I participated in a class to learn first aid to rescue people who are at risk of life. The seminar was held at city's fire department headquarters. My purpose to join the morning class was to be prepared for a case if students at elementary school should drown in a swimming pool this summer break. As a mother of a school kid son, I will watch a swimming pool as a parent volunteer.

In this class, held at the fire house, I learned what we should do to save a life until an ambulance car arrives. Those actions include asking nearby people to call 199 (Japan's emergency call) and asking another person to bring an automated external defibrillator. And my mission is giving the fallen person a heart massage continuously.

At the venue, about 80 adults got together. Watching a video for general information, we were divided to eight groups. Then, we practiced cardiac compression on a life-size figure. Pushing on the chest many times made me tired because the body surface was hard. So, if it really happens, I felt uncertain but I did have responsibility for resuscitation. 

In Japan, there are AED (automated external defibrillator) devices around the country, including supermarkets, schools, stations and other public institutions. Even though I have not often heard of actual cases ordinary citizens use the device, I feel the need that more people get the knowledge practically. So, today's lecture was a good chance for me to save life anytime anywhere.

The posted image shows one part from the leaflet I was given at the seminar.