June 18, 2026
Media Contacts: Rebecca Breedlove-Berry, Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
757-594-7076, Rebecca.breedlove-berry@vdh.virginia.gov
Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Offer Free Compress & Shock Training in the Community
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Are you prepared for a safe summer full of swimming? While families can take steps to prevent drowning, it is equally important to know how to provide life-saving measures in an emergency. To help residents learn lifesaving skills, the Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts (HPHD) will offer free Compress & Shock training sessions throughout the community this summer.
The Compress & Shock Foundation is a physician-led nonprofit organization, 501(c) 3. It works closely with the health department and Peninsula Medical Reserve Corps to create hands-on CPR and AED training, including how to respond after drowning.
“Virginia has already seen several child drowning deaths this summer,” said Dr. Natasha Dwamena, HPHD health director. “It is vital to maintain skills that can save a life, including CPR and knowledge of how and when to use an AED. That’s why HPHD is partnering with several of the localities we serve to offer free training to the community.”
Each training lasts about an hour, with 20 minutes of lecture-based education and 40 minutes of hands-on practice. Anyone ages 13 or older can participate. Registration is not required but recommended. After the training, additional safety information will be provided on infant and food safety.
Please join us at one of the following training courses:
Thursday, June 25, 2 p.m.
Brittingham-Midtown Community Center
570 McLawhorne Drive, Newport News, VA 23601
To register for this class, visit compressandshock.org
Monday, June 29, 9 a.m.
Quarterpath Recreation Center
202 Quarterpath Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185
To register for this class, visit compressandshock.org
Thursday, Jul 02, 2026, 1 PM
Yorktown Library
8500 George Washington Memorial Hwy, Yorktown, VA 23692
To register for this class, visit compressandshock.org
Tuesday, Jul 07, 2026, 4:30 PM
Poquoson Public Library
500 City Hall Ave, Poquoson, VA 23662
To register for this class, visit compressandshock.org
Friday, July 10, 2 p.m.
Stryker Center
412 N Boundary St., Williamsburg, VA 23185
To register for this class, visit compressandshock.org
Monday, July 13, 1 p.m.
James City County Library – Grace and Stanley Kitzinger Room
770 Croaker Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188
To register for this class, visit compressandshock.org
Learn more about the Compress & Shock Foundation at compressandshock.org.
For more information on safe swimming practices and tips visit swimhealthyva.com.