CPR training expands amid cardiac emergency concerns in Thurston County

The West Thurston Regional Fire Authority is calling on residents to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States, in recognition of American Heart Month in February.

The department is promoting heart-healthy habits and CPR training to increase awareness and preparedness across the county. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is responsible for nearly 700,000 deaths annually. Experts caution that prevention and emergency readiness are essential in reducing heart disease fatalities. 

Steps to reduce heart disease risk 

To help residents take control of their heart health, West Thurston Fire has outlined six strategies to improve heart health: 

• Physical activity — Regular exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cardio workouts or strength training. 

• Stress management — High stress levels can contribute to heart problems. Managing stress through yoga, meditation,or keeping a gratitude journal can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart-related conditions. 

• Healthy eating — A diet low in saturated fats, added sugars and sodium helps maintain a strong heart. Using low-sodium seasonings, healthy oils and incorporating whole foods are effective strategies. 

• Hydration — Drinking enough water supports cardiovascular function and prevents dehydration, which can increase heart strain and lead to irregular blood pressure. 

• Adequate sleep — Sleep deprivation is linked to higher risks of high blood pressure, obesity and heart disease. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults should aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night. 

• CPR training — Knowing how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can double or triple survival rates in cases of cardiac arrest. The medical condition affects more than 350,000 Americans annually outside of hospitals. 

The Thurston County Medic One stated that sudden cardiac arrest can strike without warning, and bystander CPR is now a necessary skill especially in emergency cases before the paramedics arrive. 

Without immediate intervention, survival rates drop by 7-10% per minute. 

The AHA also reports only about 40% of cardiac arrest victims receive CPR before professional medical help arrives. 

Free CPR trainings available 

West Thurston Fire reminds residents that seconds count in cardiac emergencies. 

Effective bystander CPR, when performed immediately after cardiac arrest, can double a victim’s survival chance. However, many people hesitate to intervene because they lack training or confidence in their abilities. 

To address this issue, Thurston County Medic One offers free adult compression-only CPR with AED training. 

The training provides residents with the confidence to act in both emergency and nonemergency situations. 

The 60- to 90-minute courses meet nationally recognized CPR training standards and are available to individuals who live or work in Thurston County. 

Unlike traditional CPR, the program focuses on hands-only CPR, which is a method that involves continuous chest compressions without mouth-to-mouth breathing until emergency responders arrive. 

The Medic One said the approach is highly effective and easier for bystanders to perform, and increases the likelihood of immediate assistance in a life-threatening situation. 

For people looking to become CPR-certified, West Thurston Fire and Medic One are offering free CPR training at multiple locations: 

• West Thurston Regional Fire Authority CPR Training on Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. in Rochester. 

• Woodlawn Funeral Home CPR Training on Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. in Lacey. 

• Griffin Fire Department CPR Training on Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. in Steamboat Island. 

• Plum St. YMCA CPR Training on March 1 at 10 a.m. in Olympia. 

• Bald Hills Fire Department CPR Training on March 6 at 7 p.m. in Yelm. 

• South Bay Fire Department CPR Training on March 12 at 7 p.m. in Olympia. 

Private group training sessions are also available for groups of six or more. 

Residents can register online via the Thurston County Medic One website or contact Erin Burgman at erin.burgman@co.thurston.wa.us for more details.