Charlton, MA - The Charlton Fire Department in Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, continued its community outreach and public education efforts by hosting another successful Community CPR program held at Charlton Town Hall.

On August 18, 2026, the department conducted one of its scheduled free training sessions, teaching residents essential lifesaving skills including Adult and Child CPR, AED operation, and Narcan administration. The program is part of an ongoing initiative aimed at improving bystander response in medical emergencies before fire or EMS arrival.

So far this year, the department has conducted eight free Community CPR programs and two babysitting courses, certifying more than 100 community members. In adition, CPR instructors have delivered several additional classes to local partners including school staff, municipal employees, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Rangers.

These training programs have been supported in part through funding from an Opiate Grant, allowing the department to provide certifcation courses at no cost to participants and expand access to lifesaving education across the community.

Department officials credited Captain Hamberg and Lieutenant Maldonado for their continued leadership and commitment to the program, noting their role in expanding training opportunities and strengthening public preparedness.

Officials emphasized that early CPR, AED use, and Narcan administration can significantly improve survival outcomes in medical emergencies, reinforcing the importance of community-wide training and readiness.