You’ve chosen to take a course in first aid and CPR BCLS certification. It’s a wonderful choice. You’ve probably been in an awkward situation when someone collapses, and the whole room becomes a herd of deer snared in headlights. Yes, you do not want to be the person who collapses suddenly and everyone around becomes a deer caught in headlights. You won’t become a superhero by learning these skills, but you will feel like a hero every now and again.

Imagine you’re at the family barbecue. Your uncle Fred chokes a piece steak. Everyone panics as they try to remember to dial 911 on their phones. This is your cue. When you use your Heimlich skills, bam! You’ve ejected the steak, saved uncle, and made the crowd go wild. Although they may not be wild, they will certainly be grateful.

Here’s a breakdown. First aid classes teach you how to manage emergencies before professional assistance arrives. First Aid skills include how to clean and bandage wounds, as well dealing with fractures. They aren’t only for doctors. If you know how to treat a child’s scratched knee, or a grown-up’s ankle sprain, then you can help them.

CPR is your secret weapon. Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere at anytime. You’ve probably seen those chest compressions on television. It’s not as easy as it looks. It makes all the different to get trained. You can maintain blood circulation to vital organs up until the arrival of the cavalry.

Do not worry, you will not be thrown in the deep end if you don’t have a floatie. Trainers break it down into bite sized pieces. The trainers will guide you step by step and make sure you have mastered each section before moving forward. You can practice with dummies, and not your classmates. When adrenaline is pumping, nothing beats muscle memory.

It’s not all common sense. Although basic knowledge can be helpful, certain situations will require specific actions. You can’t just wing it when it comes to knowing how to handle spinal injuries or apply a Tourniquet. Myths are everywhere–remember when someone tipped a victim with a choking head back? Wrong move. It’s a no-no to tilt your head when choking someone.

We can talk about confidence. You’ll gain a lot of confidence by completing these courses. It is liberating to know that you are capable of making a difference. Imagine strutting down the street knowing that you could save someone’s life if necessary.

These skills will also look good on your resume. Employers like to see applicants who have first aid and CPR certificates. It shows that you care about other people’s well-being, are responsible and proactive. This training can be a great asset to anyone in the office, in childcare, in fitness, in construction or in any other field.

You’ll be surprised to find that these courses are more engaging and enjoyable than you thought. You won’t hear any boring lectures. Expect lively discussion, group activities and hands-on practices. Maybe you’ll make a few new friends. People tend to bond over shared experiences, especially if you are all learning something important.

The cost of these courses is very affordable. Your investment in learning CPR and first aid can save many lives. Many training centers, colleges and employers offer these courses. There are some courses that require a fee. However, there are many free ones available.

The best thing about these classes? Everyone can take them. There are no requirements for age or skills. Only a keen intellect and a willingness to learn are required. Everyone can enroll, whether they are teenagers or retirees. They will be better prepared to deal with the unpredictability of life.

What are you still waiting for? Sign up today and be the person you can turn to when things go awry. This is a practical, valuable resource that could make you a hero.