ESCANABA — Access to CPR training is easily accessible and not hard to complete for anyone who is interested. The Northern Lights YMCA wants to be Delta County’s link to providing emergency training to the public through American Red Cross Training programs.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, or CPR, is a lifesaving technique that helps maintain blood flow to the brain and other vital organs in an emergency situation. Recent studies show that less than half of those who suffer from cardiac arrest receive CPR assistance from bystanders. 4 out of 5 cardiac emergencies occur outside of the hospital so it is vital for bystanders to be educated and confident in lifesaving techniques. Should an emergency situation arise, having more than one person trained in CPR can be beneficial to improve effectiveness and reduce responder fatigue. Through formal training, bystanders can learn and develop a lifesaving skill that can last a lifetime.

“Everyone should have access to knowledge of what to do in an emergency,” said Megan Gouin, Aquatics Director, Northern Lights YMCA. “Whether it is knowing how to keep yourself safe by preventing transmission of infectious diseases, or saving the life of your neighbors and fellow community members, CPR training will give the community a sense of confidence to act in the event of an emergency. The worst thing we can do is nothing at all.”

The Northern Lights YMCA offers CPR training courses monthly, with the next course starting Sept. 17 and 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the YMCA Youth Office.

To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate, financial assistance is available to those in need to help cover the costs. For more information, or to register for the course, please visit www.nlymca.com/delta or call us at (906)789-0005.