Though sudden cardiac arrest is one of the top causes of death in the United States, many people do not know how to do cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR. Knowing this technique can make all the difference in an emergency when quick thinking is key.

The health emergency training experts at Northern KY Emergency Medical Services Inc. located in Fort Thomas have three reasons why everyone should learn CPR:

• It Makes a Difference: Unfortunately, many people who experience a cardiac arrest don’t survive. More concerning is the fact that only 32 percent of victims receive CPR from an onlooker, leading to less than an 8 percent survival rate outside of the hospital. Fortunately, you can make a difference! Immediate CPR has been shown to more than double one's chances of surviving a cardiac arrest.
• It Could Save Someone You Love: Since more than 80 percent of cardiac arrests happen at home, it is very likely that the life you save will be a family member or friend.
• It Doesn't Require Mouth-To-Mouth Contact: A common misconception that prevents many from learning CPR is using it requires mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. In 2010, the CPR standards changed allowing individuals who don't want to or know how to do mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to opt for hands-only CPR. The best part is about this technique is that it’s just as easy to use and effective as standard CPR.

The health professionals at Northern KY Emergency Medical Services Inc. also offer CPR and first aid training. For more information about their services, visit their web site or call (859) 572-4511.