Calgary First Aid Offers Free CPR Workshops for Heart Month

Calgary First Aid is hosting a series of free CPR workshops throughout February, coinciding with Heart Month, aimed at teaching essential life-saving skills to the public. These workshops will cover hands-only CPR, basics of using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and how to assist someone in medical distress before emergency services arrive.

Owner of Calgary First Aid, Mark Kascha, emphasized the importance of these sessions, stating they are designed to be accessible to everyone. “We’re targeting everybody; we want everyone to take these courses,” he explained. “The more awareness we can bring, teaching people not to be scared and equipping them with skills to help in emergencies, can significantly improve survival chances.”

Recognizing that emergencies can occur unexpectedly, Kascha highlighted the necessity of being prepared. “You never know when you might need to assist someone in distress. It can happen to anyone,” he noted. Understanding how to help and overcoming the fear associated with emergencies can make all the difference, he added.

Fear can be a major barrier during emergencies. First responders often experience anxiety not only from the situation at hand but also from the pressure of responding effectively. Kascha pointed out that knowledge and practice are vital in reducing these fears for both the injured and the responder.

On January 15, 2026, Kascha himself faced a critical moment while skiing at Cypress Mountain when he encountered someone in need of CPR. “That was the first major incident for me, where I had to offer somebody CPR,” he recalled. “Decades of practice kicked in, and I felt no fear, only a determination to perform the best I could.”

Through these free workshops across Western Canada, Kascha aims to express gratitude to those who helped him during that emergency and to inspire others to gain the training necessary to potentially save lives.

Empowering Communities Through Knowledge

Instructor Robert Kamis is witnessing a diverse array of participants in the workshops, which attract individuals needing training for work and those eager to be ready in case they are called upon in an emergency. “In the four-hour session, we teach all the basic skills of first aid, from dealing with choking to performing CPR,” Kamis stated.

Participants also learn how to operate an AED and manage common first aid situations such as bleeding, shock, and burns. Despite the serious nature of the subject, Kamis strives to create an engaging atmosphere in the classes. “Even though first aid can be tough, we try to make it fun to help people remember their training,” he explained.

As part of Heart Month, Kamis encourages everyone to take the time to learn these vital skills. “If someone is in medical distress and needs help, you can save a life,” he affirmed.

For more information about the free CPR workshops offered by Calgary First Aid, interested individuals can visit their official website.