Incline Village, NV — February is American Heart Month, a national observance focused on raising awareness about heart disease and empowering people to take action to save lives. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.
Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere — at home, at work, or in public spaces — and often without warning. Each year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals. Immediate action by bystanders can mean the difference between life and death.
Recognizing the Signs and When to Call 911
Knowing the warning signs of a cardiac emergency and acting quickly can save lives. Call 911 immediately if someone experiences any of the following symptoms:
Possible Signs of Cardiac Arrest:
- Sudden collapse
- Unresponsiveness
- Not breathing or only gasping
- No pulse
If cardiac arrest is suspected, call 911 right away, begin Hands-Only CPR, and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if one is available until emergency responders arrive.
Possible Signs of a Heart Attack:
- Chest discomfort or pain (pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain)
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness
Do not drive yourself to the hospital. Calling 911 ensures rapid medical response and allows lifesaving care to begin immediately.
Hands-Only CPR saves lives.
When CPR is started right away, a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival can double or even triple. Hands-Only CPR is easy to learn and does not require medical training — just strong, fast, chest compressions until emergency responders arrive.
In addition to CPR, early use of an AED is critical. AEDs are designed for public use and provide clear, step-by-step instructions to help restore a normal heart rhythm during cardiac arrest.
How the Community Can Take Action This February:
- Enroll in a CPR class
- Learn how to recognize cardiac arrest and call 911 immediately
- Know where AEDs are located in workplaces and public spaces
- Share heart health and emergency response information with family and friends
Cardiovascular disease risk factors — including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity, and poor nutrition — remain widespread. Small lifestyle changes, combined with emergency preparedness, can help reduce risk and improve survival outcomes.
American Heart Month serves as a reminder that ordinary people are often the true first responders. By learning lifesaving skills and staying heart-healthy, communities can be better prepared to protect one another.
A Message from NLTFPD
“Cardiac emergencies do not wait for firefighters or paramedics to arrive — they depend on the people already on scene,” said Fire Chief Ryan Sommers. “Learning CPR is one of the most impactful ways community members can protect their families, coworkers, and neighbors. These are simple skills that truly save lives.”
To support community preparedness, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) offers CPR classes throughout the year. These classes provide hands-on training in CPR and AED use and are available to community members, businesses, and organizations interested in strengthening lifesaving skills.
Learn More
- For more information about heart health, CPR, and AED awareness, visit the American Heart Association at heart.org
- Visit nltfpd.org to learn more about NLTFPD CPR class offerings.
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