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How to save a life

17 May 2013 | Pfc. Brendan Roethel Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort

Laurel Bay residents learned critical life saving skills during a free American Heart Association CPR class held at the Laurel Bay Community Center sponsored by Atlantic Marine Corps Communities, May 11.

CPR is an emergency procedure used to sustain brain function until blood circulation and breathing is restored, said Colleen Bible, a nursing instructor at the Technical College of the Lowcountry in Beaufort, S.C.

"The CPR class teaches students how to conduct CPR, use an automated external defibrillator, clear airway obstructions and get in contact with emergency medical technicians with victims from infancy to adulthood all while staying calm and relying on their training during the whole process," said Bible. "It’s great, after taking the class and working hard the students will receive a CPR certification card, which in town would cost them about $75."

Taking advantage of opportunities like this is a great way to experience and learn new things while getting out of the house and interacting with fellow members of the tri-command community, said Bible. Another great aspect of these courses is that many of these activities are cheaper than they would be out in town, if not free.

"Many of the students have families and children, and although children have strong hearts anything can happen," said Bible. "That is why it is important to always be ready and prepared. The more people know the greater chance a victim has to survive."