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An unfortunately low, 6.4% percent of people who suffer from cardiac arrest survive. This is because the majority of people who witness the arrest do not know how to perform CPR. Standing for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, CPR is the delivering of rescue breathes and chest compressions to a victim who is suspected to be in cardiac arrest. Invented in 1960, CPR is a simple, yet effective, procedure that provides oxygenated blood to the brain and heart long enough to keep vital organs functioning until trained emergency help arrives. When performed correctly, CPR gives the victim a 40% chance of survival.

Many people act on impulse when faced with an emergency situation. Although our first instinct may be to help, it is important to check and make sure that we will not be putting ourselves in danger. Assess the surroundings and make sure that the scene is safe.' During any CPR class, this will be one of the first things that you learn. Once you have determined whether or not the scene is safe, call 9-1-1. If you there are people around you, clearly point out an individual and direct them to dial 9-1-1. However, if you are alone with the victim, dial 9-1-1 before beginning 9-1-1. Making this call could ensure saving the victim.

There are several DO NOT'S that one should know before learning and performing CPR.

-DO NOT leave the victim alone.

-DO NOT try to get the victim to drink water.

-DO NOT throw water on the victim's face.

-DO NOT try to revive the victim by slapping him in the face.

-DO NOT try to put the victim in to a sitting position.

CPR is differs from adults, children, and infants, so be sure to know the correct form of CPR before beginning. The differences are small, but critical.

The first thing that one should do before initiating CPR is to check the victim for responsiveness. If there is any suspicion of head of neck injuries, do not move the victim. On the other hand, if there is no suspicion, gently shake the victim and ask the "Are you okay? Can I help you?" If the name of the victim is known, be sure to include it in the questioning. Before continuing, reiteration of asking "Can I help you," is very important. Help is not allowed to be given unless it is agreed to.

Look-Listen-Feel for any signs of breathing. This step is as straight forward as it sounds. Look at the victim's chest for signs of rising; place your head sideways by the victim's nose (your ear facing their nose) to Listen and Feel for breathing. Sometimes the victim's breathing

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