CHILLICOTHE, OH (Oct. 15, 2025) — Staff members from all branches of the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library received Hands-Only CPR training on Monday, October 13, as part of their annual Professional Development Day. Led by the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, this training is a key component of the library’s Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP), a structured guide designed to improve emergency preparedness and reduce death from cardiac arrest.

The initiative reflects a growing movement across the country to equip public spaces with lifesaving tools and training. Similar efforts have been implemented in community centers, schools, and faith-based organizations, where access to CPR education and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) has significantly improved readiness and survival outcomes.

“Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, at any time — and immediate action can mean the difference between life and death,” said Nancy Tobbe, executive director for the American Heart Association, Central Ohio. “By working alongside the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library, we are ensuring more people are ready to respond when it matters most — strengthening our community’s safety and increasing the chances of survival when every second counts.”

Each year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the United States, and nearly 90% of those affected do not survive. A major factor is the lack of immediate intervention—only about 40% of victims receive CPR before professional help arrives. Hands-Only CPR, which involves calling 911 and pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest, has been shown to be as effective as conventional CPR in the first critical minutes and can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.

The Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library joins a growing number of organizations adopting Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERP) to ensure staff and volunteers are prepared to act in emergencies. A CERP improves survival by training individuals in public settings to respond quickly and effectively. The plan includes CPR instruction, access to automated external defibrillators, clear emergency protocols and regular practice drills. By implementing a CERP, the library is taking meaningful steps to create a safer environment and improve outcomes during cardiac events.

By integrating CPR education into its professional development programming, the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library is helping build a stronger chain of survival in the community—one that starts with everyday people who are ready to step in and save a life.

To learn more about the Cardiac Emergency Response Plan and Hands-Only CPR, visit https://cpr.heart.org/en/training-programs/cardiac-emergency-response-plan-cerp.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.

For Media Inquiries:
Brianne Ballard: brianne.ballard@heart.org
heart.org and stroke.org