Kenilworth Urges Community Preparedness for Cardiac Emergencies

October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, and the Borough of Kenilworth is reminding residents about the importance of recognizing the signs and acting quickly.

Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively. A person experiencing cardiac arrest will collapse, become unresponsive, and stop breathing normally or only gasp for air. These are medical emergencies requiring immediate intervention.

"Every second matters," Kenilworth officials emphasize. "Immediate CPR helps keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs, while an AED can deliver a lifesaving shock when needed."

If you witness someone exhibiting signs of cardiac arrest, do not wait. Follow these critical steps:

Call 911 immediately. Emergency responders need to know about the situation right away.

Start CPR if trained. Chest compressions help maintain blood flow to vital organs. Do not wait to understand why the person collapsed—if they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, treat it as a medical emergency.

Use an AED as soon as one is available. An automated external defibrillator can deliver a shock that restores the heart's rhythm. Most public spaces, including schools and community facilities, have AEDs on hand.

The Borough of Kenilworth encourages all residents to take a few minutes to learn CPR, locate AEDs in their community, and be prepared to act when seconds count. Knowing these skills and resources could mean the difference between life and death.

Union County Life supports Kenilworth's commitment to cardiac awareness and community preparedness.

For information about CPR training in Kenilworth, contact your local emergency services or visit the American Heart Association website.

FAQ

Q: What is sudden cardiac arrest?
A: Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively. A person will collapse, become unresponsive, and stop breathing normally or only gasp for air. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate CPR and defibrillation.

Q: What are the signs of sudden cardiac arrest?
A: The signs are sudden collapse, unresponsiveness, and abnormal breathing or gasping. If you witness these signs, call 911 and begin CPR immediately.

Q: Do I need to know why someone collapsed before helping?
A: No. You do not need to understand the cause of the collapse. If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, treat it as a medical emergency and call 911 and start CPR immediately.

Q: Why is CPR so important?
A: CPR maintains blood flow to the brain and other vital organs while waiting for emergency responders or an AED. Every second of delay reduces the chances of survival.

Q: What does an AED do?
A: An automated external defibrillator (AED) analyzes the heart's rhythm and delivers an electric shock if needed to restore normal heartbeat. AEDs are designed to be used by anyone, not just medical professionals.

Q: Where can I find an AED in my community?
A: AEDs are typically located in schools, public facilities, gyms, workplaces, and shopping centers. The Borough of Kenilworth encourages residents to learn where AEDs are located in their neighborhood and at places they frequently visit.

Q: Where can I learn CPR?
A: The American Heart Association offers CPR training courses. You can also contact the Borough of Kenilworth or local emergency services for information about CPR training programs in your area.

Q: Is October a special month for cardiac awareness?
A: Yes. October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, when communities across the country emphasize the importance of cardiac preparedness and response.