Gain Lifesaving Skills: Free Training in Winfield
Jan 21, 2026
In conjunction with February’s American Heart Month, the fourth annual free community-wide training event will be held February 5 through 7 at Baden Square in Winfield. Over 300 professionals and community members have been trained in life-saving techniques like CPR and NARCAN® administration over the last three years.
This event is part of William Newton Healthcare Foundation’s Beats Go On community wellness initiative, with partners including Cowley College, Southwestern College, Udall Fire, USD 465 Winfield, USD 470 Arkansas City, William Newton Hospital, and Winfield Fire/EMS.
Four CPR/NARCAN® sessions will be offered to the public and one session for healthcare professionals: Thursday, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and healthcare only 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
New for 2026 is a free Stop the Bleed training session on Thursday at 4:00 p.m. Stop the Bleed teaches anyone to become an immediate responder by learning how to control bleeding injuries from serious accidents or disasters.
Though common among professions such as healthcare, childcare, lifeguards, corrections, construction, education, and coaching, there are benefits to anyone learning how to use these life-saving techniques. For example, most cardiac arrests occur outside of a medical setting and often happen at home. If someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, it is essential to start CPR within minutes. Emergency medical staff can be alerted quickly, but if CPR is not initiated soon, it could lead to brain injury or death.
"Everyone, not just medical professionals, should be equipped with lifesaving skills like CPR, NARCAN® administration, and Stop the Bleed," states Melanie Burnett, MSN, RN, Associate Professor of Nursing at Southwestern College.
Burnett is co-chair of William Newton Healthcare Foundation’s Beats Go On community wellness initiative aimed at providing wellness education and fostering collaborative partnerships. Prior to teaching, she coordinated monthly CPR classes for healthcare providers and the public at William Newton Hospital, a role now led by Education Coordinator Cheryl Brock. These classes typically cost $30 for non-hospital employees.
February’s annual free training was inspired by Paula Radcliff, a local rancher, business owner, and long-time William Newton Hospital EMT, who believed in equipping our neighbors with the confidence and knowledge to potentially save a life before professional help arrives.
"Over the past three years, hundreds of participants and dozens of instructors and volunteers have enhanced our communty's ability to respond in emergency situations,” states Annika Morris, Executive Director of the William Newton Healthcare Foundation. "This collaborative effort is a testament to the power of partnership and a crucial step towards building a healthier and more resilient community."
Course completion cards for CPR will be issued by the American Heart Association. Infant CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) are included in the training. Each session will be capped at 46 participants.
To reserve your seat, register online. For more information, contact the William Newton Healthcare Foundation at 620-222-6275.
Posted in Beats Go On , Emergency Care , Foundation , In The News on Jan 21, 2026