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Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERP) & Training

During a cardiac emergency, having a clear, well-developed plan can mean the difference between life and death. Join the Nation of Lifesavers™ and be prepared to act when every second counts.

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Be Prepared to Act When a Cardiac Emergency Happens

Sudden cardiac arrest can occur anywhere—at work, at school, or in the community. Yet too often, people nearby aren’t prepared to respond in the critical first minutes before professional help arrives.

The American Heart Association’s CERP training helps organizations close that gap. Through structured training and clear protocols, CERP prepares your team to recognize an emergency, activate a coordinated response, start CPR, and use an AED with confidence—so your organization is ready to act when every second counts.

What we offer

The American Heart Association provides three specialized CERP tracks designed to meet the unique needs of your environment:

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CERP for Communities & Businesses

Equipping employers, workplaces, organizations, and community groups with the confidence to respond in cardiac emergencies.

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CERP for Schools

Support K–12 schools in building safer learning environments while meeting individual state compliance requirements.

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DIY CERP

DIY CERP

Access our Do-It-Yourself CERP Toolkit for downloadable materials that support independent planning and execution of a CERP initiative.

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Download our Resources

View our resources below to learn more and share!

CERP for Schools

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Are you compliant? Learn more about our CERPs for your school or school district. 

CERP for Businesses

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There are about 10,000 cardiac arrests in the workplace each year in the United States. Create a safer workplace.

DIY CERP

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Access our Do-It-Yourself Toolkit for materials that support independent execution of a CERP!

Let’s Get Started

Please select Start below and fill out our contact form. We will reach out to you soon!