Word on Health

Word on First Aid

Our grateful thanks to The British Red Cross and  St Johns Ambulance for their contribution to this weeks report and for the outstanding work that they do.

As we heard 'on-air' (and you can hear again below) every year, up to 150,000 people die in situations where someone knowing basic First Aid could have given them the chance to live. Our grateful thanks to the St Johns Ambulance for their contribution to this weeks report and for the outstanding work that they do.

First Aid 

Research shows only 5% of us claim to have the knowledge or confidence to be able to deal with a  situation where basic first aid is required. 

The basics take about three hours to learn and can cost as little as £25.  Smartphone apps and First Aid guides are useful but the very best training you can recieve, as we heard, is hands on with an experienced trainer. 

St Johns Ambulance offer three short training courses for members of the public. The courses differ slightly, but each will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to deal with both minor incidents and major emergencies, such as severe bleeding, heart attacks, choking and an unconscious casualty who has stopped breathing. Check out their website to find a course local to you. 

The Royal Life Saving Society UK  was formed in 1891 and is the governing body and leading provider of training and education in lifesaving, lifeguarding, water safety and life support skills in the UK. Each year its volunteers train approximately 1 million people in water safety, rescue techniques and life support, including 95 percent of all pool and beach lifeguards. Go to their website to find out more. 

The British Red Cross provide First Aid training for every need, including a range of courses for members of the public and first aid at work courses for those who need to comply with health and safety requirements. Log on to their website for additional information. 

The NHS Ambulance Service First Aid Training consortium (NASFAT)  is essentially a partnership of NHS Ambulance Services that are working together to promote a full range of high-quality First Aid Training Services that they provide both locally and nationally. Visit their website for further details. 

Listen to this weeks radio report

All material on this website is provided for your information only and may not be construed as medical advice or instruction. No action or inaction should be taken based solely on the contents of this information; instead, readers should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their health and well-being.