Learn hands-only CPR for Heart Month

You could save a life – take a few minutes to learn Hands-only CPR

Are you prepared to help in a medical emergency if someone goes into cardiac arrest? A cardiac patient’s chance of becoming a long-term survivor are more than doubled if a bystander on the scene administers prompt CPR.

Administering Hands-only CPR (without breaths) is a simple technique that only takes a few minutes to learn. Watch this short video to learn the steps for performing Hands-only CPR – you could save a life.

Here are the steps:

1. Call 911 – Give specific information to the dispatcher, starting with the location. Is an AED available? If so, send someone to retrieve it and use it as soon as you can.
2. Make sure the scene is safe
3. Quickly determine if the person needs CPR – tap them on the shoulder to see if they wake up. Check to see if their stomach or chest is rising.
4. Begin chest compressions – Use two hands, with straight arms, and push down hard and fast in the center of the chest. Make sure compressions are at least 2-inches deep, and are at the rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. If someone else knows CPR, alternate after two minutes of compressions.

Help us spread awareness during this Heart Month by sharing this information with at least one family member or friend.

For more CPR information visit the Seattle Fire Department.