To increase awareness of the importance of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and life-saving techniques such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the Robbie Levine Foundation sponsored free AED/CPR certification courses in Bellmore-Merrick recently.

The foundation was begun to honor Robbie Levine, a 9-year-old Merokean who died suddenly on Sept. 27, 2005, when his heart stopped while he was running the bases during a Little League team practice. The group offers AED/CPR courses annually to show people how to use an AED, and what to do if they meet spot someone who is in sudden cardiac arrest.

This year, participants gathered at the North Merrick Fire Department for the classes. They were offered on Jan. 24 and 26.