The Global first aid reference centre (IFRC) and Snapchat combine forces to teach Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) around the globe ahead of ‘World Restart a Heart Day’
To coincide with World Restart a Heart Day on 16 October, camera company Snap has partnered with the Global First Aid Reference Centre and social technology agency Gospooky to create a new augmented reality experience that teaches the fundamentals of CPR.
Released globally and available in 10 languages, the new lens uses Snap’s world leading augmented reality technology to go beyond reading about the techniques and showing them in a true-to-life example how to perform the lifesaving procedures. It aims to educate users on the vital steps to take should they enter an emergency situation and allows them to learn the fundamentals of CPR step by step. The whole experience can be repeated to aid learning.
After opening the lens via Snapcode or through the Snapchat carousel, the Lens creates a life size digital injured/ill person and places them in the room around the user. It then takes Snapchatters through important steps of CPR like:
- Checking responsiveness
- Opening the airways
- Checking for breathing
- Calling for help (alerting )
- Chest compressions
- Delivering rescue breaths
- Using Automated External Defibrillator
At the same time, elements like the frequency and speed of compressions are taught, and multiple choice questions help to clarify each step. While not envisioned as a replacement for formal CPR training, the initiative aims to educate on the basic steps and importance of CPR, and to increase their confidence and willingness to act in such a situation. It also drives users to their local Red Cross Red Crescent website to get more information or find out how to organise training in person.
How to find and use the lens
- You must have the latest version of Snapchat downloaded then simply open it, then navigate to the lens on the carousel, or point the camera at the Snapcode
- Press and hold the Snapcode on your phone screen to unlock the Lens
- Once unlocked, follow the on-screen instructions as it takes you through the various steps of performing CPR
- After the experience finishes, click the button to find out more on the IFRC Global First Aid Reference Centre’s website
The Lens is available in English, French, Arabic, Spanish, Italian, Sweden, Japanese, Hindi and Norwegian. Unfortunately, some countries won’t be able to access the lens due to local regulations and differences on CPR
TRY IT NOW ! #Worldrestartaheart
World First Aid Day 2025
September 13First Aid Education European Network
September 17 - September 20World Restart a Heart Day
October 16
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