Every year, thousands of people die from sudden cardiac arrest. Many of these deaths are preventable if bystanders know how to perform CPR and use an AED. World Restart a Heart Day, observed annually in October, raises awareness about the importance of these life-saving skills.
Why World Restart a Heart Day Matters
Most cardiac arrests happen at home, meaning family members and friends are often the first responders. Knowing what to do in those critical first minutes can mean the difference between life and death.
Life-Saving Statistics
- 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen each year in the UK where resuscitation is attempted
- 70–80% of cardiac arrests happen at home
- 69% of cases have bystander CPR initiated
- Only 7.8% of patients survive to 30 days after out-of-hospital cardiac arrests
- Early CPR and AED use can achieve 50-70% survival when defibrillation occurs within 3-5 minutes
CPR: The Life-Saving Basics
- Shout for help and assess responsiveness
- Check for normal breathing
- Call 999
- Perform chest compressions at twice per second (100-120 per minute)
- Locate an AED
- Use the defibrillator following voice instructions
- Continue CPR until professional help arrives
AED Use Importance
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) deliver electrical shocks to restart hearts. They're designed for use by untrained bystanders, provide step-by-step voice guidance, and effectiveness increases dramatically when applied quickly.
Preparedness Tips
- Learn CPR through a training course
- Identify the nearest AED locations in your area
- Practice emergency response plans
- Encourage broader community training
Anyone can restart a heart without medical training. Every second and every compression matters.
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