WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (May 29, 2008)- Learning CPR and how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can mean the difference between life and death for someone suffering from Sudden Cardiac Arrest or other medical emergency. During the week of June 1 - June 7, the American Red Cross Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter will be offering lifesaving training as part of the first National CPR/AED Awareness Week. The Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter encourages everyone to learn these important skills that could someday save a life.

"The Red Cross wants the public to know that everyone has the power to save a life. At least one person in every household and on every office floor should be trained and certified in first aid and CPR/AED," says Linda Olson, Director of Safety Education for the Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter. "On average, it takes emergency personnel 10 minutes to arrive on scene. For someone who is choking or has stopped breathing, that may be too late. By learning simple rescue skills, you can go from being a helpless bystander to a person with the ability to take control help someone during an emergency."

Help the American Red Cross Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter accomplish a nationwide goal of reaching 250,000 people with lifesaving information during this week. The following CPR/AED training and awareness events open to the public during CPR/AED Awareness Week.

The Red Cross also offers online CPR/First Aid/AED Training, please visit our website, www.redcross-pbc.org for more information and to register. If you can not attend this event, find out how you can have the power to save a life, contact the American Red Cross Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter at 561-833-7711 for details on a variety of health and safety courses offered throughout the year.

About the American Red Cross:
For over 90 years, the American Red Cross Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter, which includes Glades, Hendry, Okeechobee and Palm Beach Counties, has provided relief to victims of disasters at home and abroad, teaches lifesaving skills, and supports military members and families. The American Red Cross, a charity and not a government agency, depends on voluntary contributions of time and money to perform its humanitarian mission. To learn more about the work of the Red Cross in communities, or to make a donation, please call 561-833-7711 or visit our website at www.redcross-pbc.org.

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