It is important for everyone to know First Aid basics, whether you are a parent, work in a large office, or just want to be ready in case of an emergency.

According to the American Heart Association, First Aid is “the immediate care that you give someone with an illness or injury before trained help arrives and takes over.”
 
It often takes trained help, which includes emergency medical workers, doctors, nurses, and other medical specialists, minutes or even hours to arrive, depending on where the injured person is and what the circumstances are. Knowing First Aid can help ensure the person stays alive and is able to be treated. Your assistance could mean the difference between life and death!
 
Because you are not an EMS rescuer or other type of medically-trained technician, you have a choice whether or not to help someone who is ill or injured. Hopefully, you will choose to help and you will have the skills it takes. These skills are easily-acquired in any First Aid class. First Aid classes only take a few hours, and you will have life-saving knowledge that makes a difference next time you see a car accident, watch a child fall, or notice someone who is ill. You can find out about upcoming First Aid classes by calling your local police or fire station or by contacting the American Heart Association.