Would you know what to do if someone collapsed next to you, or your child started choking on something? Saturday September 8 is World First Aid Day and Red Cross College is highlighting the need for people of all ages to update their skills to ensure they know what to do in a First Aid emergency.
Red Cross College, the commercial arm of Australian Red Cross, says many people do not realise how important it is to refresh their First Aid skills. After completing CPR training, it is recommended that a refresher course is done yearly. The Apply First Aid qualification should be updated every three years.
Lots of us still believe the Heimlich manoeuvre is the correct procedure to use when someone is choking. In fact, many people are too quick to undertake potentially dangerous interventions, such as abdominal thrusts, when someone is choking. The recommended intervention is to start with less invasive ways of helping the person to breathe, such as encouraging them to cough first.
Red Cross has been teaching First Aid to Australians since 1914, with Red Cross College delivering training to organisations and individuals. Knowledge is key to providing the right support in a First Aid emergency. Test your knowledge by taking the ‘What would you do if…’ quiz at www.redcross.org.au/worldfirstaidday
To refresh your First Aid skills, contact Red Cross College for information about courses on 1300 367 428 or go to redcross.edu.au today.
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