No matter your plans this summer, the American Red Cross wants you to be prepared in case you witness a cardiac emergency.
So here are a few pointers when it comes to administering first aid:
First, if someone experiences chest pain and shortness of breath, call 911 right away. If he or she stops breathing or becomes unconscious, give them hands-only CPR. This is done by pushing in the center of the chest. You first put the heel of your hand on the victim's breastbone in the center of the chest.
Second, put your hand on top and interlock your fingers. Compressions should be about 2 inches deep at a count of at least one hundred per minute. Push hard and push fast. Do this until emergency responders arrive, or the person starts breathing. Use an A.E.D., or automatic external defibrillator, when available. These are located in many public places like airports, schools and workplaces.
If no one nearby is trained in using an A.E.D., don't panic. The machines guide you through each step. The Red Cross says for each minute that CPR and defibrillation are delayed, the person's chance of survival is reduced by seven to ten percent.
