MILWAUKEE -- The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we do everything, but the American Red Cross is still offering important CPR and first aid training classes.
“The issues haven’t gone away, people still come across someone in their family or a stranger who might be choking,” said Justin Kern, Communications Officer for the American Red Cross.
Before students enter the classroom, they are asked health screening questions and have their temperatures taken. But the classes sizes are now half the size of what they normally would be.
“Every person has their own mannequin and we have added a lot of extra cleaning steps,” said Kern.
Along with additional cleaning, every person is required to wear a mask, is spaced out, has their own mannequin, and a portion of the program is offered online.
“Trying to dislodge something when someone is chocking or the wraps for the first aid, people just do that themselves now in the class,” said Kern.
Kern said they are encouraging people who have never taken a CPR or First Aid class to take the training in-person, if they feel comfortable but those need a refresher course, he suggests the online classes.
"I’m glad we are still able to offer them even with everything with the pandemic," said Kern.
Kern said despite social distancing and all of the COVID-19 changes, this information is still important to get out to the public in case the unthinkable life or death scenario happens.
“We want to make sure people are still trained and able to answer the call if they feel compelled to and trained up to do so,” said Kern.
Kern encourages people to download the American Red Cross App to learn more about CPR and First Aid training. For more information on classes, click here.