10/15/2026
OCTOBER | SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST AWARENESS MONTH
AWARENESS: RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS
At Freedom Training Solutions, we build readiness through three principles: Awareness | Preparation | Rehearsal.
This October, we're applying those principles to sudden cardiac arrest, starting with the most important step: recognizing when someone needs immediate help.
Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, at any time, and without warning.
A person may suddenly collapse, become unresponsive, and continue making occasional gasping sounds. This is known as agonal breathing.
Agonal breathing is NOT normal breathing.
Those occasional gasps can be mistaken for signs of life, delaying CPR and potentially lifesaving defibrillation.
SCENARIO: WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
You're working out at your local gym when a 55-year-old man suddenly collapses.
You approach and find him unresponsive. Every 10 to 15 seconds, he makes a gasping sound.
What's your next move?
A. Roll him onto his side in the recovery position and monitor his breathing.
B. Call 911, send someone for an AED, and begin CPR.
C. Wait until the gasping stops before starting CPR.
D. Give him a few minutes to recover before calling for help.
Drop your answer in the comments. We'll follow up with the correct answer and the reasoning behind it.
Freedom Training Solutions
Awareness | Preparation | Rehearsal
