Our new Friends and Family CPR training class is up and running full out. This program was started to train Columbia County residents in CPR techniques. There are three instructors; Linda Bickel, RN, David Bickel, Lt. with the CCFR and Cody Bertram, Firefighter with the CCFR. These three donate their time to train citizens in CPR once a month.

While the first classes were held at the Ft. White Community Education Center (located behind the Ft. White Fire Station). We have had several other classes at the Lake Shore Hospital Administrative Complex's classroom. The classes continue to be a rousing success. Students learn Adult and Pediatric CPR, choking relief and scene security. Using mannikins, a CPR breathing mask and AED (automatic external defribilator) trainers, they learn proper CPR techniques with and without the masks. They also learn different methods of helping a choking victim, the differences between adult, children 1-8 year of age and then pediatric emergency scenarios, and making sure the scene is safe to work in based on different scenarios.

Scenarios range from electrical power lines down, person down in traffic, baby choking at home, child down in the park, etc. Questions are taken from the students and the instructors are very thorough in answering, making sure the person totally understands all possible options.

The instructors stated they give their time because they want the unresponsive patient to have the best chance of survival. With our rural area, brain damage may have already started by the time first responders can get to the scene. If someone on scene was aware of CPR and would start that as soon as the patient went down, odds are the patient would have a better chance of survival. They said they give their time so that one life might be saved.

We applaud their efforts and appreciate their time. We hope that every citizen will take advantage of these free classes. As soon as we are aware of the date and location of the next class we will put it as the last sentence in this article. Please check our website frequently for news updates and training possibilities.

For questions or to sign up please call Lt. Bickel at 386.288.7408

MONTHLY TRAINING

Training is conducted at various locations on the last Tuesday of every month. Please check with the department administration to get details on this months training and the location.

 

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