Learn to save a life from the comfort of your home

During the COVID-19 pandemic more people are working, exercising and socialising at home - in response, Surf Life Saving NSW has launched an online CPR training program.

"The risks of someone you know having a cardiac arrest aren't diminished during the coronavirus crisis," said Dan Gaffney, Chief Operating Officer of Surf Life Saving Services.

"In fact, with more people isolating at home, it's even more likely that someone you know will have a cardiac arrest in the home environment.

"We know that around 30,000 people experience cardiac arrest outside hospitals every year and that only an average of nine percent of victims survive.

"Outcomes are vastly improved if someone who knows CPR responds quickly."

The new Living Room Lifesavers CPR training program is delivered by qualified trainers using a combination of e-learning and live virtual classroom instruction using video conferencing technology.

Participants wishing to receive formal accreditation have the option to take a face-to-face, hands-on session after the COVID-19 social distancing requirements are relaxed.

The Living Room Lifesavers program has been designed by Surf Life Saving NSW to cater for people working from home and for families wishing to learn CPR together.

The e-learning component takes about 25 minutes to complete and the live webinar, led by a qualified trainer, takes 60 minutes. The optional, hands-on session takes 90 minutes with participants receiving a HLTAID001 Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification at the conclusion of the program.

Importantly, the Living Room Lifesavers program provides participants with instruction in safer CPR techniques to reduce the chances of COVID-19 infection.

By removing the breaths component of CPR and instead focussing primarily on quality chest compressions, first responders can help someone experiencing cardiac arrest while reducing their risk of contracting COVID-19.