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World First Aid Day: Don’t Wait, Act Fast
World First Aid Day on September 13 is a reminder that every second counts in an emergency. Whether it’s a sudden cardiac arrest, choking, or a severe injury, the difference between life and death often lies in how quickly someone nearby reacts.
That’s why we want to highlight the importance of the Chain of Survival, a series of critical steps that can drastically increase a person’s chance of survival.
Understanding the Chain of Survival
The “Chain of Survival” is made up of four key links:
- Recognize the emergency and call 911
- Early recognition is the first step. Quick action alerts emergency services and gets help on the way.
- Start CPR immediately
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) keeps blood and oxygen flowing to the brain and vital organs until advanced care arrives.
- Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
- A shock delivered by an AED within the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest can restart the heart. Easy-to-use and designed for the public, AEDs are lifesaving tools that anyone can operate.
- Advanced care arrives
- Emergency medical professionals continue lifesaving treatment and transport the patient to the hospital.
Each link is essential—but without bystanders who are trained and ready to act, the chain can break.
Why every minute matters
During a cardiac arrest, a victim’s chance of survival drops by 7 to 10% for every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation. After just a few minutes, the likelihood of survival is slim.
That’s why immediate action, calling 911, starting CPR, and using an AED, is critical. Acting fast doesn’t just help, it saves lives.
The Role of training
Too often, people hesitate to act because they’re afraid of doing something wrong. But training makes the difference. When you’ve practiced CPR and AED use, your response becomes instinctive. You’re confident. You know what to do.
First aid training empowers you to be the lifeline in a moment of crisis. It equips workplaces, families, and communities to protect each other when it matters most.
The importance of being prepared
Training alone isn’t enough, you also need the right tools close at hand. AEDs, first aid kits, and accessible medical equipment make it possible for trained responders to act quickly.
That’s why Rescue 7 is committed to making both training and equipment available to organizations and individuals across Canada. Our goal is simple: to ensure that no one is left helpless in an emergency.
Take action this World First Aid Day
The best way to celebrate World First Aid Day is to make sure you’re prepared. Get trained, get equipped, and encourage your workplace, school, or community to do the same.
Don’t wait. Act fast. Be the difference that saves a life.
Explore our first aid courses to gain the skills you need, and visit the Rescue 7 online store to equip yourself with AEDs, first aid kits, and other lifesaving equipment.