Glossary
CPR
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation: chest compressions and rescue breaths given to someone whose heart or breathing has stopped.
CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is emergency care for a person whose heart or breathing has stopped. It combines chest compressions with rescue breaths. The CDC (opens in a new tab) says your CPR skills could save someone's life in the time it takes paramedics to arrive.
CPR for drowning has one key difference. Because drowning starts with breathing failure, the 2024 American Heart Association and AAP guidelines (opens in a new tab) say resuscitation must restore breathing as much as circulation. That is why Water Safety USA (opens in a new tab) recommends learning CPR with both compressions and rescue breaths.
We don't print CPR steps here, because hands-on practice with an instructor is what builds the skill. Where to learn:
- American Red Cross classes (opens in a new tab), online, blended or in person; certification lasts 2 years.
- American Heart Association classes, searchable by location.
- In New York City, free 30-minute hands-only CPR classes from the FDNY.
See where to learn CPR and drowning first aid.
What you can do today: search for a CPR class near you and put a date on your calendar.