Learning proper CPR can help make you a lifesaver instead of a helpless bystander 

By Kelli Nesbitt, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator

Some people seem to think life-saving CPR is best left to paramedics, doctors, or others with years of medical training and experience. The truth is that everyone benefits from knowing cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques. 
 
In an emergency medical situation, a quick response is critical. In many cases – especially with a sudden cardiac arrest – bystanders who know CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) can save lives. 
 
More than 300,000 cardiac arrests occur away from hospitals each year, and professional paramedics only treat 6 in 10 victims. Early intervention with CPR or defibrillation can increase survival rates by 60% or more. Knowledgeable bystanders can make the difference between life and death.  

This spring, the Parks & Recreation Department will conduct CPR and AED certification classes to help you recognize emergencies and equip you to handle a variety of first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies. If you pass the course, you’ll receive a digital certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED that’s valid for two years.

We also offer babysitter training and wilderness and remote first aid certification classes. The CPR/AED certification classes and the babysitter training cost are $75, and the wilderness/remote first aid classes are $150. 

Registration for all classes is required at rectrac.cstx.gov.

Here’s the schedule:

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American Red Cross CPR, First Aid, AED Certification: Blended Learning  
Southwood Community Center >> Participants must be at least 12 years old 
▪ Session I: Thu., Jan. 27 (9-11:30 a.m.) 
▪ Session II: Thu., March 10 (5:30-7:30 p.m.) 

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Babysitter Training & Pediatric CPR  
Southwood Community Center >> Participants must be at least 10 years old 
▪ Thursdays, April 7-28 (5-8 p.m.) 

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Wilderness & Remote First Aid Certification  
Lick Creek Nature Center >> Participants must be at least 14 years old and hold an adult CPR/AED certification 
▪ Sat., April 2 & Sun., April 3 (8 a.m.-5 p.m.) 

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Become a part of the solution by learning to be a lifesaver! For more information, go to cstx.gov/Southwood or cstx.gov/LickCreek.

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