Gain Lifesaving Skills: Free CPR & NARCAN® Training in Winfield

Jan 14, 2025

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In conjunction with February’s American Heart Month, the third annual free community-wide CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) certification event will be held February 13 through 15 at Baden Square in Winfield hosted by William Newton Hospital with support from Cowley College Allied Health, Udall Fire, USD 465 Winfield, USD 470 Arkansas City, and Winfield Fire/EMS. Four sessions will be offered to the general public and one session for healthcare providers only: Thursday 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (healthcare), and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Over 170 professionals and community members between the ages of 16 to 80 have been CPR-certified in the last two years, and NARCAN® training was added in 2024.

"The increasing opioid crisis underscores the critical need for everyone, not just medical professionals, to be equipped with lifesaving skills like CPR and NARCAN® administration," states Melanie Burnett, MSN, RN, Clinical Education/Professional Development Coordinator at William Newton Hospital.

Burnett is co-chair of William Newton Healthcare Foundation’s Beats Go On community wellness initiative aimed at providing wellness education and fostering collaborative partnerships. In her role at William Newton Hospital, she coordinates monthly CPR classes for healthcare providers and the public, which typically cost $30 for non-hospital employees. However, through this outreach effort, community partners are offering CPR certification at no cost. The free certification is made possible by Beats Go On co-chair Paula Radcliff, a local rancher and business owner who served for 27 years as an emergency medical technician at William Newton Hospital.

"We're thrilled to offer these vital trainings to our community free of charge, thanks to the generous support of our partners. By empowering individuals with these skills, we can increase the chances of survival during a cardiac emergency or opioid overdose," expressed Burnett.

Though required for professions such as healthcare, daycare staff, lifeguards, corrections officers, some construction jobs, coaches, and many school staff, there are benefits to anyone learning how to use this life-saving technique. Most cardiac arrests occur outside of a medical setting and often happen at home. If someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, it is essential to start CPR within minutes. Emergency medical staff can be alerted quickly, but if CPR is not initiated soon, it could lead to brain injury or death.

"The Beats Go On initiative was born from a desire to empower our community with life-saving skills," states Annika Morris, Executive Director of the William Newton Healthcare Foundation. "By making CPR training readily available, we're equipping our neighbors with the confidence and knowledge to potentially save a life before professional help arrives. This collaborative effort is a testament to the power of partnership and a crucial step towards building a healthier and more resilient community."

Certifications will be held through the American Heart Association. Infant CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) are included in the training. Each session will be capped at 48 participants, ages 16 and up. For more information, contact Burnett at 620-222-6254.

Register online

Learn more about Beats Go On