Utah Red Cross encourages CPR training this Valentine’s Day

SALT LAKE CITY — The American Red Cross of Utah has invited community members to take part in CPR training this Valentine’s Day. 

“This isn’t the Valentine gift of flowers, candy, or a ‘date night,’ but taking one of our classes or giving them as a gift shows care and compassion,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, the executive director of the American Red Cross of The Greater Salt Lake Area.

According to the press release, the Red Cross offers online and in-person CPR certification courses. Participants can receive traditional training or hands-only training. 

Both methods are equally effective in an emergency, per the American Heart Association.

While training is not required to administer CPR, the AHA said that those who receive training are more likely to perform higher-quality chest compressions. 

In addition to CPR training and certification, the Red Cross offers AED, lifeguarding, and first aid training. According to their website, the courses are offered in online and in-person formats, depending on the selected class. 

The press release said that the Red Cross has presentations available for organizations, such as schools, businesses, or church groups.

Additionally, the Red Cross First Aid App contains references for life-saving procedures, such as CPR. It is available on Apple and Android devices. 

Why should you get CPR training? 

According to the American Medical Association, CPR saves lives. However, it could save more if every American knew how to administer it. 

“CPR can double or triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest,” said Dr. Walter Kelley, the medical director for the Rocky Mountain Division of the American Red Cross.

Kelley explained that following the halt of a heart, CPR can keep vital oxygen and blood flowing through the body. 

According to the AMA website, the chances of survival decrease every minute following a heart attack. CPR of any variety can increase the chance of surviving. 

The AHA said that about 350,000 cardiac arrests happen outside of hospitals every year. 70% of them happen at home and 20% happen in public places such as airports or recreation facilities. 

“Survival depends on immediately receiving CPR from someone nearby,” read the website. If more people are trained, the survival rate of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest could increase. 

“Keeping blood flow active–even partially–extends the opportunity for a successful resuscitation once trained medical staff arrive on site,” said Kelley. 

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