December 9, 2024 - Ohio -  Knowing CPR can be the difference between life and death in a cardiac emergency. The American Heart Association, in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, is helping to ensure students know how to respond to a cardiac emergency. Together, they are providing 500 schools in Ohio with CPR training and resources. This initiative not only helps schools fulfill state curriculum requirements on CPR but also aims to build a Nation of Lifesavers.

With a focus on cardiac arrest preparedness in schools, the American Heart Association is increasing the number of trained and willing bystanders in our communities, which means more lives are saved. Every year, approximately 350,000 Americans experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital, often at home. Their survival depends on bystanders stepping in, calling 911, and beginning CPR until help arrives. When cardiac arrests happen at home, it’s usually up to the victims’ loved ones, like a spouse or child, to save their family member’s life.

“Unfortunately, less than half of cardiac arrest victims who experience their event outside of a hospital receive bystander CPR,” said Amber Higbie, CPR in Schools Program Manager. “Survival rates are less than 12%. CPR can double or triple the chances of survival. And yet, so many die because those around them don’t feel empowered to intervene. In fact, 70% of Americans feel helpless to act during a cardiac emergency. This initiative is working to help change that.”

The American Heart Association is training educators, giving Ohio high school teachers the ability to train their students in Hands-Only CPR. The Association is also providing educators with a curriculum and a CPR training kit. This training is offered virtually, in person, or through on-demand videos.

Ohio law requires each public school that offers grades 9-12 to provide instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AED) to all students. All public high schools in Ohio are entitled to receive training, curriculum, and resources, including a CPR in Schools Training Kit. The training has in-person or virtual options.

To reserve your CPR in Schools Kit, please complete the American Heart Association’s Microsoft Form. Resources are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Contact Amber Higbie at amber.higbie@heart.org for more information or visit the project webpage at www.heart.org/OhioCPRinSchools


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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

For Media Inquiries:

Toledo/Dayton
Katie Kwapich; Katie.Kwapich@heart.org

Northeast Ohio
Chelsea Caldwell; Chelsea.Caldwell@heart.org

Cincinnati
Lori Fovel; Lori.Fovel@heart.org

Columbus
Brianne Ballard; Brianne.Ballard@heart.org

Cleveland
Jordan Van Dootingh; Jordan.VanDootingh@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org