Imagine this: you’re at a family BBQ, the air heavy with laughter, and then all of a sudden, your uncle falls, clutching his chest. Everyone looks about in fear and confusion as panic breaks out. I’m having a heart attack. There is not much time left. Those who are certified in Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) become invaluable in situations such as these. You will get the information and abilities need to respond accurately in urgent circumstances by completing this class.

What makes someone jump right into BCLS training, then? Many people understand its critical value, from regular citizens to medical specialists. If you do not have that BCLS badge, hospitals will not even examine you. It is, however, revolutionary for educators, trainers, and even parents outside of the hospital. It’s a certification, but it’s a lifeline, pardon the pun.

Picture yourself watching a child collapse at your child’s soccer match. You look around and realize that, indeed, this is your chance to shine. It all starts to sink in when you complete that BCLS training. Making sure the patient is responsive, starting chest compressions, and expertly administering the automated external defibrillator (AED)—you are the day’s greatest hero.

The ability to perform AED use and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is the core of BCLS training. Chest compressions are exercises you’ll perform until your arms feel as though they would break off. You’ll also pick up the skill of breathing without becoming uncomfortable. Recall the practice questions from your high school health class? Now that they are returned, they must be saved. It all comes down to having the right muscle memory and being able to react quickly when moments count.

Many people are shocked by how powerful the procedure feels, despite the fact that it may sound frightening. There is a strong focus on identifying signs prior to full-blown emergencies in addition to the technical aspects of performing CPR and using an AED. Whatever one can do to help, even if it’s just knowing the warning symptoms of a heart attack or recognizing when someone may be about to go into cardiac arrest, is helpful.

And now for the course itself. Although some choose an online option, BCLS training normally lasts one day. Either way, both forms end with a practical skills exam where you can put your newly acquired knowledge to the test. Consider it a pop quiz, only with dummies. There is no way to let the ball drop. The test instructors are blunt and there are a lot of stakes involved. Ultimately, this certification is life-saving.

Let’s chat about the price now. Although the paths leading to BCLS certification can be expensive, they are well worth the money. Fees differ depending on the organization, duration, and credentials of the instructor. In certain cases, employers even pay for expenses as part of their programs for professional development. Nothing like getting by on free, eh?

Recertification is a thing since it’s necessary to maintain their abilities. You should get back in the saddle about every two years. The medical field is dynamic, and methods change. You may avoid becoming out of date by keeping yourself informed. It more closely resembles fueling your superpower than being a burden.

I’ll break it down with a tale for those who aren’t sure. While getting his morning coffee, my friend Steve once saved a life. When one of the other customers fell, Steve automatically took over, leaving everyone else hanging. Not wasting any time, he started CPR and, by the time emergency medical personnel arrived, had the man breathing again. Steve claims he has never had such an intense rush of excitement and thankfulness.

Take advantage of the chance that BCLS certification presents. It’s for everyone around you, not just for you. All of a sudden, you are someone who can truly impact the world rather than simply another face in the throng. Furthermore, who knows? You might be the reason someone’s heart continues to beat one day.