Richland offers monthly hands-only CPR classes starting in January

Starting in January the City of Richland will offer a hands-only CPR class for anyone in the area who wants to learn life-saving measures and more.

With a better understanding of heart attacks and other cardiac arrest issues, first responders have issued new guidance about administering CPR.

"One thing we've learned is that compressions are the most important thing," said Captain Michael Van Beek with the Richland Fire Department. "So, hands-only CPR, pushing on the chest hard and fast, is the most important thing in cardiac arrest."

The city has a goal of training 10% of the city's population on hands-only CPR every year, and they're hosting a free class on the 3rd Thursday of every month starting in January.

To sign up for the class, contact the Richland Community Center at 509-942-7529, or visit the city website at www.ci.richland.wa.us/heartsaferichland.