More Kiwis Encouraged To Take Up First Aid

More Kiwis Encouraged To Take The First Aid Challenge

On the occasion of World First Aid Day (Saturday 11 September), NZ Red Cross is challenging more Kiwis to take part in first aid training over the coming year.

“First aid continues to provide a low-cost and simple tool in protecting and saving lives,” said NZ Red Cross Director General, Flora Gilkison.

“First aid gives people the ability to respond to injury and illness at home, at work, or on the sports field.”

“First aid training also means there will be a pool of people in the community with the knowledge and skills to respond if disaster strikes.”

Each year, NZ Red Cross trains more than 70,000 people in first aid. While most undertake commercial courses, many other courses are provided free of charge or at reduced rates to vulnerable groups, such as schoolchildren, refugees and people with intellectual and physical disabilities.

“We want to encourage as many New Zealanders as possible to rise to the challenge of first aid training,” said Mrs Gilkison. “Learning even the most simple tasks can make the difference between life and death.”

Globally, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies estimates that tens of millions of lives are saved each year by first aid techniques applied by neighbours or bystanders to victims of accidents or disasters.

To book first training, people can ring 0800 RED CROSS (0800 733 276)

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