Hands-On Ridgefield seeks to train as many by-standers as possible in hands-only CPR and AED use. For every minute someone in cardiac arrest does not receive CPR, their chance of survival decreases by 10%. On average, it takes EMS seven minutes to reach the scene. Therefore, by-stander CPR and AED use is crucial to victim survival.

Hands-On Ridgefield is free to Ridgefield residents. Training sessions are held at the Ridgefield Fire Department.

Hands-On Ridgefield was started by Tara Slovinski, an EMT with Newtown Ambulance, in the summer of 2024. In collaboration with the Ridgefield Fire Department, Hands-On Ridgefield has trained approximately 100 Ridgefielders in these lifesaving skills. Prior to Hands-On Ridgefield, Tara trained approximately 150 students and faculty in her high school community in hands-only CPR and AED use.

From the use of pre-and post-questionnaires, the effectiveness of the training program has been measured. The results are encouraging with 97% of students feeling comfortable performing hands-only CPR and 100% feeling confident using an AED.

To make Hands-On Ridgefield a sustainable community program, Keegan Slovinski, certified in Basic Life Support CPR, is continuing the training sessions. He is excited to ask high school students in Ridgefield to apply to join the training team.

Hands-On Ridgefield hopes to train as many Ridgefielders as possible. Please sign-up to learn these live-saving skills, so you can save the life of a family member, friend, or neighbor.