Building a Nation of Lifesavers in California

June 1–7 is National CPR and AED Awareness Week. It’s a powerful reminder that anyone, anywhere, can step in and save a life during 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 annually in the U.S., and 90% are fatal. Immediate CPR and AED use can double or triple survival chances—but fewer than half of people receive help from a bystander before EMS arrives.

This week, the American Heart Association is challenging all Californians to join the Nation of Lifesavers by making CPR and AED education a lasting priority in every community.

What is Happening in California

California has demonstrated national leadership by advancing both CPR in Schools and Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) policies—ensuring schools are equipped with trained individuals and coordinated emergency response plans.

Now, we are focused on expanding and strengthening CPR in Schools implementation so that every student receives high-quality, hands-on training and graduates with the skills and confidence to act in a cardiac emergency.

By pairing strong policy with effective implementation, California continues to lead the way in building a 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.