The benefits of learning first aid

In my younger years, I never had either the inclination or the motivation to learn first aid.  Mostly out of fear and a thought that I have heard too many people express in the last 6 years; “I don’t think I could do that.  I’d muck it up and kill them.”  Such an odd thought to have since, if you do nothing, the person could die anyway.

This is despite the fact that during high school, one of my class mates passed away during class after the heroic efforts by the people, the students, teachers and paramedics involved to try and save them.

Irrespective of my misgivings, one day I plucked up the courage and decided to take my first course.  How wrong could I be?  The skills picked up in any course are simple, straight forward and easy to apply.  Over a decade later, I now teach these skills to everyday people.  From staff employed in first response roles to folks who have not been to school in over 50 years.

From the time I finished my first course, I was determined.  Never again! Never on my watch would someone go through a life or death moment where I would not try my utmost to save them.  I use my skills regularly at work, on the property or even a community first responder.

If you ever thought that first aid should be complicated or had to be at an unattainable level of presentation, I say “hooey!”  First aid skills are easy to use and improvisation is allowed.  Anyone can learn how to save a life.  The end result doesn’t have to be pretty or neat, just effective and supportive.  Think what you could do if you have just a little know-how.  Talk to a first aid provider and learn a skill that could save a life.