Purposes of CPR Certification

• Many jobs require CPR certification, including lifeguarding and teaching positions. It also serves a useful purpose in coaching sports and babysitting. The ability to quickly respond to a situation with proper CPR application has the potential to save lives.
  
  

Benefits of In-Person Training

• Although you can gain CPR certification online, you probably want to train in person with a certified instructor. This will give you hands-on experience and the ability to ask questions of a trustworthy teacher. In addition, your future employer can rest assured that you actually gained the certificate; in online programs, a student may have another person step in and take the test.
  
  

Programs

• The American Red Cross offers certificates that last for one year, or, in the case of lifeguard and first aid training, three years. The American Heart Association's certificate lasts for two years. Ideally, you should take another class each time the certificate expires. Courses employ hands-on training, video and lectures to prepare students to act effectively in an emergency situation.