WORLD FIRST AID DAY

(Last Updated On: November 8, 2022)

On the second Saturday in September, World First Aid Day raises awareness of how first aid can save lives. It’s also a day to commit to learning first aid.

First aid is defined as giving someone immediate medical assistance. It’s often given until full medical treatment is available. The first step of providing first aid is recognizing that someone needs medical attention. CPR is one example of first aid. Using an automated external defibrillator (AED) and giving the Heimlich maneuver are other types of first aid. If someone has an open wound, first aid would include applying pressure to stop the bleeding and applying a bandage. Treating burns, frostbite, bee stings, sprains, and nosebleeds are all types of first aid as well.

First aid is a very effective means of helping someone. When people sustain a serious injury, and no one can perform first aid, the person could die before emergency responders arrive. According to a recent Red Cross survey, 59 percent of deaths from injuries may have been prevented by first aid.

First aid isn’t just about saving lives, however. There are other reasons first aid is vitally important. When first aid is given to someone that is injured, it can do the following:

Improve the chance of a full recovery and prevent permanent disabilities.
Shorten the length of hospital stays.
Prevent bad medical situations from getting worse.
Reduce unnecessary visits to the hospital.
Relieve physical and emotional pain of the patient.
Provide a crucial means of communication to emergency responders.

Those who learn first aid become more aware of potential hazards, and it also helps reduce their susceptibility to accidents. In addition, knowing first aid helps people feel empowered and prepares them for anything that comes their way.

HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldFirstAidDay

On this day, more than 100 Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies organize events around the globe. These events and ceremonies increase awareness for first aid and the lives it can save. These events also encourage the general public to learn first aid and to obtain first aid certification. If you don’t know first aid, today is a great day to commit to taking first aid courses. You can encourage your friends and family members to do the same. Have you have ever provided first aid to someone in need? Or were you ever helped by someone who knew first aid? If so, share your story on social media with #WorldFirstAidDay.