On March 27, American Red Cross is hosting a massive CPR training at the City of Marathon Fire Station #14 (airport) on U.S. Highway 1 in Marathon. The “CPR-A-Thon in Marathon” will have several trainers available, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., to enable dozens of people to be trained all in one day, in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. The cost is reduced to $25 each.

More than 300,000 Americans suffer from Sudden Cardiac Arrest each year.  Being able to perform CPR or use an AED early on is crucial in preventing brain damage and will greatly increase a victim’s odds for survival. Learning CPR/Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can quite possibly mean the difference between life and death for someone suffering from Sudden Cardiac Arrest or other medical emergency.  The American Red Cross advises that being able to administer CPR/AED during the first few minutes of a medical emergency is crucial to the survival and recovery of a victim. Having these skills allows you to become a vital first responder when help is needed, on a sports field, on a boating trip, or in your home.

CPR/AED is commonly taught to everyday people who may be the only ones able to respond during the crucial first few minutes of an accident or medical emergency, frequently for their family members, co-workers and friends. Nearly everyone is capable of learning and becoming certified in CPR/AED.  Becoming trained and certified in CPR/AED gives the average person the knowledge and skills essential to lessen the effect of injury or sudden illness and helps sustain life until professional responders arrive.

The most effective way to learn CPR/AED is to participate in hands-on training courses taught by a certified Red Cross instructor.  While quick-overview videos and courses help you to become familiar with safety training; attending certification courses under the supervision of a qualified instructor is the best way to obtain the skills and confidence needed to successfully perform CPR/AED.  And, in order to remain confident and keep skills current, it is recommended that you attend refresher courses and be re-certified yearly.  

“The Red Cross wants the public to know that everyone has the power to save a life. At least one person in every household and in every office should be trained and certified in first aid and CPR/AED,” said Sam Tidwell, CEO of the Greater Miami & The Keys Red Cross chapter. “On average, it takes emergency personnel several minutes to arrive on scene. For someone who is choking or has stopped breathing that may be too late. By learning simple rescue skills, you can go from a helpless bystander to a person with the ability to take control to help someone during an emergency.”

To find out how you can have the power to save a life, contact the Red Cross at 296-4033 or 852-9612 and register today. Or visit click here for more information on the variety of health and safety courses being offered.