New program offered in local elementary schools teaches hands-only CPR

New program offered in local elementary schools teaches hands-only CPR
In conjunction with the American Heart Association, the South-Central Kentucky Area Health Education Center (AHEC) is participating in a community outreach program to teach hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to elementary students. “Project Save a Life” is designed to bring awareness to children about CPR and how it can save lives.

Gerita Cook, the coordinator for the Western Kentucky University (WKU) Training Center, will begin visiting area schools this month to provide the hands-only CPR training free of charge to 4th through 6th graders.

Cook shared, “We can effect change and save lives if everyone in our community is equipped with the lifesaving skillset of CPR.”

“We’re excited to begin offering hands-only CPR classes for local 4th through 6th graders. While we hope the students never need to use their CPR skills, we want to make sure they are prepared should a situation arise. We hope that the students take what they learn from the class and share the information with their families and friends,” shared Catherine Malin, Center Director for AHEC.

The WKU CPR Training Center is a division of AHEC and provides high quality CPR and first aid courses to WKU students, faculty, staff, and community members in the Barren River Area Development District. The training center is in affiliation and compliance with the American Heart Association. The AHEC office is housed within the College of Health and Human Services at WKU and is dedicated to promoting healthy communities through an educational pipeline. AHEC works with students, health professionals, and communities to provide resources and programs that lead to healthier communities.

For more information, contact the WKU CPR Training Center at 270-745-3762 or visit here.