News release
For immediate release
The Esquimalt Fire Department has given public education a COVID-friendly spin while keeping connected with the community.
Starting April 21, the fire department is launching a hands-only CPR training opportunity for individuals, families, and households. Registrants will book a dedicated time to receive a CPR mannequin and live training session from an Esquimalt Fire Department member.
“Public education, especially when it comes to safety skills, remains a priority, even during COVID,” said Esquimalt Mayor Barbara Desjardins. “I’m proud of our fire department for thinking creatively and finding a way to continue their work while respecting health guidelines.”
Hands-only CPR is an important skill that provides aid in the event of a cardiac arrest. It is intended as a way for a bystander to keep crucial oxygenated blood flowing through an unresponsive person’s system until trained medical help arrives.
“This program will provide the basic skills to save a person’s life if they experience a heart attack at work, home or in our township,” said Esquimalt Fire Chief Chris Jancowski. “We want to empower our community to have the confidence and knowledge to potentially save a loved one or bystander."
Register online
The session will discuss personal safety, common CPR questions and compression techniques. Registrants will get a sense of the experience with the help of the CPR mannequin and be able to ask questions in real time.
The training will be booked in advance and the session will be held over Zoom. Prior to the session, registrants can pick up a sanitized mannequin and course materials. Registrants will then return the mannequin to be sanitized for the next session.
The hour-long sessions are currently being offered seven days a week at either 3:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. These times may shift in response to demand as the program evolves.
Registration for online (Zoom) hands-only CPR is offered seven days week.
Interested residents can register online. This training is not for certification and intended for teens and adults.
More information about registration at Esquimalt.ca/cpr
-30-
Contact
Tara Zajac
Manager of Communications
250-475-7122