Four Simple Steps to Save Lives

Most cardiac arrests happen in the home to a spouse or friend. A basic knowledge of CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) can mean the difference between life and death in the critical period before ambulance paramedics arrive.

Almost 250,000 Victorians aged over 50 have already taken advantage of a free awareness program pioneered by Ambulance Victoria that equips people with the know-how to respond to cardiac arrest.

Thousands of community groups across the state are learning that any CPR given to someone whose heart has stopped to help them hold on until paramedics can take over, is better than doing nothing at all.

The innovative 4 Steps for Life program has been designed specifically for the over 50s – the group at greatest risk of cardiac arrest and often a group with little or no first aid training.

"4 Steps for Life is so easy and is actually lots of fun. Learning CPR is something you not only do for yourself but for those you care about," said CPR Program Coordinator Lorraine Kamp.

"Many people worry about doing something wrong. But when someone’s heart has stopped, anything you do to help that person until paramedics arrive is better than nothing."

The 4 Steps for Life program is free to club and groups whose membership includes people aged over 50. It features a short, entertaining and informative video or DVD for group viewing that gives people life-saving skills.

Participants get to practice their CPR with Pillow Pal, a specially printed pillowcase showing the human chest, and take home information sheets answering common questions and handy fridge magnets that list the ‘4 Steps’ and contact numbers.

Kits are free to community groups of all types and sizes and available in several languages other than English, including Italian, Greek, Cantonese, Mandarin, Turkish, Arabic, Croatian, Macedonian, Spanish and Vietnamese.

For further information on how to get involved with this life-saving initiative, contact the information line on 1300 550 472.