Mike Figuero is the founder and president of the American AED CPR Association.
Mike was raised in New York, where at a young age he became an instructor for the American Red Cross, the National Safety Council, the American Safety Health Institute (ASHI), and the American Heart Association (AHA). He then earned a BS in Mathematics and trained to become a paramedic.
In 1995, Mike began teaching emergency medical and continuing education classes at hospitals, schools, and other institutions. He has taught at Molloy College, New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital to name a few.
In 1999, Mike founded the American AED CPR Association (AEDCPR), an organization specializing in emergency cardiac care training. Under his leadership, AEDCPR has expanded throughout the United States, and internationally into Europe, Asia, and Africa. Through their network of instructors and innovative website, they have trained over a million people in CPR, AED, First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogens .
Mike helped develop one of the first online learning platforms for the NYS department of labor. He continues to develop new and innovative online tools. This is why the American AED CPR Association has been recognized as a leader in both online and blended classroom training.
After years of teaching and performing emergency medical procedures, it was Mike who needed CPR. After an accident racing offshore powerboats, Mike was saved by a team of well-trained rescuers with only seconds to spare. Since that accident, Mike’s mission has been to make sure everyone has access to learn life-saving skills.
"If what we do helps to save at least 1 life, then we have succeeded..."Mike Figuero
TL;DR Knowing how to recognize a medical emergency can save precious time. This guide explains the warning signs that require an immediate 911 call—including chest pain, stroke symptoms, severe bleeding, choking, difficulty breathing, seizures, and loss of consciousness—and offers practical guidance on what to do while waiting for emergency responders.
TL;DR: While not every employee in a medical office is legally required to be CPR certified, having CPR- and first aid-trained staff is often required by state regulations, accreditation standards, employer policies, or professional licensing rules. Medical practices also have an ethical—and sometimes legal—duty to respond to emergencies involving patients and visitors, making CPR certification an important part of providing … read more
A well-stocked first aid kit in 2026 should include wound care supplies, gloves, burn treatments, common medications, emergency tools, and household-specific items. Regular maintenance, updated emergency information, and preparedness for local disasters can help you respond quickly and effectively when emergencies happen.
Overview
Every home should have one, but you hope to never need one: a first aid kit … read more
TL;DR: Outdoor injuries can happen fast, but knowing basic first aid can make all the difference on the trail. From cuts and sprains to dehydration and heat exhaustion, being prepared with the right gear and knowledge helps you stay safe, respond quickly, and keep minor injuries from becoming serious emergencies.
Being outdoors is freeing, but trails, campsites, and shorelines bring … read more
TL;DR: Common mistakes made while providing First Aid can be life-threatening. This guide will provide the top 5 most common mistakes and what to do to avoid them.
Mistakes that hinder burn recovery
Causing additional injury or death to someone with a spinal or cervical injury.
Common mistakes that prevent you from getting severe bleeding under control.
TL;DR: Paradoxical breathing is a serious and abnormal breathing pattern that signals potential respiratory distress. This blog explains what it is, how to recognize it, and what treatments may help.
Definition: Paradoxical breathing occurs when the chest contracts during inhalation, instead of expanding.
Symptoms: Look for chest wall movement abnormalities, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.