Press release from the City of Fort Wayne:
Don’t miss out, register now for “Don’t Miss a Beat”
May 8: Free CPR training, public safety demonstrations, Red Cross blood drive
The City of Fort Wayne continues to accept registrations for the May 8 free, hands-only CPR training as part of “Don’t Miss a Beat.” All training will take place at the Regional Public Safety Academy, 7602 Patriot Crossing.
Taught by certified instructors, five separate sessions will be held with classes starting at 9, 9:30, 10, 10:30 and 11 that morning.
Online registration is available at www.3rcpr.org or call 427-1164 to sign up for the hour-long, non-certified training class. On-site registrations will also be accepted that day.
“Don’t Miss a Beat” will train anyone ages 12 and older in how to give effective chest compressions to adults who have suffered a heart attack or other cardiac emergency. The training uses manikins or special kits. Everyone attending will receive a free CPR practice kit with a training DVD to take home.
Compression or hands-only CPR focuses on chest compressions only, no breaths, to keep blood moving in an adult victim whose heart has stopped beating. It has become increasingly popular in recent years as research has shown the technique to be effective in helping to save lives.
The City and Three Rivers Ambulance Authority, American Red Cross, Focus on Health, Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health, Parkview Health and Lutheran Health Network make up the Three Rivers CPR Task Force and offer this free non-certified training. Since starting in October 2008, the program has trained more than 700 people.
In addition to the training, the American Red Cross will have a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Public Safety Academy. To schedule a blood donation appointment, call (800) GIVE-LIFE or check the box on the online class registration form.
Local public safety agencies will also offer demonstrations at the academy that day.
The Fort Wayne Police Department will have demonstrations of its voice stress analysis equipment plus tours of the firing range, and firearms and driving simulators. The Fort Wayne Fire Department is scheduled to have a fire engine at the Public Safety Academy with the opportunity to ask a firefighter questions and see what equipment is carried on the truck.
Three Rivers Ambulance Authority will have an ambulance available for a tour and the St. Joseph Township Volunteer Fire Department Search and Rescue dogs will be on site.
For more information about “Don’t Miss a Beat” CPR training, call (260) 427-1164 or e-mail 3rcpr@cityoffortwayne.org.