Door County Community News: Red Cross Offers AED-only Courses

High visibility professionals have a new requirement for licensing and certifications and the American Red Cross is ready to help meet those needs. “Wisconsin Act 104” requires certain professionals already required to successfully complete cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training to also successfully complete instruction and demonstrate current proficiency in automated external defibrillator (AED) use.

The new regulations affect chiropractors, dentists, dental hygienists, athletic trainers, massage therapists, body-workers, licensed midwives, emergency medical technicians, first responders, day-care center providers, group home, shelter care providers, medical vehicle attendants, and lifeguards at public pools or camps. The law goes so far as to say each fitness center employee must be trained within 90 days of hire. Overall proficiency in AED use applies at the time of initial application for, and renewal of, an occupational license or certificate.

To help companies, organizations and professionals comply with the law, Red Cross Chapters throughout Wisconsin have added “AED-only” courses to assist those impacted by Act 104. Combination CPR/AED courses are currently available throughout the calendar year. The combination course is the typical standard for Red Cross classes.

To find your local chapter and information on health and safety courses visit http://www.redcross.org. Simply type your local zip code in the box on the center of the page under the words “Find the Red Cross Nearest You.”

To learn more about Red Cross programs, volunteer opportunities, and how you can help, contact the Northeast region at 920.231.3590 or http://www.newredcross.org.