You are at a family BBQ when Uncle Bob collapses, clutching his chest. As panic takes hold, everyone scatters and doesn’t know what to do. Imagine someone doing CPR, calling 911 and providing CPR. Sounds like a movie scene? Prepare yourself with Para CPR & First Aid.
CPR, first aid, and other skills seem to be something you would only need in a healthcare setting. However, these are skills that should be taught to everyone. It’s worth thinking about. The unexpected happens. It’s like that friend who shows up on your sofa every time. Knowing what you should do can mean the life or death difference.
I’ve taken a first-aid class and it was quite eye opening. It was something I assumed I would never have to use. How wrong I was. One sunny afternoon, I found myself at a park. A kid hurt his elbow after falling from the monkey bar. His mom was distraught, unsure of whether to move or not. I used my first-aid knowledge as a secret tool. I stabilized the arm and calmed the child down. I also reassured his mother until help arrived. For a few hours, I felt like Superman!
Everyday scenarios can quickly turn into crises. What is the risk of choking on food or drink? Too often. Simple maneuvers, like Heimlich, can save lives. But it’s more than just big things. Basic first aid includes minor injuries such as cuts, burns and sprains. In a crisis, training can be automatic.
CPR. Let’s take a minute to discuss it. Ever heard of sudden heart arrest? It is just as sudden and alarming as it sounds. It can happen at any time. CPR is a way to keep oxygen flowing in the brain, until paramedics arrive. This isn’t rocket science. Yes, it may seem intimidating at first, but I assure you, practice is all it takes. This is because you are taught it repeatedly in classes, which makes it second nature.
The schools often require a certain curriculum, but they ignore the lifesaving skills. It is a missed opportunity. Imagine graduating high school students who have not only the algebra skills but also are able to save their classmates. That’s powerful.
While we are busy getting through the day, we don’t often consider long-term advantages of investments like CPR. The impact can be huge. You’ve probably heard of the “ripple effect”. Save a life and help many others: friends, family, communities.
Do not just keep it to yourself. Share the knowledge. Motivate your family members and friends. Organise a weekend session of learning. Make it a safety event with pizza and beverages. What a fun time that was! You’ll all be more connected by the shared experience.
A myth is also worth addressing: CPR doesn’t apply to children. It’s not just for adults. Children also need it. You’re not compressing at adult-level compressions. The same techniques are used for the little ones.
We should not ignore the emotional factors. Imagine the satisfaction you’d experience knowing that you helped save a person’s life. It’s a high like no other roller coaster. You are the embodiment of change.
It is interesting that workplaces are now catching up. Many companies now offer CPR courses and first aid classes. Some employers even incorporate it into the induction process. It’s more than just checking the boxes during safety audits. It’s all about creating a confident workforce in the face of emergencies.
What are you holding back? Time? Time? Most courses take a few short hours and are spread over several days. And what about the skills acquired? These skills last a life time. You can think of it as upgrading your life-skills.
Don’t be afraid to embrace this knowledge. No cape is required to be a heroic person; only a bit training and a willingness act. Do not just sigh when you see a sign for a First Aid Class. Sign up. You owe this to yourself and those around you.