3 Easy Tips to Choosing the Right CPR and First Aid Class

[Ayesha Ayoub]

Here are 3 Tips on Choosing the right CPR and First Aid Class for you:

1.) Pick a class with an experienced instructor

2.) Find out what type of certification you need

3.) Ask for testimonials

1.) First off, you need to find out who is teaching the class. How do you find out? Ask! Anyone can go through a certification process and get their CPR instructor certification credential. Has the instructor ever performed CPR? You'd be surprised how many CPR instructors have never even performed CPR. Would you want to learn how to skydive from someone who has never jumped out of an airplane? I didn't think so. Make sure that your instructor has at least done CPR on a real person so that they can teach you what it is you are going to experience.

2.) If you need CPR for work, make sure you ask them exactly what type of certification you need. There are lots of different certifications and you want to make sure you get the right one. Is it a CPR and AED class? If so, do you need to learn just Adult CPR or Child and Infant CPR as well? Make sure you ask what the length of the certification is as well. Some programs only offer 1 year certifications (The Red Cross) while others offer 2 year certs (American Heart Assoc. and American Health and Safety Institute). bls certification philadelphia Many companies charge the same price for a 1 or 2 year CPR certification. Don't be fooled.

3.) Finally, and most important, ask for testimonials. If you're going to be sitting through a 4 hour class it shouldn't be comparable to standing in line at the DMV. Find out if the class is going to be interactive and fun by checking out their testimonials and reviews. If you have to go to class, it might as well be entertaining and informative. Look for words like "no stress" and "low-key." There is a reason why CPR and First Aid classes have negative connotations, but there are good ones out there - if you know how to look!

Zack Zarrilli is a Firefighter and the owner of SureFire CPR. His company is comprised of Firefighters, Paramedics, Lifeguards, and EMTs who teach hundreds of CPR, AED, and First Aid classes every year. SureFire CPR's instructors teach from their own real world experience and specialize in on-site CPR and First Aid training in all of Southern California.