What is CPR?
According to the American Heart Association, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is "a combination of rescue breathing and chest compressions delivered to victims thought to be in cardiac arrest." This is particularly important if a swimmer in your pool experiences the symptoms of drowning. When a person stops breathing, for any reason, the administration of CPR may truly make the difference between life and death. (See the American Heart Association's guidelines regarding CPR and drowning).

 

 

Why do YOU need to know CPR?
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is the first, best procedure you can perform when a swimmer in your pool has stopped breathing . Remember, drowning involves the lack of oxygen to the lungs. This affects the heart, the brain, and other vital processes of the body. The first thing you can do is to re-start the breathing process. That means breathing into the mouth or nose of the swimmer and/or compressing the swimmer's chest until breathing is restored. This must be done immediately and continued until the swimmer is breathing again or the emergency medical responder arrives...BUT YOU NEED TO BE TRAINED!

CPR is a technique that is easily learned. It has been shown, time and time again, to be a successful first aid treatment when given correctly. It is my belief that all adults in your home should be currently trained, including any babysitters or relatives you may use to watch your children. To that end, I encourage you to take adult, child and infant CPR training as soon as possible.

If you would like more information about CPR and CPR training, click on the following links:

• CPR Anytime - a self-directed personal learning program from the American Heart Association.
• Learn CPR - a free online CPR course supported by the U. of Washington School of Medicine.
• Pocket First Aid & App - a smartphone app to guide you through the CPR process in an emergency.
• CPR- good information on adult, child and infant CPR from MedlinePlus
• You can even learn CPR for your pet.Click here.

If you want to find CPR training in your area, try this site: ECC Class Connector