Lawn mower blades. Opening pools. Sun exposure.
Summer may have just started, but it will bring with it its own set of hazards as the outdoors green up and the weather begins to warm. There’s no time like the present to brush up on first aid supplies, training and more.
You typically only have to have CPR certification if you’re in some kind of interpersonal employment where you oversee the wellbeing of others, such as education, residential care or childcare. However, getting certified is an asset – “minutes matter,” says the American Red Cross, and it’s true. Having the knowledge can mean the difference between life or death.
Every teen old enough to do so – and certainly every competent adult – should have their first aid certification. The most comprehensive training for CPR and first aid is through the American Red Cross. They offer on-site and online trainings for first aid, CPR and AED protocols. (Although AEDs are fairly limited to certain public/high-traffic locations, it’s helpful to know how to use the machine – again, you could save someone’s life).
The Red Cross site offers a helpful search function that will assist you in finding classes near you. In addition to the mentioned trainings, they also have trainings focused on babysitting and childcare safety, lifeguarding and water safety.
The Red Cross is not the only entity that offers these certifications. The American Heart Association offers some first aid and CPR training resources. The National CPR Foundation does as well. Occasionally local municipalities or educational entities like a nearby community college or university will also setup and offer certification courses. A quick internet search can usually locate good options nearby.
While there is some debate over whether it’s best to build your own or purchase a first aid kit that’s already been assembled, both options are available. Kits in a variety of sizes can be purchased online or at most retailers. However, if you would prefer to build your own kit, this article from the Mayo Clinic has some good pointers.
No matter where the weather takes you, make sure to stay safe this season.
Additional resources:
Water safety for Kids (Red Cross)
Addressing heat exhaustion (Mayo Clinic)
Initial burn first aid (American Burn Assoc.)
Initial wound care (Red Cross)
Initial broken bone first aid (Mayo Clinic)
Initial poison exposure response (HRSA)
