How To Get CPR Training For Free?

Table of Contents: 

1. Introduction
2. 7 Ways to Get Free CPR Training
3. Final Thoughts 

Approximately 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals annually in the U.S. However,  only 46% of those affected received immediate CPR from bystanders. The reason? Many bystanders simply don’t know how to perform CPR. Therefore, learning CPR doesn’t just benefit healthcare professionals; it is a skill that everyone should develop to act effectively during emergencies. However, when you don’t have the budget for certification courses, you should look for free CPR training online. 

In this blog, we will discuss the most accessible and reliable options for obtaining CPR certification without paying, including both online and in-person options. 

7 Ways to Get Free CPR Training

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a first aid technique performed in critical situations such as cardiac arrest or drowning. With timely CPR, oxygenated blood can be kept flowing to the brain and other vital organs, increasing a person’s chances of survival. Therefore, having CPR skills is invaluable. These are ideal for healthcare workers, teachers, or concerned individuals. While many CPR courses come at a cost, there are several ways to get free CPR classes online: 

1. Check with Local Health Departments

Your local health department is an excellent resource for free or low-cost CPR training. Many health departments provide community CPR classes, often sponsored by public health initiatives. The primary goal of these programs is to equip as many people as possible with life-saving skills, so fees are often waived for community members.

• Access the Health Department’s Portal: Visit the “Community Services” or “Emergency Preparedness”.
• Call and Inquire: Directly ask about upcoming training sessions. This can sometimes reveal free or discounted opportunities that are not widely advertised.
• Sign up online: Once you find an offering, follow the registration process.

Local governments may prioritize first responders. They also extend training to the general public.

2. Nonprofit Organizations

Several nonprofit organizations offer courses about CPR online for free. While some charge for certification, many also hold free CPR online workshops. These courses provide quality training, usually conducted by certified professionals, and are part of public safety initiatives or community events. The common ways through which nonprofit organizations can help you gain necessary CPR skills for free are as follows: 

• Community Outreach Events: Nonprofit organizations often host free public events to promote CPR awareness. This is particularly done around National CPR and AED Awareness Week (the first week of June). Check their websites for event calendars or social media for announcements.
• Partnerships with Local Schools or Companies: Sometimes, nonprofits collaborate with schools or businesses to offer CPR training. These programs might be free for participants, especially when the training is part of a larger community safety effort.
• Online Classes: CPR Certifications might still have a fee. However, certain organizations offer free CPR classes online to teach the basics of the technique, even without formal certification.

3. Workplace Safety Programs

Many employers prioritize workplace safety and provide free CPR training to employees. This is particularly common in industries where quick emergency responses may be needed, such as healthcare, childcare, hospitality, and construction. Workplace CPR training programs can range from short workshops to comprehensive certification courses. To learn more about such programs, you can follow this approach: 

• Ask HR: Check with your Human Resources department to see if your workplace offers CPR training, especially if your job involves managing safety risks.
• In-House Safety Courses: Many businesses schedule on-site training sessions with certified CPR instructors, and you may be able to participate in one of these.
• Onboarding Benefits: If you’re considering joining a new company, inquire about whether CPR training is included in the employee benefits package. Many companies offer it as part of their onboarding safety training.

4. Schools and Educational Institutions

Schools, universities, and community colleges often host discounted or free CPR and first aid classes for their students, staff, and sometimes even the public. Many educational institutions view CPR as a vital skill. This is especially true in physical education programs, healthcare-related majors, and courses designed for aspiring educators.

• Health and Safety Initiatives: Educational institutions often partner with organizations to offer CPR training. They do so as a part of their health and safety curriculum.
• On-Campus Health Events: Look for campus events, health fairs, or safety awareness days where CPR classes might be offered for free.
• Student Organizations: If you’re a student, joining health-related student organizations or clubs could give you access to free CPR training opportunities.

5. Free Online Resources

While in-person training is the most hands-on way to learn CPR, online resources provide convenient and free training options. They allow you to learn at your own pace. In addition, some websites offer online free CPR courses, providing video tutorials, demonstrations, and step-by-step guides.

• CPR Certification Institute: Offers free online CPR classes for those looking to learn the basics of adult, child, and infant CPR. You can learn the techniques but would need to pay for official certification.
• ProCPR: Provides a free online CPR course that covers CPR procedures and AED use. You can watch video modules and learn the essentials without any fees.
• National CPR Foundation: Offers free online training in CPR, AED, and First Aid. The training itself is free, although you need to pay if you require certification.

6. Community Events and Health Fairs

Another great way to get free CPR training is by attending community health fairs and public safety events. These events often feature free CPR demonstrations and short courses aimed at educating the general public. 

Some organizations will offer free first aid lessons and also set up booths with certified trainers. These trainers will walk attendees through the steps of CPR and give them a chance to practice on mannequins.

• Monitor Local Event Listings: Check online event platforms or your local community centers for upcoming health fairs or public safety days.
• Follow Nonprofit Social Media Pages: Many organizations also regularly post updates related to CPR training and upcoming events on their social media pages.
• City or County Websites: Your city’s official website may provide a list of public health events, including free CPR training sessions.

7. Library and Community Center Programs

Public libraries and community centers frequently host educational events for their communities, including free CPR training. These venues often collaborate with local health departments, fire departments, or nonprofits to provide CPR classes as part of their public service programs.

• Check the Event Calendar: Visit the websites of your local library or community center to see upcoming classes. You can also search for free CPR classes near me. 
• Ask the Staff: The staff at these facilities often know about upcoming public safety classes and can direct you to the right resources.
• Join Community Programs: Some community centers host ongoing safety training programs, where CPR is often a key component. Joining these programs might give you regular access to free CPR training.

Read More: Types of CPR Classes & Their Costs

Final Thoughts 

CPR is a life-saving skill, and there are numerous free CPR training alternatives available. You can find high-quality CPR and first aid courses offered by local health departments, nonprofits, employers, or reputable online platforms. Taking these courses not only equips you with the knowledge to act in an emergency but also instills the confidence to save lives potentially. 

Don’t wait for a crisis to learn – take advantage of the free training options available now and be prepared to step in and save a life when every second counts.

Read More: Difference Between CPR and First Aid