Building a Nation of Lifesavers in North Dakota

June 1-7 is National CPR and Awareness Week. It is the perfect time to remind everyone about the importance of knowing how to save a life in a cardiac emergency.  We are urging everyone to learn Hands Only CPR.

Why it Matters

More than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur every year in the United States and 90% will be fatal. Immediate CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) use can double or even triple someone’s chance of surviving cardiac arrest. But sadly, less than half of all people who need this lifesaving intervention receive CPR from bystanders before professional help arrives.

This CPR and AED Awareness Week, the American Heart Association is challenging everyone to join the Nation of Lifesavers and commit to make CPR and AED awareness and education a permanent fixture in all communities across the country.

What is Happening in North Dakota

In North Dakota we’ve passed cardiac emergency response plans in schools and athletic events. We are working closely with the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction to have successful implementation statewide before the 2027 school year. Additionally, we are working toward a more comprehensive preparticipation physical evaluations for all youth.

Thanks to efforts of advocates and elected leaders, North Dakota is better prepared to save a life in a cardiac emergency and has become a part of the Nation of Lifesavers.

Getting Involved

You can help! Learn more about our policy work and efforts to build a Nation of Lifesavers here.

Use your superpower.  Your personal experience brings issues to life for decision makers.  And that is powerful!  Help us build a Nation of Lifesavers by sharing your story.  Simply click here to tell us all about it.