Community Training & Lifesaving Skills

Lifesaving skills are simple actions that can make a critical difference during a medical emergency. When more community members are trained and confident to respond, survival outcomes improve.

CCAS provides free, evidence-based training across Pittsburgh to help individuals, organizations, and communities prepare for real emergencies. Our programs focus on practical skills that can be used immediately to support someone in crisis before professional responders arrive.

Interested in bringing training to your school, workplace, or community group?

Explore our available training programs or submit a request to schedule a session with our team.

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  • How to recognize and respond to a cardiac arrest using CPR and AED

  • How to identify an overdose and Naloxone/Narcan Administration

  • How to identify and slow major bleeds

  • Recognize choking and severe allergic reactions, and learn how to respond with abdominal thrusts and epinephrine (EpiPen) administration as part of essential first aid.

Available Trainings

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No, you do not need certification to use these skills.

  • The Good Samaritan law protects bystanders who use lifesaving skills to try and help in a medical emergency within reason. For example, you are protected if you do CPR and break a couple ribs.

    Please review your states version for further questions.

  • All community trainings provided by CCAS are free. Our goal is to remove barriers and ensure anyone who wants to learn lifesaving skills has access to them.

  • Some trainings, such as formal CPR/AED certification courses, can include certification depending on the session type and request. Many of our community sessions focus on hands-on lifesaving skills and confidence-building rather than formal certification. Let us know what you’re looking for when submitting a request.

  • Anyone can request a training. We regularly work with schools, student organizations, workplaces, community groups, faith-based organizations, and local agencies throughout the Pittsburgh area.

  • Most sessions range from 45–120 minutes depending on the content and group size. We can adjust the length and format based on your organization’s needs and schedule.

  • We typically come to your location and provide on-site training. We can also help coordinate space if needed depending on availability.

  • We can accommodate both small and large groups. When you submit a request, include an estimated number of participants so we can plan instructors and equipment accordingly.