First Aid

Read blog posts from the Canadian Red Cross about First Aid and CPR

Latest Posts

Rescuer Award presented to Newfoundland and Labrador man for saving friend with CPR during basketball game

Adam Boyles holding his rescuer award

Adam Boyles of St. John’s was recently honoured with a Rescuer Award from the Canadian Red Cross for intervening and performing CPR after his friend John McDermott experienced cardiac arrest on a basketball court at the YMCA in St. John’s in March 2023.

Adam Boyles holding his rescuer award

How CPR is not like in the movies

A person in a red shirt performing chest compressions on a CPR training mannequin

CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is depicted in many ways on-screen, often for the benefit of the movie or show’s drama or timeframe.
Instead of focusing on how incorrectly CPR can be depicted, we want to focus on the accuracy of a few simple steps – steps which could save lives.

A person in a red shirt performing chest compressions on a CPR training mannequin

Debunking myths around performing CPR

A woman performing chest compressions on a man laying on the ground with his eyes closed.

There are many beliefs or myths that can and do stop people from helping another individual in distress, such as cardiac arrest. In fact, seven out of 10 cardiac arrests happen in front of bystanders, however less than 20% of bystanders end up providing first aid.

A woman performing chest compressions on a man laying on the ground with his eyes closed.

Slips, trips and falls: How to stay safe in icy weather

Downward view of legs standing on ice

In many parts of the country, winter means icy roads and sidewalks.  With ice comes an increased risk of falls and injury. Here are some tips on how to lessen the risk of falls in icy conditions.

Downward view of legs standing on ice

10 tips to reduce common risks this holiday season

A string of colourful lights lying on the floor

Every year people fall off ladders while hanging decorations, cut themselves while wrapping presents, and trip over electric cables or toys left on floors. There are instances of children or pets swallowing small ornaments, and even electrical shocks from holiday tree lights. So, we’ve put together 10 tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe and merry over the holidays. 

A string of colourful lights lying on the floor

2022 holiday gift guide: for a stress-free giving (and receiving!) season

Two hands with red nail polish hold a holiday gift

The season of hot chocolates, slippers and cozy blankets is here. This year, the Canadian Red Cross is making it easier for you with our 2022 holiday gift guide for a stress-free gift giving (and receiving) season.

Two hands with red nail polish hold a holiday gift

Not everyone experiences chest pain during a heart attack 

An elderly woman sitting on a couch looking distressed with an elderly man sitting beside her looking concerned

If you witnessed a family member who has stopped breathing and is unresponsive, would you know what to do? Fewer than half of Canadians say they have the skills to help in this common and life-threatening emergency.

An elderly woman sitting on a couch looking distressed with an elderly man sitting beside her looking concerned

10 ways for your child to stay safe this Halloween

An image of a young girl in a witch costume with text: The Canadian Red Cross wishes you a safe Halloween

While Halloween should be full of fun and excitement, here are some tips to keep festivities as safe as possible for participating kids.

An image of a young girl in a witch costume with text: The Canadian Red Cross wishes you a safe Halloween

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The purpose of this blog, quite simply, is to talk. This blog is an opportunity for Red Cross staff, volunteers, supporters and friends to share stories about what is happening in your community and the important work you are doing. It is a tool that will help keep all of us connected.

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