Having a portable defibrillator on site is the first step to saving a life but it doesn’t end there. Did you know creating a routine maintenance program and adhering to that program is the only way to be sure that it is ready to use? Defibrillators are the only item that can reliably help resume normal cardiac function, so it is important that such a device works when you need it. For most office environments, most manufacturers recommend checking your device once a month, making a note of any replacements that are required during the course of the inspection and …
How and Why an AED Can Save Lives in Ontario
What is an Automated External Defibrillator? If you haven’t heard by now, an AED is a medical device that is designed to restore a normal heartbeat to a distressed individual by sending a corrective electric pulse to their heart. It may be used to stop or correct an arrhythmia, which is a heartbeat that is irregular, too slow, or too fast. Though it may seem intimidating at first, these devices have been tailored for public use and require minimal training. Many health and safety-conscious companies are placing defibrillators in their workspaces, so read on and learn how to use an …
Halloween Safety Tips
Halloween Safety Tips Trick-or-Treat! Halloween is just around the corner so the First Aid Canada Team is here to provide you with some safety tips to enjoy your night to the fullest, as well as safest: Tips for Children Trick or treat with you parents and/or groups of people If you are heading out without your parents be sure to give enough time to return home by curfew Wear reflective clothing or that which is vibrant colours Avoid wearing masks, opt for face paints instead Wait to cross the street at lights and cross walks and avoid from walking out …
Defibrillators Save Lives in Schools
Defibrillators Save Lives in Schools Having an AED onsite at school can mean the difference between life and death. Being September we felt it was important to go into detail of the value of having a defibrillator onsite within schools. Age Doesn’t Matter There is a common misconception when it comes to cardiac arrest, often people believe it can only occur in aging or unhealthy adults, when quite commonly children can suffer from sudden cardiac arrest. Often when cardiac arrest occurs in children it is related to a heart condition that had not yet been recognized or diagnosed, so a …
Checklist: Summer Roadtrip
Checklist: Summer Roadtrip The Summer brings beautiful weather and vacations! Whether you’ve planned a roadtrip up to cottage country or one across the country this checklist will come in handy: Route Check Before heading out on your adventure be sure to check the road conditions ahead, such as those affected by weather or accidents. There are apps such as Waze, which can come in very handy, even on a shorter commute to work. Waze is a GPS app which will alert you of smaller road conditions such as potholes, but also larger issues such as traffic jams or accidents. Vehicle Check …
How to Stay Safe in the Sun & Treat Burns
How to Stay Safe in the Sun & Treat Burns As the weather heats up it’s important to keep sun safety in mind. Although the sun can be very enjoyable it’s important to understand the negative effects of prolonged exposure and how you can prevent it from causing you discomfort or long term effects. Suntans and Sunburns Although it may be your summer goal, suntans are dangerous as they are a version of sun damage. Consistent or lengthy unprotected exposure to the sun can cause moderate to severe sunburns (ie. Radiation Burns). Even though suntans/burns do heal over time, prolonged …
How to Respond to an Emergency
How to Respond to an Emergency: Step-by-Step Would you know how to handle an emergency? Here is a brief step-by-step guide to remind you how to handle yourself and others when it comes to an emergency situation: Remain Calm The most important thing when facing an emergency is to remain calm. Remaining calm will help anyone else involved in the situation present their selves in the best way to move forward to help those affected and potentially save lives. Keep People Away from the Site and Situation When an emergency occurs it can draw a lot of attention. It is …
Spring Hiking Checklist
Spring Hiking Checklist Happy First Day of Spring! It’s nearing that time for ideal hiking conditions: not too hot, not too cold, lots of greenery, blooms and if you’re lucky some wildlife (friendly wildlife of course)! We want you to be prepared for all of the adventures in the paths ahead. Here’s our Safe Hiking Checklist: Have you packed enough food and water? Hiking causes your body to expend a significant amount of energy even when your hike is short. Be sure to bring enough food to feed not only your energy levels, but others you are hiking with as …
What Should I Know Before Choosing an AED
What Should I Know Before Choosing an AED? Shopping for a defibrillator can seem quite intimidating due to all of the different models, manufacturers and high prices. First Aid Canada is happy to provide four different types of defibrillators; all of which are trustworthy, easy to use and set at appropriate prices. This blog is designed to help you discover the best defibrillator for your life and your needs. Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator Philips HeartStart Onsite Automated External Defibrillators are the perfect life-saving device for public spaces such as community centers and sports arenas. Just like the Philips HeartStart Home …
Family First Aid & Heart Safety in the Home
Family First Aid & Heart Safety in the Home Because it is officially #HeartMonth 2018 the First Aid Canada team feels it is important to kindly address safety within the home. The home is a place we spend a large amount of our time each day and night. Both family and friends will continually be guests the home so it is important to be prepared with a first aid kit and an automated external defibrillator. Below you will find our reccomendations for transforming your home into a fully prepared and safe one! First Aid Kits & Supplies First Aid Canada is …
How to Handle Burns Over The Holidays
How to Handle Burns Over The Holidays Burns can occur more frequently over the holidays due to hazards such as Christmas lights, candles and holiday cooking. To prevent hospital visits it’s important to be prepared in the home to treat yourself if any burn-related accidents occur. First Aid Canada offers a few different options in regards to burn treatment: via GIPHY Water-Jel Cool Jel Water-Jel Cool Jel is a gel formulation that works quickly in emergency situations by cooling and soothing the inflicted area. The non-toxic and non-irritating gel formula also provides a protective barrier against bacteria to ensure protection against …
Holiday Home Safety Checklist
Holiday Home Safety Checklist With the winter season just around the corner it is important to think ahead and be prepared for what the cold weather entails… In addition to Winter Road Safety, the First Aid Canada team feels in is important to address safety within the home. While family and friends frequent the house more during the holidays it is important to be prepared with an adequate first aid kit and possibly an automated external defibrillator. Whether it be Dad burning himself trying to help Mom out on the stove or stubbing a toe playing house hockey with cousins an …