What to Know About World Restart a Heart Day:
- When is World Restart a Heart Day? October 16 every year
- What is World Restart a Heart Day? A global campaign to teach CPR and raise awareness about sudden cardiac arrest
- Why it matters: Early CPR and AED use can double or triple survival rates
- How to help:
- Learn CPR and how to use an AED, or refresh your skills
- Share the message using #WorldRestartAHeart
- Join local CPR training events or host one at your workplace or school
- Goal: Empower more bystanders to take action and save lives before emergency responders arrive
What Is World Restart a Heart Day?
Every year, millions of people around the world experience sudden cardiac arrest, and too many don’t survive. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the power of bystander CPR and fast access to an AED (automated external defibrillator), we can change outcomes.
That’s the mission behind World Restart a Heart Day, held every October 16.
The initiative began in 2018 with the European Resuscitation Council and is now a global effort led by the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) to raise awareness, encourage CPR training, and inspire everyday people to be ready to help when it matters most.
Why It Matters
When someone goes into cardiac arrest, every second counts.
For every minute without CPR or defibrillation, the chance of survival drops by 7-10%. But survival rates can double or even triple when a bystander acts quickly.
By starting CPR and using an AED before emergency services arrive, World Restart a Heart Day aims to save up to 200,000 additional lives each year.
What Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
A sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, cutting off blood flow to the brain and other organs. The person collapses, loses consciousness, and stops breathing or stops breathing normally.
Without immediate CPR or an AED shock, it can be fatal within minutes.
When Is World Restart a Heart Day?
Mark your calendar for October 16 every year. World Restart a Heart Day is a global day of action to promote CPR awareness and training.
While activities take place year-round, this day brings people together across continents to learn, teach, and celebrate life-saving skills.
What Happens on World Restart a Heart Day?
All over the world, you’ll find:
- Hands-on CPR demonstrations in schools, workplaces, and communities
- Survivor stories showcasing the real-life power of bystander CPR and AED use
- Social media campaigns using the hashtag #WorldRestartAHeart
- Free training resources and events hosted by local organizations
Even if you can’t attend an event, you can still make an impact by learning CPR and how to use an AED, refreshing your skills, and/or encouraging others to do the same.
How You Can Get Involved
- Learn CPR: Take an in-person or online course and be prepared to save a life.
- Locate AEDs: Find the closest AED in your workplace, school, gym, and other locations you frequent.
- Share the Message: Use #WorldRestartAHeart to raise awareness on social media.
- Get Involved Locally: Join or host a CPR training session in your community.
Join the Movement and Be Ready to Save a Life
At AED.US, we believe everyone has the power to be a lifesaver.
Whether you’re a parent, coach, teacher, or simply a concerned citizen, learning CPR and knowing where your nearest AED is located could make all the difference.
This World Restart a Heart Day, take action to learn, share, and save.