Learn how to perform hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) during a community training program Saturday, Aug. 4. Knowing how to perform CPR and becoming familiar with AEDs is the best defense against sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), a leading cause of death in the United States among all ages – including young athletes.

The program is being hosted by SSM Heart Institute at St. Clare Health Center, with generous support from Maritz. The program runs from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the hospital’s Conference Center, located on the Garden Level, at 1015 Bowles Avenue in Fenton. From 9 to 10 a.m., Dr. Chris Bauer, an electrophysiologist with SSM Heart Institute, will explain the causes of sudden cardiac arrest, how it is treated and how it differs from heart attack.

Following the presentation, American Red Cross instructors will teach hands-only CPR to the participants. This non-certification program is designed to help people, ages 10 and older, community groups and small businesses prepare for sudden cardiac events. The presentation also will include a demonstration of an AED. Participants will be able to stop by various community resource tables before or after training.

The cost of the training is $5 per person. All attendees will receive a practice tool kit.

Space is limited to 150 participants. To register, call 1-866-SSM-DOCS (1-866-776-3627).

Additional support is being provided by the SSM St. Clare Health Center Foundation, Philips Healthcare and the Gateway Chapter of Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association. Meet members of the chapter who will share their story of survival and explain how having an AED readily accessible saved their life. Visit suddencardiacarrest.org to learn more about the local chapter.