February is Heart Month: The Life-Saving Power of CPR & First Aid

February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart health and the importance of preventing cardiovascular disease. While adopting a healthy lifestyle is key to heart health, knowing CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid can be just as crucial—because in a cardiac emergency, immediate action can save a life.

Why CPR Matters During Heart Month

Each year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the U.S. alone. Unfortunately, many victims don’t receive CPR before emergency responders arrive. Brain damage can begin within four minutes of the heart stopping, and without immediate action, survival chances drop drastically.

The good news? Bystander CPR can double or even triple survival rates. That’s why learning CPR is one of the most important things you can do during Heart Month!

How to Perform Hands-Only CPR

If you see someone collapse and they’re unresponsive:

• Call 911 – Get emergency help on the way.
• Push Hard & Fast – Place both hands in the center of the chest and push at least 2 inches deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute (think of the beat of “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees).
• Continue Until Help Arrives – Don’t stop unless the person revives, an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is available, or emergency responders take over.

Pro Tip: If an AED is nearby, use it! AEDs deliver an electric shock to restart the heart and can significantly improve survival chances.

First Aid Tips for Heart-Related Emergencies

Recognizing a Heart Attack

Unlike cardiac arrest (which is a sudden electrical malfunction), a heart attack is caused by a blockage that restricts blood flow to the heart. Common symptoms include:

? Chest pain or discomfort
? Shortness of breath
? Nausea, dizziness, or cold sweats
? Pain in the arms, jaw, back, or stomach

What to Do:

• Call 911 immediately
• Keep the person calm and seated
• If they are conscious, offer aspirin (if not allergic) to help thin the blood
• Be prepared to start CPR if they become unresponsive

Stroke: Act FAST

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked, and every second counts! Use the FAST method to recognize stroke symptoms:

• F – Face drooping
• A – Arm weakness
• S – Speech difficulty
• T – Time to call 911

The faster someone receives medical attention, the better their chance of recovery.

How You Can Take Action This Heart Month

• Learn CPR & First Aid – Consider taking a CPR certification class or refreshing your skills.
• Check for AEDs – Locate AEDs at your workplace, gym, or community spaces.
• Spread Awareness – Talk to family and friends about heart health and emergency preparedness.
• Keep a First Aid Kit – Having a fully stocked CPR & first aid kit on hand can be life-saving in an emergency.

Want to take action? Sign up for a CPR class today here, call 1-800-480-1277, or email [email protected] for more information. You can also check out our CPR & first aid products to stay prepared!