Learn CPR for Free: Life-Saving Events in Cornwall and Across the South West

It’s never too early to pick up a new skill, especially one that could save a life. South Western Ambulance Service is offering free CPR training across the South West as part of Restart a Heart Day 2024, a national event dedicated to teaching the community life-saving skills.

What is Restart a Heart Day?

Restart a Heart Day is an annual event taking place on Wednesday, 16th October 2024. The day is designed to raise awareness and teach people the vital skill of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). This year, South Western Ambulance Service is hosting several free training sessions across the region, including in Cornwall.

Why Learning CPR Matters

Every second counts when someone experiences a cardiac arrest. Immediate CPR can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival. Most cardiac arrests happen at home, so learning this essential skill could help save the life of a loved one.

Cardiac arrest is caused by an electrical issue in the heart that stops it from pumping blood around the body and brain. Without CPR, the person will die within minutes. By performing chest compressions and rescue breaths, you can keep blood and oxygen flowing through the body until emergency services arrive.

Statistics show that 80% of cardiac arrests happen in the home, and every minute without CPR reduces the chance of survival by 10%.

Where to Attend CPR Training

Free CPR training sessions will be held at various locations across the South West, including:

• Cornwall Services, A30, Victoria, Saint Austell PL26 8UF, 10am – 4pm, Saturday 19th October
• Gloucester Quays Shopping Centre, St Ann Way, Gloucester GL1 5SH, 10am – 3pm, Sunday 13th October
• Dolphin Shopping Centre, 110 Dolphin Centre, Poole BH15 1SZ, 9am – 4pm, Wednesday 16th October
• Cabot Circus, Bond Street, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3BD, 10am – 3pm, Saturday 19th October
• Brunel Centre Shopping Centre, 29a Canal Walk, Swindon SN1 1LF, 10am – 3pm, Saturday 19th October

No booking is required for any of these events, so anyone can just turn up on the day.

What to Expect at the Event

• Free CPR Training: Hands-on sessions led by experienced staff
• Interactive Demonstrations: Watch CPR demonstrations and practice the skills
• Educational Resources: Learn more about cardiac arrest and how to use an AED

How to Get Involved

To find out more about the Restart a Heart Day events, including the sessions near you, visit South Western Ambulance Service’s page. You can also help spread the word by sharing the event on social media and encouraging friends and family to attend.

Learning CPR is simple but can make a massive difference when it comes to saving a life. Don’t miss this chance to learn this life-saving skill for free!