Harnett County Emergency Services is preparing to launch a new program offering free hands-on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) classes to citizens of Harnett County. The first session will be held on October 13, 2025, and the program will run indefinitely.

Classes are offered to residents of Harnett County for free and will be held for two hours on the 2nd Monday of each month. Participants will not need to bring anything with them. These classes will be hands-on and will NOT result in a CPR certification.

Learning CPR is a valuable skill that could save someone’s life– the American Heart Association reports half a million cardiac arrests occur each year and bystanders immediately starting CPR can greatly increase the risk of survival.

“Life is very precious, and knowing CPR can help you protect it,” said Kenny Lorkiewicz, EMS Training Captain. “By learning CPR, you have a good chance at saving a life. You never know, someone close to you may need it.”

The American Heart Association also shares:

1. Keeping the blood flow active – even partially – extends the opportunity for a successful resuscitation once trained medical staff arrive on site.

2. Immediate CPR can double or triple chances of survival after cardiac arrest.

CPR is a skill that may be necessary at any time and is worthwhile to learn. Harnett County CPR classes will teach the skills necessary to successfully perform CPR on those experiencing cardiac arrest – including children, parents, spouses, and other loved ones.

For more information or to sign up, call Kenny Lorkiewicz, EMS Training Captain, at (910) 893-0719 or email klorkiewicz@harnett.org.