When someone collapses in front of you, the first sixty seconds matter more than almost any other stretch of time in the entire emergency response. Here is a clear, simple sequence to follow.
Second 1-10: Check Responsiveness
Tap the person firmly and shout to check for a response. If there is none, and breathing is absent or abnormal (occasional gasping counts as abnormal), treat this as cardiac arrest.
Second 10-20: Call for Help
Shout for someone nearby to call emergency services and, if possible, retrieve the nearest AED. If you are alone, call emergency services yourself before starting compressions, using speakerphone so you can begin CPR immediately after.
Second 20-40: Begin Chest Compressions
Place the heel of your hand on the center of the chest, interlock your other hand on top, and push hard and fast — roughly 100 to 120 compressions per minute, allowing the chest to fully recoil between each one.
Second 40-60: Continue Until the AED Arrives
Keep compressions going without significant interruption. The moment an AED arrives, switch it on immediately and follow its voice prompts — it will guide pad placement and tell you exactly when to stop compressions for rhythm analysis.
Do Not Wait for "Certainty"
You do not need to be completely sure it's cardiac arrest to begin. Starting CPR on someone who didn't strictly need it carries far less risk than hesitating on someone who did.
After the AED Arrives
Continue following the device's prompts, alternating compressions and analysis, until professional responders arrive and take over.
Build the Confidence to Act
Reading this is a start — genuine hands-on practice is what builds real confidence. Book AED Training for yourself or your team, or call us directly on +971 52 1746500 with any questions.
Build the Confidence to Act in an Emergency
Heart First Response supplies, installs, maintains and trains organizations on AEDs across Dubai, United Arab Emirates and the wider Gulf region. Call us on +971 52 1746500 or visit heartfirstaed.com to get started.
