Red Cross encourages Canadians to update First Aid training

OTTAWA, Sept. 12, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - This World First Aid Day, September 13th, the Canadian Red Cross is calling on all Canadians to ensure they have the proper First Aid skills and confidence needed to save lives in an emergency situation.  

"First aid emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere, and affect anyone," says Don Marentette, national manager of First Aid programs with the Canadian Red Cross. "Although more than two thirds of Canadians say they can recognize the signs of a life-threating health emergency, like choking or a heart attack, only half are confident in their skills to help."

According to  Red Cross polling, nearly 40 per cent of Canadians say they've been in an emergency situation where they had to perform First Aid, however only 18 per cent had taken a First Aid course in the last three years. That is why for World First Aid Day, the Red Cross is encouraging Canadians to take a course or renew their certification. First Aid certification is recommended every three years to ensure First Aid responders have the most current information and are confident in their skills.

"Having the right information at hand can give you the confidence you need to help a loved one, colleague or stranger in need," said Marentette. "That's why the Red Cross encourages Canadians to take a course if you have not already, or renew your First Aid certification if it's been more than three years."

The Canadian Red Cross is a leading provider of First Aid and CPR programs and has been offering First Aid and CPR training to Canadians for over 50 years. For more information or to find a course near you, visit www.redcross.ca/firstaid.

Canadians can also download the Red Cross First Aid app, where online tutorials and lifesaving knowledge is available immediately. www.redcross.ca/apps

SOURCE: Canadian Red Cross

Canadian Red Cross Media Line, [phone]