June 1-7 is National CPR and AED Awareness Week. The American Red Cross stresses that every second count in cardiac arrest and people can save lives by knowing how to perform CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED).

Train for the moments that matter. Whether you are a healthcare worker, a workplace responder, or a member of the public, the Red Cross offers a variety of online, blended (online content with in-class skills session) and instructor-led classroom courses, all compliant with public health guidance. Several Red Cross training courses satisfy requirements set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (first aid, CPR and AED training) and The Joint Commission (resuscitation education). Check with your employer as to what class you need if you are taking training to fulfill a job requirement.

Train safely, effectively and confidently. The health and safety of course participants and instructors are always our top priority. While work environments have been altered by the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to be prepared to respond to emergencies, and to ensure the health and safety of others, has not. We continue to support the need for training in resuscitation, CPR and First Aid with remote-friendly training solutions and easy access to on-demand learning. Social distancing approaches and virtual training options follow public health guidance.

National Drowning prevention week (June 12-19) aims to help everybody across the world to #BeALifesaver and take charge of their own destiny to enjoy the water, safely.

Knowing the ABCs of water safety is a MUST: Adult supervision, Barriers between children and water, and Classes in CPR for adults and swim lessons for children.

Early use of BLS by a rescuer on site is crucial for the survival of victims of drowning. Knowledge of BLS measures by ordinary citizens as well as continuous education of health professionals regarding modern techniques of CPR is crucial for increasing the number of patients surviving after the accident.