles Fire Department has created a community outreach program: Heart Attack Rescue Training (HART). This popular program is focused on teaching young adults what to do for heart attack and choking victims, and is presently being implemented in High Schools citywide. HART is also offered as an adjunct to our renowned Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training program for community groups and businesses.
Many people express a concern about the risk of HIV / AIDS and other infectious diseases when performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. This is an understandable concern which has to be weighed in each case individually. Most layperson CPR however, is performed on a close friend or loved one. The background health history and risk factors will usually be known to the rescuer. Abolishing myths and minimizing any actual or perceived risks associated with CPR is a core element in most training classes.
CPR can not only be used when heart attacks strike, but may save victims of drowning, electrocution, suffocation and drug overdose. CPR not only saves lives, but provides peace of mind during and after an emergency. People often feel helpless when they witness a heart attack, but with CPR training, you will know exactly what to do. Regardless of the outcome, you will know that every possible measure had been taken to assist the person in need. You will likely find this reassuring during what may be an otherwise difficult time.
It's simple to learn more about American Red Cross CPR and First Aid Training. The cost is minimal, and most training can be completed in a single session!
Los Angeles residents can easily register for CPR, First Aid and Safety classes offered by the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Red Cross at their many Training Sites located throughout our community.
Those who live outside of Los Angeles can readily find their local American Red Cross Chapter or American Heart Association Affiliate by clicking on one of the logos below...
