Basic CPR Knowledge Parents Should Know: Hong Kong Family First Aid Guide

In busy and densely populated Hong Kong, despite the rapid response of the public medical rescue system, the "first minute" of CPR performed by the parents/caregivers present is often the most critical in the event of an accident (such as accidental suffocation, child drowning, or adult cardiac arrest). According to the Hong Kong Fire Services Department, in cases of cardiac arrest, the survival rate can decrease by 7-10% for every minute of delay.
Therefore, as parents, understanding and mastering the basic CPR process not only provides an extra layer of safety for your child but also for the entire family.

Why should parents also learn CPR?

• In the event of an emergency at home, school, playground, or swimming pool, the time before the ambulance arrives is particularly critical. The Fire Services Department points out that early emergency calls + early CPR + early AED (automated external defibrillator) = a crucial link in the "chain of survival."

• Many families in Hong Kong have young children, multigenerational households, or require domestic help. If a child or elderly family member experiences suffocation or cardiac arrest, the presence of CPR skills by the parents/caregivers makes a significant difference.

• Several local organizations offer CPR and first aid courses for children and adults to parents and domestic helpers.

II. Basic CPR Procedure (Hong Kong Standard)

The following is a general procedure applicable to Hong Kong (this is not a replacement for professional courses; parents are advised to attend in-person courses separately):

1. Ensure environmental safety — confirm that there are no hazards at the site (e.g., electric shock, spilled liquids, moving vehicles).

2. Check responsiveness —pat the shoulder lightly and call out loudly, "Are you okay?" to determine if the person is conscious.

3. Call an ambulance —If the injured person is unresponsive or not breathing normally, dial 999 immediately and note "Someone is unconscious and has stopped breathing/is breathing weakly".

4. Check breathing —Observe chest rise and fall for about 5-10 seconds. If there is no normal breathing (or death breathing), begin CPR.

5. Begin chest compressions (adults)

   • Place the heel of one hand on the lower half of the sternum, place the other hand on top, and straighten both arms.

   • The pressing depth should be no less than 5 cm, and the speed should be approximately 100-120 times per minute.

   • The ratio is 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths (if available/with equipment). If rescue breathing equipment is unavailable, chest compressions alone are sufficient.

6. Kids/Baby Version

   • For children (approximately 1-8 years old), one rescuer can be assigned to a 30:2 ratio; for two rescuers, the ratio can be changed to 15:2.

   • For infants (under 1 year old), press on the lower half of the sternum with two fingers to a depth of about 5 cm.

7. Continue until paramedics arrive or the injured person regains consciousness . If an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is available, use it immediately. The Hong Kong Fire Services Department offers a free "Press to shock – Save a life" CPR + AED course.

III. Matters that parents should pay special attention to in the Hong Kong context

• Small living space or multiple people living together : You may need others to help make room when pressing.

• For situations requiring care by domestic helpers : It is recommended that parents and domestic helpers take CPR courses together to improve the family's emergency response capabilities.

• Schools and activity venues often have AEDs installed : for example, some schools have implemented the "Heart Safe Campus" program and installed AEDs.

• Language/Cultural Considerations : Some first aid courses offer instruction in Mandarin/Cantonese, allowing parents to choose courses that suit their preferred language.

• Establish a family emergency plan : including who is responsible for calling for help, who will start CPR, the location of the nearest AED, and a simple list of emergency contacts.

• Regular refresher training and practice : Skills can deteriorate over time, so it is recommended to review CPR courses every 1-2 years.

IV. Curriculum and Resources (Suitable for Hong Kong Parents)

• The Hong Kong Fire Services Department offers free CPR + AED courses.

• Local organizations (such as the Hong Kong St. John Ambulance) also offer public CPR/first aid courses.

• Private training centers offer CPR and first aid classes specifically for parents and domestic helpers.

V. A simple checklist for parents

• I/at least one adult in my family knows the basic CPR procedure.

• Know the location of AED at home or in places you frequent.

• We have a family emergency plan, and our children/domestic helpers are aware of it.

• Arrange for participants to attend CPR/first aid courses (including children's versions).

• Perform skills refresher training or home simulation exercises every 1-2 years.

Conclusion

As a parent, mastering CPR is not just about learning a skill, but also a responsibility to your child and family. In a fast-paced, high-density city like Hong Kong, the first minute of action often determines life or death in the event of an accident. Learning and practicing CPR together with your child creates an extra layer of safety for your family. We hope you can take the first step in this preparation today.

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