CPR & AEDs

When someone’s heart stops, every minute without CPR lowers their chance of survival. Starting CPR right away and using an AED can double or triple their chances.

• Everyone

Signs of cardiac arrest

• Suddenly collapses and doesn’t respond to shouting or tapping
• Not breathing, or only gasping

Hands-only CPR for adults

1. Make sure the scene is safe (power off, no traffic).
2. Call 911 and send someone for the AED.
3. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest: at least 2 inches deep, at 100 to 120 pushes per minute (the beat of “Stayin’ Alive”). Let the chest come back up between pushes.
4. Keep going until help arrives, an AED is ready, or the person starts breathing. Switch with someone every 2 minutes if you can.

Using an AED

1. Turn it on and follow the voice prompts.
2. Expose the chest and attach the pads as shown on the pictures. Dry the chest if wet.
3. Make sure no one is touching the person while it analyzes and shocks.
4. Resume CPR right away after the shock, or if no shock is advised.

Last updated: October 1, 2026