Cardiac Arrest at Home

Cardiac arrest is often associated with public places, sports venues or workplaces. However, the reality is very different. Most cardiac arrests happen at home, where family members, friends or neighbours become the first and only responders in those critical early moments.

When cardiac arrest strikes, time is the single most important factor. That is why awareness initiatives such as the Every Minute Matters campaign are vital, helping people across the UK understand how to recognise cardiac arrest and take immediate action.

What Is Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood around the body due to an electrical fault. When this happens, oxygen can no longer reach the brain and vital organs.

According to the NHS guidance on cardiac arrest, a person in cardiac arrest will collapse, become unresponsive and stop breathing normally. Without immediate help, brain damage can begin within minutes and survival chances fall rapidly.

Cardiac arrest is not the same as a heart attack. A heart attack is caused by a blockage in blood flow, while cardiac arrest is an electrical failure. Both are medical emergencies, but cardiac arrest requires instant intervention.

Cardiac Arrest at Home: The Reality

It is estimated that around 80 percent of out of hospital cardiac arrests occur in the home. This means the person most likely to witness a cardiac arrest is not a healthcare professional, but someone close to the casualty.

In many cases, people hesitate because they are unsure what to do or fear doing something wrong. This hesitation can cost valuable minutes. Education and confidence are essential to improving survival rates when cardiac arrest happens at home.

Why Every Minute Matters

For every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation, the chance of survival reduces significantly. Early action can double or even triple survival rates.

This message sits at the heart of the Every Minute Matters campaign, recently highlighted through Sky Sports’ coverage of the campaign. The initiative focuses on making CPR training accessible and encouraging more people to learn life saving skills that are most likely to be needed at home.

The campaign reinforces a simple truth. Immediate action saves lives, and anyone can learn how to help.

The Role of CPR in Cardiac Arrest at Home

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, commonly known as CPR, keeps oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and heart until emergency services arrive.

The NHS advice on CPR states that if someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, you should call 999 immediately and begin chest compressions. Emergency call handlers can guide you through CPR step by step.

CPR does not restart the heart, but it buys critical time. Even basic CPR can make a life saving difference when cardiac arrest occurs at home.

Why Defibrillators Are Critical

While CPR keeps blood circulating, a defibrillator is often needed to correct the heart’s rhythm. Automated external defibrillators, known as AEDs, are designed to be used by the public and will only deliver a shock if one is required.

Modern AEDs provide clear spoken instructions and guide the user through every stage of the rescue. They are safe, reliable and proven to save lives when used quickly.

At Defib Supplies, we support access to defibrillators for home and public access because early defibrillation significantly improves survival outcomes.

Should You Consider a Defibrillator at Home

For households where someone has an increased risk of cardiac arrest, having a defibrillator at home can provide reassurance and reduce delays in treatment.

Home defibrillators are compact, easy to use and require minimal maintenance. When combined with CPR knowledge, they form a vital part of a heart safe home.

If you are unsure where to start, our defibrillator resources and guidance can help you understand which solution is right for your household.

Preparing Your Household for a Cardiac Emergency

Creating a heart safe home does not require medical training. Small, practical steps can make a meaningful difference.

Learning CPR, encouraging others in your household to do the same and understanding how to respond in an emergency all improve confidence. It is also important to know where your nearest public defibrillator is located.

Defibrillators that are publicly accessible should be registered so emergency services can direct callers to them. Our guide on why you should register your defibrillator explains how registration helps save time when seconds matter.

Confidence Saves Lives

One of the biggest barriers in cardiac arrest response is fear. People worry about doing something wrong. Education, awareness campaigns and accessible training help remove that fear.

The Every Minute Matters campaign highlights that learning CPR does not take hours or days. Even a short session can give someone the confidence to act when it matters most.

At Defib Supplies, we believe confidence, preparation and access to the right equipment are just as important as the technology itself.

Making Every Minute Count at Home

Cardiac arrest at home is a reality that affects thousands of families across the UK every year. When it happens, the outcome often depends on how quickly someone recognises the signs and takes action.

By learning CPR, understanding how defibrillators work and supporting awareness campaigns that promote education, we can all play a role in improving survival rates.

Every minute matters. And at home, that minute often belongs to you.