The American Red Cross of Central Texas recently announced the launch of the next generation of Red Cross health and safety training, featuring a two-year certification for first aid and CPR training, and other cost and time saving benefits for course takers and instructors.

The first program in the series is the First Aid/CPR/AED program released on March 31, 2011. This program trains individuals in workplaces and communities to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illness until advanced medical personnel arrives. The program incorporates the latest science, meets OSHA guidelines and now offers: 2-year certification with free digital refreshers; Choice of free digital or affordable print course materials; Concise, learner-centered course offering more hands-on skill practice; An online learning center that allows individuals to register for courses and instructors to manage course records and print certificates.

Training is available through a variety of flexible delivery options, including classroom, online and blended learning options. The Red Cross offers organizations the choice to train their employees onsite, at a Red Cross chapter, or through a train-the-trainer model, and can provide large organizations with multiple locations a standardized nationwide training option. As always, the training offers continuing education credits.

“We believe that the new First Aid/CPR/AED program provides our customers with a better, more interactive training experience, along with greater value and convenience ,” said Denise Blok, Senior Director of Business Operations of the American Red Cross of Central Texas.

“In addition, we think participants will enjoy the new courses because they emphasize hands-on skills practice,” said Blok. “So when people complete their training, they truly feel confident in their skills to save a life.”

A recent Red Cross survey shows that one in every four people say they have been in a situation where someone needed CPR. “Getting trained in CPR and first aid skills is important for everybody,” said Blok. “You never know when you might need to respond to an emergency, so being prepared is key. Nobody can help you do that better than the Red Cross.”

Optional training covering the use of asthma inhalers, epinephrine auto-injectors and manufactured tourniquets as well as Bloodborne Pathogens Training are also available.

The next generation of Red Cross training will expand throughout 2011 with the release of additional training programs including CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and Health Care Providers, Emergency Medical Response and Lifeguarding.

To find out how to schedule group training, contact the American Red Cross of Central Texas at ( 512) 928- 4271 or visit centex.redcross.org for more information. Individuals who need training may visit redcross.org/ training and register online.