Human suffering still remains universal. From war injuries to everyday road and household accidents, first aid is most important. First aid is a very effective means of helping someone. When people sustain a serious injury, and if no one performs first aid, the person could die before emergency responders arrive. First aid is defined as giving immediate medical assistance. It’s often given until full medical treatment is available. The first step of providing first aid is recognizing that someone needs medical attention. 

World First Aid Day

World First Aid Day is observed on the second Saturday of September every year to create awareness about the importance of first aid in preventing injuries and saving lives. The day was started by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in 2000 to educate people in the world about the benefits of first aid, the need for first aid, and the right way to do it. 

Theme

According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the theme of World First Aid Day 2021 is “First aid and road safety”. It also promotes the accessibility of first aid. On this day, more than 100 Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies organize events around the globe. These events and ceremonies increase awareness for first aid and the lives it can save. These events also encourage the general public to learn first aid and to obtain first aid certification. 

Statistics

According to a report of Times of India, nearly 27% of deaths account for the need for medical attention. In another report, nearly 50% of road accident deaths could have been prevented if primary care was given to the victim within the hour of injury. A timely provided first aid can be the difference between life and death. This clearly states that there is a high need for first aid trained people.

Importance of first aid

When first aid is given to an injured person, it can do the following things:

Improve the chance of full recovery and prevent permanent disabilities. Shorten the length of hospital stays. Prevent bad medical situations from getting worse. Reduce unnecessary visits to the hospital. Relieve the physical and emotional pain of the patient. Provide a crucial means of communication to emergency responders.

The right knowledge of first aid will help reduce injuries and deaths. This will also reduce the impact of disasters, calamities, and daily emergencies to a great extent. Let’s pledge to be a life savior or a hero by learning and providing first aid in case of emergencies and give life a second chance.