MINEOLA, N.Y., April 30, 2009 – Long Islanders have a convenient way to get trained in lifesaving skills such as CPR and first aid – Online. The American Red Cross in Nassau County has partnered with the American Red Cross of Greater Indianapolis to offer Red Cross online training.

“We know that people are busy and it’s hard to find time to sit in a class and learn first aid or CPR. However, we believe that these skills are extremely valuable because they make our homes, schools, workplaces and communities safer. That’s why we decided to offer online training,” said Matt Crimmins, director of health and safety programs for the Nassau Red Cross.

Online training is extremely beneficial because it allows individuals to learn on their own time and at their own pace. Classes can be accessed any time of day from a computer with an Internet connection. Students may advance at their own speed, which allows individuals to absorb the information in a way that works best for them. Red Cross online training was designed to meet a variety of learning styles. The courses offer a combination of written material, photos and videos.

Red Cross online training was built with accessibility requirements in mind and can be used with screen readers or other tools. In addition, all user support technicians are Red Cross certified instructors who can help clarify course information and answer technology questions.

Some online training courses, like CPR, require students to attend a skill session before a certificate can be issued. Skill sessions normally take about two hours and are regularly scheduled, during the week and the weekends for convenience.

It’s easy for students to sign up. Simply visit www.nassauredcross.org and click on the Red Cross online training button. From there students can select, register for and begin a course in less than five minutes. Sign up, take a class, attend a skill session and know how to respond in an emergency. Online training offers a way for our homes, schools, workplaces and communities to be safer – won’t you log on today?

For more information about this and the many other ways the American Red Cross in Nassau County is working to make Long Island a safer place to live, work and play, call (516) 747-3500 or visit the chapter at 195 Willis Avenue in Mineola.

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