PLAISTOW — Jim Palmer is used to preparing meals, but this week he’s preparing some of his workers, customers and others for a life-or-death emergency.

Palmer, owner of the Live Free or Diner, hosted a Red Cross CPR class and agreed to foot the bill for half of the cost of the course for the 10 people who signed up.

It was Palmer’s way of giving back to a community that has supported his restaurant venture since he took over in November, 2010.

Last year, the 54-year-old restaurant owner from Rochester donated 20 flags and poles to the Patriot Guard Riders.

“We were thinking about what we wanted to do this year,” he said.

Then he got an idea.

Restaurant server Lauren McColgan needed to take a CPR course before she could begin an internship for her degree in phlebotomy from Northern Essex Community College.

Palmer decided to help her out.

“Jim said he would look into it because he thought it would be a good idea,” McColgan said.

Palmer contacted the Red Cross and inquired about holding a course that would benefit McColgan and others, including himself.

Palmer said he took a CPR class to become certified many years ago but never kept up his certification.

“It’s something you don’t think about so I thought I would get it renewed,” he said. “Hopefully we’ll be proactive and do something good.”

Palmer and three of his employees, including McColgan, were among those who signed up for the $70 class, which will cost just $35 since Palmer will cover the rest.

Palmer isn’t sure yet whether he’ll offer a CPR course again next year, but he might.

“I plan on doing at least one project every year as a public service thing. This has certainly generated interest and I have no problem doing it again,” he said.

He challenged other local restaurants to do the same.

“We’re in Plaistow together,” he said. “It’s all our neighbors. We’re in a strip mall, but I feel we’re a neighborhood diner.”

- - - - - - - -

Jason Schreiber may be reached at jschreiber@newstote.com.