Tragedy struck in Tucson when Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, among others, was victim of a shooting. Luckily, several bystanders, trained in vital lifesaving skills were able to sustain the life of Rep. Giffords and other victims. It is so important for everyone to be trained in lifesaving skills because we never know when disaster will strike.

The American Red Cross is honoring the victims of this tragic event on March 19 by hosting free hands-only CPR and first aid trainings across the nation. For more information on training sessions throughout the nation, go to www.redcross.org/savealife.

The Oregon Red Cross will be holding 3 free training sessions at 10 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. at the Willamette Chapter in Salem. To register, call (503) 585-5414. If you are unable to attend and would like to find a date that works for you, check out the class schedule at oregonredcross.org/classes.