SALT LAKE CITY — Health experts across Utah are urging residents to take CPR training as part of Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, following new national guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA) — the first major update since 2020.

According to the AHA, more than 350,000 Americans experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year, and survival rates remain low without immediate bystander intervention. The updated resuscitation guidance emphasizes “lay rescuer interventions” — ordinary citizens performing CPR before professional help arrives.

The American Red Cross is joining the effort, encouraging people to enroll in CPR classes or learn hands-only CPR, a simplified version that doesn’t require rescue breaths.

“Instead of remembering all those details, just go right into chest compressions,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Arizona. “Make sure the person is on a firm surface — if not, pull them to the ground — and start compressions right away. It’s simple, but it can keep oxygen flowing and give that person a fighting chance.”

The AHA’s new recommendations also include revised steps for choking emergencies. For adults and children, rescuers should alternate five back blows with five abdominal thrusts until the blockage is cleared or the person becomes unconscious. For infants, however, abdominal thrusts are not recommended.

In a first, the updated guidance also provides clear instructions for using naloxone (Narcan) in cases of suspected opioid overdose — outlining when and how to administer the life-saving medication.

Health officials say CPR knowledge can make the difference between life and death in those crucial first minutes of cardiac arrest. Training opportunities are available year-round, with both in-person and virtual options through the American Red Cross and other certified organizations.

Residents can register for CPR classes and find more information on the American Red Cross website.