Learn to be a lifesaver with free CPR sessions in Merseyside

When a person has a cardiac arrest, there are a few vital minutes to save them and you cold be be that lifesaver with this free session.

Anyone can save a life, you just need a few simple skills and North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) has teamed up with BBC Radio Merseyside and Merseytravel to help the people of Merseyside learn these by offering free CPR sessions throughout February.

The campaign aims to train hundreds of ‘Mersey Heartbeats’ with simple one hour sessions taking place three times a day at various locations across Merseyside over a four week period from today, Monday 4 February, all of which are completely free.

Professionals from NWAS will talk you through exactly what to do in the event of a cardiac arrest, including how to do CPR and use a defibrillator.

Robert Hussey, Community Resuscitation Manager for North West Ambulance Service said: “Every single second counts in the event of a cardiac arrest as chances of survival are reduced by 10 per cent with each passing minute which is why it’s so important that members of the public are able to step in and begin life-saving CPR even before we arrive on scene.

“NWAS is passionate about making people aware of these simple skills that save lives and we’re really pleased to be linking up with BBC Radio Merseyside and our other partners on this campaign to give free CPR training to hundreds of people across Merseyside.

“The aim of the training sessions is for more people to feel confident enough to step in and help when the worst does happen which will ultimately save lives.”

In the event of a cardiac arrest, it is important to dial 999 as soon as possible and our emergency medical dispatchers will give all the necessary instructions. They will also advise if there is a defibrillator nearby and how to access it.

The sessions, which are led by healthcare professionals, explain the basic concepts of CPR and defibrillation giving attendees the opportunity to practice their skills on specialist manikins.