American Heart Month: Why Learning Hands‑Only CPR Can Save a Life

February is also American Heart Month, a national reminder of the importance of heart health and emergency preparedness. This year, the American Heart Association is encouraging people of all ages to join its Nation of Lifesavers initiative by learning Hands‑Only CPR.

For adults and teens, Hands‑Only CPR can double or even triple the chance of survival when someone experiences cardiac arrest.

Two Simple Steps That Make a Difference

Hands‑Only CPR is easy to remember and does not require formal medical training:

• Step 1: Call 911 immediately if you see a teen or adult suddenly collapse

• Step 2: Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a pace of about 100 beats per minute (A helpful tip: keep rhythm with the song “Staying Alive.”)

Prepared Communities Save Lives

Emergencies don’t wait for the perfect moment, but preparation makes a difference. Learning Hands‑Only CPR is one way individuals, families, and communities can protect one another—at home, at work, or in public spaces.

At BGAAAIL, promoting healthy aging includes sharing tools that help people stay safe, informed, and ready to respond when it matters most.