Turn your phone into a lifesaver

Australians are more time poor than ever with one in five first aiders stating ‘lack of time’ as a key reason for failing to renew their certification. In the lead-up to World first Aid Day (14 September), Red Cross has released a free First Aid App to make learning First Aid on the go an easy option for smartphone users.

With more than 2 million downloads from the US and UK to date, the comprehensive app is a tried and tested resource which guides users through the correct response for many incidents including heart attacks, strokes, diabetic episodes along with the more common burns, sprains and strains.

Localised for the Australian market, the app can be used anywhere, anytime and is a good tool to support the skills acquired through First Aid training from Red Cross College.

“Initial feedback from students downloading the app has been fantastic,” says Red Cross National First Aid Advisor Dan Coad. “The biggest relief for people once trained is that they no longer feel helpless. This app makes it easy for people to keep their first aid skills fresh and it’s so simple and easy to use, my kids have even had a go.”

The smartphone app, available through Google Play or the App stores, features vital lifesaving information, videos and quizzes to test your first aid knowledge on correct treatments for children and adults.

Learning the skills to save a life through first aid training is one thing, but remembering what to do when under pressure is where this app can help most. To download the app or find out more about first aid training, visit redcross.org.au/first-aid-app.aspx.