Save a Life: How to Become CPR Certified

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Save A Life: How to Become CPR CertifiedSave A Life: How to Become CPR CertifiedBecoming CPR certified can be quick, easy to learn and affordable if you know your options. You never know when someone may need CPR, having the know-how to resuscitate someone in need is a pretty cool feeling. Did you know that sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in the United States? You might be surprised to learn that only about 15-30% of people who experience cardiac arrest receive CPR from a bystander. When questioned, common responses of why a person chose not to perform CPR on someone else is because they had never been trained, were afraid of infection from mouth to mouth on a stranger or were worried they may harm the person in the process of trying. In 2010, guidelines for performing CPR changed to include hands only training which studies show can be just as effective for many adults needing resuscitation as mouth to mouth. May it be a stranger or your own loved one in desperate need of help, there are several options to equip you with the confidence to step in and save a life!

Online CPR Certification

Becoming certified online is pretty simple and you can learn from the comfort of your own home. The drawback to taking the class online is not having the opportunity so practice with a dummy or have an instructor critique your technique. If this concerns you, you may want to opt for a class that you can attend in person. If you feel comfortable with learning online I recommend becoming certified through the Red Cross or the American Heart Association. If you find another site on your own beware of companies who care more about receiving payment than actually teaching you anything.

In-Person Classes Near You

This option is most favorable in my opinion if you are able to leave your home. Many people including myself learn best from hands on experiences. Attending a class near you gives you the opportunity to interact with others, ask questions freely and feel confident that you are performing the techniques correctly by demonstrating in front of a professional. Search online for CPR classes near you by typing in CPR classes and your zip code. Most likely there will be an organization in your community offering courses such as the YMCA, American Red Cross or Medical/Urgent Care facilities.

Free Online Tutorials

If for any reason you cannot attend a class at the moment, there are free tutorials available online. Keep in mind, this does not replace the need to be certified, but it can help you familiarize yourself with the process. If you do watch videos before attending a class, you can start by viewing the different types of CPR techniques and how they vary.

  • Mouth to mouth CPR
  • Hands only CPR
  • Infant CPR
  • Child CPR
  • Adult CPR
  • Pet CPR

Enroll into a class today so you’ll be ready…just in case. If you’re already certified or have performed CPR on someone, tell us about your experience!