Imagine the scene: Everyone is enjoying themselves at a barbecue when suddenly Uncle Joe collapses. It’s panic time. What should you be doing, click for source? Why not call 911 and get help right away? CPR and basic first aid are vital in these situations.
Only medical professionals should know about this. Wrong! The average person like myself or you can have a profound impact. It’s like adding another tool to the life skills toolbox.
Let’s start by discussing the basics of First Aid. It isn’t rocket science. But it requires some knowledge. Simple things such as knowing how to apply the right pressure to stop a bleeding wound, or cleaning a cut properly, can save countless lives. Remember when Timmy, the little boy who fell off his bike and scraped a knee? If you had been a bit more informed, that situation would have been less stressful.
CPR or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is a completely different thing, but just as crucial. Imagine that someone is suddenly unable to breathe. This is a scary thought. CPR is a way to ensure that oxygen continues to flow to the brain of a victim until help arrives. It can literally be the difference between death and life.
Learning these skills will empower you to do things in unexpected ways. Have you ever been in an airplane where someone needed medical attention? Yes, flight attendants undergo training. But, wouldn’t stepping up to the plate be amazing? You would be a hero, saving the day.
One time, I was at a music concert when someone fainted. The crowd had no idea what to do, save for one guy. He’d taken a First Aid course last summer. Once she was conscious, he acted immediately by raising her legs. The guy was a true rock star, in more ways than just one!
How can you get started then? Local community centers often provide courses at reasonable or even no cost! Many employers also offer training sessions, as they realize the importance.
Add some humor now, because hey learning should always be fun! Imagine practicing CPR while those mannequins stare at you lifelessly with their eyes closed. It is almost like getting ready to face a zombie invasion! Let’s not forget the hilarious and awkward moments of practice where everyone is “the target.”
But jokes apart, this course builds confidence as well. You’ll be able to walk with more confidence knowing that your prepared for situations that many people fear.
Also, these skills have universal recognition as being desirable in a range of careers – from teachers to office staff to lifeguards – even babysitters. They are a plus for employers, as they show initiative and responsibility.
You know what else? The first aid skills you learn aren’t limited to dealing with life-threatening situations, like heart attacks and broken bone. They can also be used for more mundane mishaps.
The more people that know CPR and basic first aid, the safer we become as a community. Each person who has been trained creates a positive ripple effect.
Why wait any further? Start learning these invaluable skills today. You may end up saving someone’s life tomorrow.