American Heart Association’s (heart.org/nation) Nation of Lifesavers initiative reminds us: “You are the first responder until help arrives.”
More than 350,000 out of hospital cardiac arrests occur in the U.S. each year. This February, the American Heart Association is urging Nebraskans to step in as first responders until professional help arrives.
Nine out of 10 people who experience cardiac arrest outside a hospital do not survive, often because they don’t receive CPR quickly enough. The Association’s Nation of Lifesavers initiative aims to change that by
empowering communities to act.
Here are three ways Nebraskans can take charge of their health
this Heart Month:
- Learn CPR and join the Nation of Lifesavers™: In communities across Nebraska, families can take online or in person CPR courses, watch a 90 second Hands Only CPR video, or learn CPR with breaths for infants and children. Visit heart.org/nation for CPR resources and updated guidelines.
- Make a plan: A cardiac emergency response plan (CERP) outlines clear steps to take during a cardiac arrest—at school, work, church, or sporting events. Free planning tools are available at heart.org/cerp.
- Get local: Visit heart.org/Nebraska to attend local events, take a CPR class, or help your workplace or school build an emergency plan. Strong communities start with preparedness.
Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere—from a Husker game to the grocery store. Immediate CPR can double or triple survival. The Nation of Lifesavers initiative aims to ensure anyone, anywhere is ready to act.
To learn more or get involved, visit heart.org/nation.