Red Cross offers AED training

Date: 2/23/2009

Learning CPR and how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can quite possibly mean the difference between life and death for someone suffering from Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

Sudden cardiac arrest claims the lives of more than 166,000 people in this country every year. Ninety-four percent of people who suffer sudden cardiac arrest die before reaching a hospital. If ordinary people act immediately with CPR and use an AED, instead of just waiting for help to arrive, many thousands of lives can be saved every year.

American Red Cross training in CPR and proper use of an AED can provide people with the knowledge and confidence to respond during an emergency situation with skills that can help save a life. Red Cross recommends that at least one person in every household and place of business receive this training.

Each course combines lecture, demonstration, video, hands-on skills training and practice. Upon successful completion, participants earn an American Red Cross course completion certificate, the emergency training credential accepted by OSHA and public safety agencies nationwide.

The following upcoming CPR/AED training is open to the public:

March 2: CPR/AED for adults from 5:30 to 10 p.m. at 125 State St., Northampton. Cost is $60 per person (Pre-registration Required).

March 9: CPR/AED for adults from 6 to 10 p.m. at 506 Cottage St., Springfield. Cost is $60 per person (Pre-registration Required).

To register, contact the Pioneer Valley Chapter at 737-4306 or visit www.redcrosspioneervalley.org.

Trainings are offered on an ongoing basis at a variety of convenient times. Check the website regularly for class schedules or call the Chapter for additional details.