If learning first aid or CPR is on a bucket list of important skills to learn for 2020, then the YMCA of Southeast Texas Port Arthur Branch is the perfect place to be.

On Jan. 11 from 8:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the YMCA, certified specialists will be teaching an American Heart Association AED CPR and First Aid Training course through hands-on training, discussions and videos.

Lindsey Rossi, certified trainer for the program and the aquatics and healthy living director, said she believes everyone should know how to respond to and prepare for emergencies.

“It’s important to learn these skills for others to have first-hand knowledge of First Aid & CPR,” she said. “That way, they can be best equipped to handle a variety of situations both big and small.”

CPR AED teaches the basic techniques of adult CPR and use of an automated external defibrillator. Participants also learn how to administer first aid to a choking victim.

“CPR Training will teach you the compressions-to-breathes ratios and skills needed to administer CPR to an adult, child and infant,” Rossi said. “Along with how to use barrier devices, how to recognize if someone is having a heart attack, stroke, cardiac arrest or has a foreign-body airway obstruction.”

First Aid techniques taught will include learning how to care for adults and children by providing in-depth hands on skills for participants.

“Some crucial things taught in the First Aid Training are how to administer an epi pen to someone in anaphylactic shock, how to clean and dress a wound, and what to do if you suspect someone is experiencing heat exhaustion or even a heat stroke,” Rossi said.

According to Rossi, knowing First Aid and CPR is lifesaving knowledge beneficial for everyone to learn.

“Providing CPR can almost triple the chances of survival of a person experiencing a heart attack,” she said. “Becoming certified can give everyone the confidence they need in order to act in emergency situations.”

Certification is valid for two years. The cost of the class is $55 for YMCA members and $60 for non-members. For more information, contact Rossi at lrossi@ymcasetx.org.

To register, visit the link on the YMCA Facebook page. More classes will be available throughout the year, visit ymcasetx.org to stay updated.

“We just want everyone to know the Y has a class for everyone,” Rossi said. “Whether you are just starting to work out or you are a seasoned lifter, we have a class for you. We offer pretty much everything including our indoor pool. The Y welcomes everyone. We are for all!”