During National Public Health Week, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health unveiled its Community Readiness Champions Initiative.
This program introduces a series of trainings designed to equip Los Angeles county residents and workers with essential lifesaving skills.
These skills are crucial during emergencies or disasters when emergency services might face delays.
The initiative covers Hands-only CPR/AED awareness, STOP THE BLEED®, Mental Health First Aid, and Naloxone training.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) handles over 1,500 emergency incidents daily, transporting around 600 people to hospitals.
“Through this important training initiative, you can help us save a life before we arrive, increasing the patient’s chance of survival,” said an LAFD spokesperson.
This initiative is a proactive step towards enhancing community readiness and response capabilities in life-threatening situations.
Surprisingly, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals annually in the United States, with only 40% of those affected receiving immediate help before the arrival of medical professionals.
Hands-only CPR is a critical intervention that can significantly improve survival chances.
This method, involving calling 911 and performing chest compressions, is highlighted for its simplicity and effectiveness.
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) plays a crucial role in disseminating hands-only CPR knowledge.
As volunteers trained to assist in emergencies, CERT members offer free training sessions on this vital skill, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in emergency preparedness.
By promoting hands-only CPR training, the LAFD and local health leaders aim to foster a culture of preparedness and mutual care.
These efforts not only increase the chance of survival for individuals experiencing cardiac arrest but also contribute to a stronger, more resilient community fabric.
Training is accessible to the public through various channels, including local CERT programs, fire departments, and community centers.
Sessions are designed to be brief yet comprehensive, ensuring participants are well-equipped to act in emergencies.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s launch of the Community Readiness Champions Initiative represents a significant step forward in public health and emergency preparedness.
By focusing on essential lifesaving skills such as hands-only CPR and AED awareness, the initiative addresses a critical gap in community response to cardiac emergencies, which are alarmingly common outside of hospital settings.
This approach aligns with broader public health goals of reducing mortality from sudden cardiac arrests and fostering a culture of preparedness that transcends individual capabilities.
