• AED Certification in Columbia

    An automated external defibrillator (AED) can help you save the life of someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. And when you sign up for one of our Columbia AED certification courses, we can help you learn when, why and how to use an AED in just a few short hours. Find a class in your area, and be prepared to help when it's needed most.

    When you sign up for one of our in-person AED classes in Columbia, you'll not only learn the latest proven science behind AED usage, including how, why, and when to use an AED on an infant, child and adult, but you'll also have access to an experienced instructor who can guide you every step of the way. From answering your questions and leading class discussions to helping you perfect your skills, our patient, knowledgeable, compassionate instructors can help you gain the confidence needed to help during times of crisis. Once completed, our in-person classes will give you full, OSHA-compliant certification that's valid for two years. Find a class in your area and get started.

    Police, firefighters, EMS, nurses and other healthcare professionals have a duty to respond when help is needed – which is why we offer AED classes in Columbia that are designed specifically for professional rescuers and healthcare providers. During these classes, participants will learn how to care for adults, children and infants suffering from breathing and/or cardiac emergencies. Classes are taught by knowledgeable professionals who can talk you through scenarios and share the latest science-based learning. In addition, during the skills session, the instructor will help you perfect your techniques and deliver care that can improve patient outcomes. To sign up for training in your area, check our newest class schedule.

    AEDs give you access to life-saving technology, and our Columbia AED training course can teach you how to use them properly. So, after completing your certification you may wonder if having an AED at home makes sense. After all, they're in most public buildings, airports, shopping malls and other locations – so why shouldn't you have one at home? Well, according to the Mayo Clinic, "if you're at high risk of sudden cardiac death due to a specific heart rhythm problem, your doctor will likely recommend an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) rather than an AED." In addition, at-home AEDs can be expensive, require periodic maintenance, and they aren't usually covered by insurance. Of course, if you happen to live alone or live with someone who isn't able to position you (or themselves) easily for proper usage, then having an AED in your home won't be of help, should you need it. If you do think you'd like to purchase an AED, we recommend that you talk to your doctor about why and what the risks and benefits may be. In the meantime, perhaps simply completing an AED training in Columbia, and knowing where the devices are located in the places you frequent, may be all you need to provide or receive help when necessary.

    The training opportunities available at the Red Cross go far beyond our Columbia AED certification courses. In fact, there's something for everyone – at every age. With babysitting classes for tweens and teens, first aid and CPR courses for teens and adults, and BLS and other training opportunities for medical professionals, we can help you reach your goals at any age.