By Charles Dart, Canadian Red Cross Digital Volunteer
With the New Year just around the corner, it’s time to make new resolutions (and finally get around to doing the ones you were supposed to do in 2018)! For 2019, take it upon yourself to create a more safe and selfless year with the following resolutions.
1. Become a volunteer
Whether it be with us here at the
Canadian Red Cross, at a health facility, or with a youth group, volunteering can be a challenging yet a
very rewarding activity. It is a selfless act that is great for building personal and teamwork skills. For high school and university students, it is a great way to help build your resume! You can even
volunteer remotely if you meet the necessary qualifications.
2. Learn First Aid and CPR
It could save your life or another person’s life. Knowing
First Aid and
CPR gives you an advantage in your day-to-day life as you will be able to help in case of an emergency, from the smallest of cuts to a broken leg.
3. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Do you remember when you last changed the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms? Your installed smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should be on every level of your home. Test the alarms every month and replace the batteries twice a year, at daylight savings time (March and November).
4. Put together personal emergency and first aid kits
Be prepared in advance of any potential emergency. Have an
emergency kit in your home and place a
first aid kit in your vehicle.
5. Enroll yourself or a loved one in a safety or educational course
Psychological First Aid, Swimming and Water Safety Lessons, Stay Safe! (9-13), or Babysitting (11-15) are just some of many courses offered by the Canadian Red Cross. A full list of courses can be found on our
website.
6. Stay in touch and informed with the Canadian Red Cross
Follow the Canadian Red Cross on all our
social media platforms to follow what we are doing in 2019 and beyond. Be sure to download the
Canadian Red Cross First Aid App to always have life-saving advice wherever you are.
Remember to have a safe and prosperous New Year!