But, following a CPR awareness program on Thursday, Muswellbrook Public School students will be equipped if they are ever in an emergency situation.

The Year 5 and 6 children listened to volunteer Cameron McFarlane demonstrate valuable tips for potential life saving.

According to Royal Life Saving, 280 people drowned in Australian waterways from July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2016.

So, in his attempt to make water activities safer, Mr McFarlane travels around the state to share his knowledge, supported by the Royal Life Saving Society.

The program facilitator visited schools in the Upper Hunter last year, and was asked to return in 2017.

“There’s been a great demand,” he said.

“It is a vital skills and you never know when it can or will happen.

“I’m talking with some of the schools about parent sessions.”

Mr McFarlane’s program has won two NSW state awards, and he was named the Volunteer of the Year for the New England region.

“I’ve had quite a few experiences in CPR myself,” he said.

“I realise how simple this skill is – so very simple, but so vital.”

To keep updated throughout the program’s duration, find the NSW Primary School CPR Awareness Campaign on Facebook.