First Aid is the provision of initial care for an illness or injury. It is usually performed by non-expert, trained personnel to a sick and injured person until definitive medical treatment can be accessed. Certain minor injuries and self-limiting illness which may not require further medical care past first aid intervention. First aid generally consists of a series of simple and in some cases, potentially lifesaving techniques that an individual can be trained to perform with minimal equipment.

The Red Cross shows that nearly 40 per cent of Canadians say they have been in an emergency situation where they have had to perform first aid; however, only 18 per cent are currently certified.

On this day, we remind you of the importance to renew your First Aid Certification or register to a First Aid Course for the first time. More information on types of courses and locations are available on the Red Cross website at www.redcross.ca.