Bystanders who knew CPR when the Tucson tragedy struck were able to save lives that day. Here in Reno, more than 100 people spent their day learning some of the same life-saving sills used in Tucson at our local Red Cross.

Red Cross chapters across the country held the free training on "Gabrielle Giffords' Honorary Save-a-Life Saturday."

The people who attended the class had the opportunity to learn basic CPR. They practiced chest compressions on mini toy ambulances that mimic the depth the compressions would need to be in a real life situation.

After that, they had some hands on training in controlling bleeding and managing shock.

Giffords' story inspired many people to come get the training.

"Because of her situation, the little effort they put in to her helped her save her life," said Karina Pierce, who completed the class. She said she also wanted to learn the skills so she can use them when she baby-sits.

"I think it's brought a lot of people forward to recognize that even if they do anything small, they can help out someone," said Rod Poole, with the Reno Red Cross.

Chances are, you might need to know these skills too. A recent Red Cross survey showed about a quarter of the population has run into a situation where someone needed CPR.

If you missed the free classes, the Red Cross does offer full CPR courses, too.

Visit RedCross.org for more information.