Blog Article: World First Aid Day 2025

This year, Saturday 13th of September marks ‘World First Aid Day’, a timely reminder of the importance of being prepared for medical emergencies. Accidents can happen anywhere—at work, at home, or while out and about—and having the right knowledge and skills can mean the difference between life and death.

Ask yourself: “Would I know what to do if a loved one needed first aid?” If your answer is anything other than a confident yes, it might be time to upskill.

Formal Training and Community Involvement

Formal first aid training should be PHECC (Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council) accredited. In the workplace, this typically involves completing a 3-day PHECC FAR (First Aid Responder) course, with a 2-day refresher every 2 years to retain your qualification. These courses equip you with essential skills to respond effectively in emergencies and help create safer environments for everyone.

Beyond the Workplace Training

Beyond the workplace, consider getting involved in your local community. Many towns and villages are training Community First Responders (CFRs) who provide crucial support while waiting for the ambulance. The National First Responder Network, CFR Ireland, is a great place to start if you want to make a real difference locally.

There are plenty of reputable resources available online. Reliable sources such as PHECC, Irish Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, and the Irish Heart Foundation provide guidance and practical tips to help you learn the essentials of first aid.

Learn First Aid – Make a Difference. Being prepared not only boosts your confidence in emergencies but could also save a life.