About the NH CPR Challenge
350,000+
cardiac arrests outside hospitals each year
2–3x
increased survival with bystander CPR
~10%
current survival rate
For every minute without CPR, survival drops 7–10%. Bystander CPR can double or triple the chance of survival.
What Is the CPR Challenge?
The NH CPR Challenge is a bipartisan initiative by New Hampshire's five Executive Councilors to train as many Granite Staters as possible in Hands-Only CPR during EMS Week 2026 (May 17–23).
Each Executive Council district is competing to see who can train the most people. All trainings are completely free and take just 15–20 minutes. No prior experience is needed.
The goal: give every New Hampshire resident the confidence to act if they witness a cardiac arrest. You don't need to be a medical professional—you just need to know two steps.
What Is Hands-Only CPR?
Hands-Only CPR is CPR without mouth-to-mouth breaths. It's recommended for use by people who witness an adult or teen suddenly collapse. It has just two steps:
Step 1: Call 911
If you see someone suddenly collapse, call 911 immediately (or direct someone nearby to call).
Step 2: Push Hard & Fast
Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at 100–120 compressions per minute until help arrives.
Tip: Push to the beat of “Stayin' Alive” by the Bee Gees—about 100 beats per minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a real CPR certification?
No. This is a Hands-Only CPR awareness training. You'll receive a certificate of participation, but it is not an official certification from the AHA or Red Cross.
Who can attend?
Anyone! No age restrictions or prerequisites.
How much does it cost?
Nothing. All trainings are completely free.
How long does it take?
15–20 minutes. Learn the two steps, practice compressions, and you're done.
Can I host a training?
Yes! Fire departments, businesses, churches, and community organizations are welcome. Apply here.
What district am I in?
Check our interactive map to find your Executive Council district.
What if I can't make it during EMS Week?
Check out the American Heart Association's free resources at cpr.heart.org to learn on your own.
The Executive Council
All five councilors are working together on the CPR Challenge.
Joseph Kenney
District 1
Karen Liot Hill
District 2
Janet Stevens
District 3
John Stephen
District 4
Dave Wheeler
District 5
Ready to Learn?
It takes just 15 minutes.
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