What should you do immediately when you find someone unresponsive and not breathing?

When you find someone unresponsive and not breathing, the immediate priority is to begin CPR right away. This action is critical because the lack of breathing indicates that the person's heart may not be pumping blood effectively, and without timely intervention, brain damage or death can occur within just a few minutes.

Starting CPR provides vital oxygenated blood to the brain and other organs, which increases the chances of survival until professional medical help arrives. It is important to initiate chest compressions as quickly as possible, as every moment counts in an emergency.

While checking for a pulse, calling for help, or looking for an AED are important steps in the overall response to a cardiac emergency, they should come after the immediate action of starting CPR on an unresponsive, non-breathing person. By initiating CPR right away, you are taking the most crucial step to help save a life.