National CPR & AED Awareness Week Highlights the Importance of Lifesaving Skills

June 1–7 is recognized as National CPR & AED Awareness Week, a time to remind community members that learning basic lifesaving skills can make a critical difference during an emergency.

When someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. Immediate CPR can help maintain blood flow to the brain and vital organs until emergency medical services arrive. An automated external defibrillator, commonly known as an AED, can also deliver a lifesaving shock when needed and is designed to be used by trained responders and bystanders alike.

Fire and EMS personnel encourage residents, businesses, schools, churches, and community organizations to take time this week to learn or refresh their CPR and AED skills. These simple actions can help prepare individuals to respond with confidence during a medical emergency.

“Cardiac emergencies can happen anywhere — at home, at work, at school, or in a public place,” a department spokesperson said. “The faster CPR is started and an AED is used, the better the chance of survival. Training gives people the confidence to help until first responders arrive.”

Community members are also encouraged to become familiar with the locations of AEDs in places they visit regularly, including gyms, offices, schools, recreational facilities, and houses of worship.

During National CPR & AED Awareness Week, take a few minutes to learn the signs of cardiac arrest, sign up for a CPR class, and talk with family members about what to do in an emergency. Being prepared can help save a life.