Our Impact News Bystander CPR saves lives: What everyone needs to know CPR is an emergency life-saving technique used when someone’s heart has stopped beating and their breathing is absent or abnormal. Bystander CPR is when the person or people closest to the patient act quickly to administer CPR before emergency services arrive. This quick intervention can save a patient’s life. Every minute without CPR reduces a person’s chances of survival by around 10%. Why is bystander CPR important? About a quarter of our missions are to people who’ve suffered a cardiac arrest. Our crew can be anywhere within Dorset and Somerset within 20 minutes, but the care the patient receives before we get there can play a vital role in saving their life. Why you should act Early CPR and defibrillation (attaching a defibrillator or AED to a patient and following the instructions) by a bystander can double chances of survival. Bystander CPR could save the life of a stranger – but it’s more likely to save someone you know. Most cardiac arrests happen at home, so your action could mean the difference between life and death for a friend or family member. Act quickly to save a life. CPR and Defibrillator Awareness Sessions Here at DSAA, we want to equip our community with the essential knowledge and skills to act quickly in an emergency. We offer CPR and Defibrillator Awareness Sessions for your organisation, community, or club. Whether it’s your first time, or you need a refresher – we are here to help. Our sessions are free, but we do suggest a £50 donation - if you can. You have the power to save a life. Learn bystander CPR with DSAA and be ready when it matters most. Book Now FAQ's How do I know if someone is having a cardiac arrest? If someone is in cardiac arrest they will: Suddenly collapse Be unresponsive Have absent or abnormal breathing If you’re unsure call 999 immediately and follow their instructions. What is a defibrillator and how do I use one? A defibrillator, or AED, is a device that delivers a shock to a patient in cardiac arrest, helping to restore normal heart rhythm. You do not need special training to use a defibrillator. Once turned on, they provide spoken instructions to the user and will not shock unless necessary. Using a defibrillator in an emergency could save a life. Place a Defibrillator in your Community Can I be sued for delivering CPR? No. The Resuscitation Council UK state that: “It is very unlikely that someone in the UK who acted in good faith when trying to help another person would be held legally liable for an adverse outcome. No such action has ever been brought against someone who performed CPR and, in general, the courts in the UK look favourably on those who go to the assistance of others.” Find Detailed Guidance from Resuscitation Council UK Here Manage Cookie Preferences