Free CPR, Defibrillator Classes on 'Super CPR Saturday' in Johns Creek

Johns Creek's "Super CPR Saturday" will return May 11, offering local residents and business owners free, basic lifesaving classes in how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and how to use an automated external defibrillator, according to a recent city press release.

Statistics show that bystander-initiated CPR increases heart attack survival rates. In Johns Creek, the survival rate was 50 percent in 2012. The national average is 32 percent.

“That 50 percent speaks to our community outreach,” said Chris Coons, Johns Creek Fire Department Training Chief. “More and more people are participating in these classes and learning CPR. They’re helping save lives.”

The classes, part of the city's Heart Ready program, are taught by Johns Creek firefighters and paramedics at 9 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. at Fire Station #62, 10925 Rogers Circle, which is adjacent to Shakerag Elementary School.

In 2012, more than 200 people participated in the CPR classes in Johns Creek. The certification classes are based on American Heart Association's "Heartsaver" and are most appropriate for ages 12 and older.

Reservations for the CPR classes are required and can be made by calling 678-512-3221 or emailing Thomas.Johnson@johnscreekga.gov.