Rutherford County Fire Rescue is offering free "hands only CPR" classes most months now through November. However, there is such a demand that the county's website shows that the the first class with openings is not until July 20, 2019.

Hands-Only CPR is Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation without the mouth-to-mouth breaths. It is recommended for use by people who witness a teen or adult suddenly collapse in an "out-of-hospital" setting (such as home, work, or in a park). This hands-only technique performed by a bystander has been shown to be as effective as conventional CPR in the first few minutes. Hands-Only CPR will teach the average person basic lifesaving techniques that can be applied until professional help arrives.

These "hands-only CPR" classes will be taught by Captain Paula Todd on designated Saturdays at the Rutherford County Fire Rescue Training Center, 1504 West College Street.

Class Dates 2019 February 9 - Class is Full March 16 - Class is Full April 20 - Class is Full June 15 - Class is Full July 20 - 6 Openings August 3 - 5 Openings November 2 - 15 Openings

For registration and class dates go to : RCFR CPR Class

If you are interested in hosting a class for your group, please send your information to:ptodd@rutherfordcountytn.gov

OVERCOMING FEAR FACTOR

- You can't hurt the victim. Your actions can only help!

- You are legally protected by the Good Samaritan Act.

Starting CPR immediately is one of the most critical factors in whether someone survives. Don't wait until the ambulance arrives. For every minute that passes without CPR, survival decreases by 10%.

SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST CAN HAPPEN to ANYONE, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE

- More than 350,000 Americans die each year from Sudden Cardia Arrest, which is more than lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and AIDS combined.

- It is not just something that only affects elderly or sick people. More than 2,000 young people (under 25) die each year. Many victims appear healthy and have no known risk factors.

- Almost 80% of sudden cardiac arrests happen at home and are witnessed by a loved one. By knowing CPR, you could help save your loved one's life.