The lessons are taking place in Romford Shopping Hall
Members of the public will be shown by St John Ambulance how to perform CPR on both adults and children, use a defibrillator, and save people who are choking, bleeding and suffering an asthma attack.
Jane Barber, from the Romford branch of the charity, said the life-saving skills are invaluable.
She told Time 107.5: “If somebody’s having a cardiac arrest and you just do chest compressions, you’re keeping that person alive.
“You’re pumping blood around their body, you’re giving their brain oxygen until the paramedics arrive with the advanced life support and that gives somebody the best chance of survival.
“You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to do these things.
“I’ve taught children how to do the recovery position. Very small children can turn an adult into the recovery position which could keep the airway open while help arrives.”
Jane added that there are around 20 volunteers for the Romford branch of the charity but they would like to welcome more on board.
Michelle Fitzgibbons, from Romford Shopping Hall, said: “We are delighted to help our local St John Ambulance team by allowing them to use our vacant space.
“The initiative will allow local residents to learn basic first aid skills.”
The demonstrations are being held in a pop-up shop in Romford Shopping Hall from this Saturday to Thursday, 22 August.
It will be launched by the Mayor of Havering, Michael Deon Burton, who is supporting St John Ambulance this year.
To book onto a free session call Michelle Fitzgibbons on 01708 740 492. Places are limited and booking is essential. A full list of activities is available here.
For more information about volunteering with Romford St John Ambulance contact Jane Barber, Unit Manager, on 07875 590 811 or jane.barber@sja.org.uk
Tags: Romford, Havering
