Why I’m Learning CPR (Again)

FP 2 StepsThis Friday morning I’m going to be busy taking a CPR course—again. I’ve already taken CPR at least 10 times since it was a requirement of all aerobic instructors. (For those that don’t know, I taught aerobic for years and it helped pay for my first graduate degree).

But it’s been a while, and I’m ready to refresh my skills. Here’s what I’ll be doing, how you can participate too, and why we should all spend a few hours taking a CPR course:

What: CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a procedure that aims to restore airways, breathing and circulation of a person through a series of rescue breathing and chest compressions. These techniques can be helpful if someone has a heart attack or is drowning.

Why: While no one wants to do CPR, there’s not always a choice. Even if your skills are a bit rusty, you have to try—a person’s life might depend upon it. Even if there’s only a slight chance you’ll use these skills, it’s better to be prepared to do your part.

Who: Any of us may be pushed into action at any time. I’m taking the class again because I want to be able to save my young nieces and nephews, or my mother, or a friend. Anyone who might be suffering right in front of me. Simply, I couldn’t stand by and do nothing if I could in fact do something.

Even if my skills aren’t 100% perfect, I’m going to re-take the class and try to remember. And I’m not alone. Each year, an average of 9 million people take emergency training classes from the American Red Cross – Right on!

Did you know that CPR isn’t just for people? You can also take a class that teaches you how to perform CPR on your pets. Fido and Fluffy can be saved too!

Where: CPR classes are offered throughout the United States. Here’s a link where you can type in your zip code and find a class right in your neighborhood: http://www.redcross.org/take-a-class

In fact, you don’t even need to leave your home. Online classes that you can take on your home computer are only $30. Bargain of the year!

How: Here’s a quick 1-minute video that gives a Cliff’s Notes version of CPR (to be used on adults and children, but not newborns). This shouldn’t be a substitute for a certified class, just a little sneak peek at what you’ll learn.

Can’t see the video? Click on this link: CPR Demonstration

Inspired to take a class? I hope so! You never know when CPR can save the life of a loved one.

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This entry was posted on Thursday, March 13th, 2014 and is filed under Erin Right Now.

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