CPR is short for cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and it is a very important skill that everyone should know. Yet more than 65% of the population has never been through the training for it. Many people don't realize just how important it is though until they themselves or someone close to them needs such help. Every parent tries their best to protect their children but if you don't know CPR you are allowing the chance for something bad to happen to them. Anyone you leave your children with should also be certified in the area of CPR.
There are plenty of places that offer CPR classes for free or for a very affordable cost. Check at your local college, your community center, and even at the Red Cross if you have one in your area. Most of the time this will be an all day course or even a two day course. At the end of it you will be certified in the area of CPR.
Look for a CPR program that offers you much more than just a certificate. Find out about the class sizes and the qualifications of the instructions. They are generally medical professionals that want to be able to share this important skill with other people. Find out if you will get a workbook to take home with you as well. Most quality CPR classes though will offer you the chance to practice of mannequins.
It is very important to brush up on your CPR skills from time to time as well. A refresher course can certainly help you to do well when the time comes to use it. CPR can help to save a life in a matter of seconds. You won't have time to second guess your abilities. You also don't want to do more harm than good for the person because you aren't sure of yourself.
Many people have been able to survive choking or another serious issue due to another person effectively administering CPR. Even if medical personnel can arrive in a few minutes it may be too late. If a person has their airway cut off they can die or suffer from brain damage. CPR is an effective tool you can use to help someone to make a full recovery.
