'Hands-only CPR' and the 'AED': What are they?

They are what to do until professional help arrives. By allowing us to explain, you can help kick-off National CPR Week.

Did you know? Every uniformed member of the Los Angeles Fire Department is trained, not only in the proper administration of CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation), but also in the use of the AED (Automatic External Defibrillator). That's right, every member. That is a great thing and something we hope you find comforting.

Did you also know? Not only is it possible, but it is easy for you to achieve that very same level of training. Yes, YOU have the ability to save someone's life. Interested in learning how? We thought so. Please read on...

Here are a few statistics:

• 70% percent of Americans feel helpless to act during a cardiac emergency. The fact is, you need to know it.
• A staggering 88% of cardiac arrests occur in the home. Need we say more? 

Most of us probably have friends and/or family that may not be in the best of health. Perhaps you have little ones at home. Maybe you frequent social gatherings. All are reasons to become intimately familiar with the American Heart Association's (AHA) approved method of CPR and learn how to perform it. Here is the thing...it is actually much easier than you think! It's called "Hands-only CPR."



Now, let's just say you are witness to a cardiac arrest and then, are fortunate enough to be close-by a wall-mounted AED (again...Automatic External Defibrillator). By doing so, you have put yourself in a position to truly help. Have someone grab that AED! The AED is a device that externally shocks the human heart out of a potentially fatal cardiac (heart) rhythm, allowing a normal rhythm to resume. It sounds complicated, but the AED was designed with three things in mind: 1) ease of use 2) safety and 3) reliability. It actually provides audio instruction and literally tells you what to do.

In recent years, the LAFD has embarked upon a promising program to bring AEDs to many public facilities throughout the City of Los Angeles. This Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program has the backing of medical leaders, including the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross. You might be surprised by how many AEDs are readily available for use... by anyone! Take note, next time you are out and about.

We hope you find this information helpful. Moreover, we hope you find it inspiring! Don't be part of the majority...don't be afraid to act! As our friends at the American Heart Association say "Don't be a bystander. Be a life saver."

Want more? Then go here to find a CPR class near you!

Thank you for caring enough to take action.

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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