BLS Certification in Chicago

Whether you're training to become a first responder or you're already a medical professional, our Chicago BLS certification classes can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to provide care during times of crisis. Taught by local experts in the industry who understand the challenges your community faces, our BLS classes can help you learn how to deliver basic life support in a wide range of scenarios.

In Chicago, BLS certification classes from the American Red Cross are available in two formats: in person, and via our blended Simulation Learning experience. In-person classes are held in a traditional classroom setting – with an instructor and classmates, and the hands-on skills session immediately follows. Simulation Learning, however, allows you to receive the same "lecture" material, but in an online environment – so you can spend time with the information and synthesize it in your own way. Once complete, you can schedule your in-person skills session, where you'll learn proper techniques and have the opportunity to prove your skills to a licensed instructor. After successfully completing both sections of the course, you'll receive full certification. For more information or to book your BLS class, check our newest schedule.

Basic Life Support classes may include CPR, first aid and AED training, but they go far beyond what classes for the general public include, and focus on a number of subjects that first responders and healthcare providers need to know. Instead of simple how-to instructions, we use a scenario-based approach that allows class participants to respond to calls for care as they might experience them in the "real world" – where they'd be required to evaluate scene safety, work as a team, and understand the legal implications of their actions. To provide course participants with the best BLS training possible, all of our class materials are consistent with AHA Guidelines for CPR/ECC, cover care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, and deliver training in CPR, AED, and obstructed airways for adults, children, and infant patients. To sign up for one of our BLS classes in Chicago, check our updated schedule.

If your BLS credentials are currently valid, or within 30 days of expiring, you can enroll in one of our Chicago BLS renewal classes and, after successful completion, extend your certification by two years. All of our renewal courses are abbreviated (when compared to our initial certification courses), and give you the latest information on providing patient care that can improve outcomes. With science-based information and world-class instructors, a lecture and skills session, you can update your knowledge, improve your skills, and continue helping those in need. Find a BLS recertification class in your area.

If you have several team members who need BLS training in Chicago, you can schedule a group class with the Red Cross and allow everyone to train together. This way, everyone will get the training they need, and they can work together – building trust and relationships throughout class. Additionally, we can customize your program to fit your specific needs, include your local protocols and cover your organization's unique guidelines and principles. For details on our personalized group training opportunities, visit https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/train-my-employees.

In addition to offering Chicago BLS certification from world-class instructors, the Red Cross offers a wide range of courses that can help you develop as a person – and as a professional. With CEUs in Preparedness and Health and Safety Services, including wilderness and remote first aid, plus classes in swimming, swim coaching, water safety, and more, we can help you gain the skills and confidence needed to reach your goals and become a more well-rounded person.