Where to learn CPR in Tulsa and why it's important

Summer brings relaxation and fun, but it can also be a time of increased risk for people's hearts.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), knowing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) could be the key to saving someone's life.

Out-of-Hospital Emergencies

Statistics from the AHA show that each year, more than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in the United States, and fewer than half get immediate help before professional help arrives.

Summer Increases the Risk

June is recognized as CPR Awareness Month because it is the kickoff to summer. Water-related activities like swimming and boating increase, which means so do the chances of drownings. In the United States, about 33 drownings occur each day, and 1/3 of those are fatal. The summer's extreme heat can also increase incidents of cardiac arrest.

Back to the Basics

The YMCA of Greater Tulsa requires all of its lifeguards to go through CPR, AED, and First-Aid training. Aquatics Director, Skye Shepherd, shared a few of the basics when responding to a drowning in this step-by-step video:

1. Check if the victim is breathing
2. Breathe twice into the victim's mouth
3. Call 9-1-1
4. Get the AED
5. Do chest compressions on the victim until professional care arrives

Where to Learn CPR Training

There are several places in Green Country that offer CPR Training. The American Red Cross and the American Heart Association both offer in-person and online training courses.

The Broken Arrow Fire Department also offers free monthly hands-only CPR classes. They are one hour long and are intended for people who want to learn CPR but do not need the certification to meet a job requirement.

Group courses are available through the YMCA of Greater Tulsa. Any organizations or businesses interested in signing up can email info@ymcatulsa.org.