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Learn CPR so that you can save a life if you have to

Save a Life September is a Red Cross campaign that turns compassion into action so that our communities are ready and prepared for disasters; in an emergency, there are always trained people nearby, ready to use their Red Cross skills to save lives.

This month, I interviewed a local CPR expert, Ryan Wirth, with Hearts-On, about the important role he plays in educating others to save lives.

Colleen: Tell us a little about yourself and Hearts-On.

Ryan: I graduated from Fort Lewis in 2012 with a communications degree, after which I moved to Switzerland to participate in professional trials for soccer. After not quite measuring up, I moved back to Durango to teach with Hearts-On (which at the time was my mother Robin’s company). Within six months of teaching, I procured the company from her. Hearts-On currently consists of myself, Robin Duffy-Wirth (mom), and Shannon Wirth (sister) as instructors, with Fredi, our dad, helping out with marketing behind the scenes.

Colleen: Why should I take one your classes offered through Hearts-On?

Ryan: Hearts-On is hands-on. We firmly believe information is retained best by physically going through the actions. We have the latest technology in CPR mannequins and a high-energy, passionate staff that will keep you engaged. Many other instructors turn on the video, dim the lights, and wake you up four hours later. Hearts-On is different; we tailor the information to make it more relatable with each specific audience, so that you can recall the information when it’s needed.

Colleen: The compression-to-breaths ratio has changed over the years. What is currently advised by the American Red Cross?

Ryan: Adult, child and infant CPR is 30 compressions to two breaths. When I’ve been asked why it has changed so much over the years, I always equate it to the construction industry: if we were doing the same thing today that we were doing 20 years ago, we’d be worse off. Every five years, the American Red Cross conducts research to see what’s most effective for the victim and easiest for the responder.

Colleen: In addition to CPR/First Aid/AED training, what other classes are locally available through Hearts-On?

Ryan: Bloodborne Pathogens and American Red Cross Babysitting Certification, which is taught by babysitter veteran and Hearts-On instructor Shannon Wirth.

Colleen: Who can I contact to find out more information about classes offered, availability, dates, time, prices, etc?

Ryan: You can contact Ryan Wirth at 946-0876 or via email heartoncpr@hotmail.com. We teach open community classes as well as privatized businesses. Whether you’re new parents or the conscientious business owner Hearts-On has you covered.

Hearts-On is helping to promote Save a Life September here locally in Durango, so be sure your CPR skills are up-to-date by taking a class offered by the Wirth Family.

Colleen Johnson is executive director of the Southwest Colorado chapter of the American Red Cross. Reach her at 259-6642.



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