Over 3000 local students trained in hands-only CPR

Marine Rescue Lieutenant Jeremy Robshaw informed Historic City News reporters in St Johns County that being trained in hands-only CPR can make the difference when someone suffers sudden cardiac arrest — and this year, over 3000 local students have been taught the lifesaving procedure.

In late 2012, St Johns County Fire Rescue began a project whose goal was to teach every graduating senior “hands-only CPR” and how to use an automated external defibrillator.

“This month we were able to complete this project with help from the St Johns County School District and the American Heart Association,” Robshaw told Historic City News. “Each of these students has the skills and knowledge to initiate the 911 system and begin the process needed to save a life; using hands-only CPR and an automated external defibrillator.”

Participants in the 45-minute program received a booklet about the techniques they learned, so that they could go home and share their newfound knowledge with friends and family. The training material was generously donated by the St Augustine Rotary Club.

“It took a great working relationship between school administration, teachers and many volunteer instructors to make this training a success,” Robshaw said. “Without dedicated volunteers, this program would not have been possible.”

Robshaw added that the volunteer instructors are employees of St Johns County Fire Rescue, St Augustine City Fire Department, St Johns County Sheriff’s Office, Orange Park Medical Center, and SafetyNet.