Will County Gazette

The Park Forest Fire Department is set to offer a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) class on May 17 at 9 a.m. This monthly event, held on the third Saturday, provides an opportunity for residents to learn essential life-saving skills. The Basic Life Support (BLS) course will take place at the firehouse located at 156 Indianwood Blvd.

The training aims to teach participants how to perform CPR effectively, use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and provide first aid to individuals of all ages. While tailored for emergency medical services personnel and healthcare professionals, Deputy Fire Chief Mark Cotrano emphasized its importance for everyday citizens.

"Learning these skills can empower community members to respond effectively in emergency situations, potentially saving lives before professional help arrives," said Cotrano. The department promotes the class via social media and the Village's website to encourage participation.

Cotrano highlighted that cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death, with over 350,000 out-of-hospital cases occurring annually in the United States. He stressed that immediate CPR from bystanders can significantly improve survival chances.

Almost 90 percent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims do not survive; however, early CPR intervention can double or triple survival odds. Community members interested in attending can register for $65. Registration is required due to limited availability. Those unable to attend on May 17 have another opportunity on July 19.