“Every Second Counts—Join Us in Saving Lives During CPR and AED Awareness Week”

June 1st through June 7th

Each year, from June 1–7, the nation pauses for a vital cause: National CPR and AED Awareness Week. The American Red Cross, alongside trusted partners like Blind Muse Foundation and First Aid Ally, leads the charge in reminding us that every second counts when it comes to cardiac arrest. This week is not just about awareness—it’s a call to action.

Why This Week Matters

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death in the United States. In fact, most cardiac arrests occur at home. Without immediate intervention, the chances of survival plummet. But with timely CPR and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), lives can be saved. You don’t have to be a healthcare professional to make a difference—you just need the right training.

The Role of the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross trains millions of individuals every year in life-saving skills. Their offerings are flexible to meet various needs:

• Online courses

• Blended learning (online content with in-person practice)

• Instructor-led classroom training

Training is available for:

• Workplace responders

• Educators and school staff

• Professional rescuers and healthcare providers

• The general public

Many of these courses are OSHA-compliant, and the Red Cross can help organizations choose the right classes to meet professional standards.

Hands-On Training for Real Impact

Evolving technology now offered in some locations for Students taking in-person courses can now train with the BigRed™ LightSaving Manikin—a high-tech tool that uses light indicators to give real-time feedback. This ensures that the technique used is not only correct but effective in simulating the flow of blood from the heart to the brain.

Access to Help—Anywhere, Anytime

The free Red Cross First Aid App is a must-have resource. It provides immediate, easy-to-follow guidance on emergencies such as heart attacks, sudden cardiac arrest, and how to perform Hands-Only CPR. It’s a powerful tool right in your pocket.

Where You Come In

At Blind Muse Foundation and First Aid Ally, we believe accessibility and preparedness go hand in hand. Whether you’re a business, a teacher, a parent, or just a caring community member—you can save a life. Our organizations are proud to work with the Red Cross to ensure that training reaches everyone, including underserved and disabled communities.

Visit firstaidally.com or blindmuse.org to find resources, partner programs, and inclusive learning opportunities. Or go directly to the Red Cross training portal to enter your ZIP code and find a course near you.

Let’s work together to make every second count.