Posted on 10/03/2025
RtR

October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month!

The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation (SCAF) is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Ready to Respond: Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Training Week, taking place October 12–18, 2025, during National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month.

This annual campaign, observed the second full week of October, is designed to raise awareness about sudden cardiac arrest and equip schools, workplaces, and communities with lifesaving knowledge and skills through CPR and AED training.

Why Training Week Matters

  • High Incidence: More than 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur annually in the U.S., and nearly 90% are fatal.
  • Immediate Response Saves Lives: CPR can double or triple survival rates, yet fewer than half of victims receive bystander aid.
  • Close to Home: About 70% of cardiac arrests happen at home — meaning the life you save is most likely that of a loved one.
  • Workplace Safety: An estimated 10,000 cardiac arrests occur at work each year in the U.S.
  • Protecting Students: SCA is the leading cause of death on school campuses.

This October, more than 80 training sites nationwide are already registered to participate in Ready to Respond: SCA Training Week. These events will reach thousands of people with lifesaving education about SCA, CPR, and AEDs.

Learn the facts. Gain the skills. Save a life.

How to Get Involved During SCA Awareness Month

  • Find a Ready to Respond Training: Visit SCAF’s website to locate a public/community event near you.
  • Share Facts & Resources: Amplify lifesaving information all month long by following and sharing SCAF’s social media posts.
  • Share information with friends, family, schools, and workplaces to help raise awareness.
  • Become a HEART Champion: Join a nationwide network of volunteers raising awareness about SCA year-round. Join here.
  • Change your social media photos to raise awareness and show your support: Facebook Cover Photo or LinkedIn Cover Photo
  • Purchase some awareness merchandise through our SCAF online store!
  • Fundraise for SCAF or make a donation to support our 20th Anniversary! 

Together, we can strengthen the Chain of Survival and ensure more lives are saved.

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