In Case Of Emergency, Read Blog

That’s the question asked on the American Red Cross’ Blog by Abi Weaver after the release of a new report by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, “First Aid For A Safer Europe”. Among the report’s recommendations is that first aid be made compulsory in European nations. In her post, Weaver writes:

“This year, our Red Cross colleagues in Europe pulled together a report about first aid trends that made us think – most would agree that first aid skills are fundamentally important, but what really motivates people to take a class?

The report tells us that, at least in Europe, it’s partly because they have to. First aid training is required for people who drive, work in industrial settings and care for children in many countries.

This bold approach means that Europeans are better prepared than most for a roadside accident, household emergency or workplace disaster. For example, the survey showed 95 percent of the population in Norway is trained in first aid. Close behind are Germany and Austria with 80 percent. And Iceland can boast that 75 percent of its people are trained. (Another set of trivia for your weekend social events)

Many U.S. states have also enacted laws that require CPR training for teachers and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) be placed in public buildings, but what do you think? Should first aid training be required in the United States?”

In an interview last month, former U.S. Homeland Security Secretary recommended the development of a course for U.S. schools on planning and preparation which would include teaching first aid. The Red Cross blog is currently running an online poll on the question of compulsory first aid training.