Summer Safety Reminder

CPR & First Aid Essentials

The summer months are upon us, and with increased outdoor fun and activity, it’s the perfect time for a quick safety refresher. This is your reminder to review your First Aid Kit and brush up on CPR basics - simple steps that could save a life.

Why CPR Matters

If CPR is performed immediately after cardiac arrest, it can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.

And here’s a staggering stat: 73% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen at home.

Let’s make sure we’re prepared to act if needed.

How Is CPR Performed?

There are two types of CPR:

1. Conventional CPR

For healthcare providers and those trained in CPR, this involves chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth breaths at a ratio of 30:2.

For adults, compressions should be:

• 100 to 120 per minute

• At least 2 inches deep, but no more than 2.4 inches

2. Hands-Only CPR

For bystanders witnessing an adult or teen collapse in a public or home setting:

• Perform compression-only CPR - just chest compressions, no mouth-to-mouth.

• This is simple, effective, and can be lifesaving.

What Is High-Quality CPR?

Anyone, even untrained bystanders, can perform high-quality CPR. Keep these 5 key points in mind:

1. Minimize interruptions in chest compressions

2. Compress at the proper rate and depth

3. Avoid leaning between compressions

4. Use correct hand placement

5. Do not over-ventilate

Is Your First Aid Kit Ready?

Injuries are the leading cause of death for Canadians aged 1 to 44 - and more children under 19 die from injury than all other causes combined.

Good news: Canadians with First Aid training reduce their own risk of injury by up to 30%.

Store your First Aid Kit in a temperature-controlled environment - not in the bathroom or kitchen. Here’s what to include:

Wound Care

• Adhesive bandages (various sizes)

• Sterile gauze pads and rolls

• Antiseptic wipes or alcohol-based solution

• Antibacterial ointment (e.g., Polysporin)

• Tweezers

• Medical tape

Bandaging & Support

• Elastic bandages (for sprains)

• Triangular bandages (can be used as slings)

Medications

• Antacids

• Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl - helpful if a guest has an allergic reaction)

• Baby aspirin (can assist during suspected heart attack)

• Check expiry dates regularly!

Tools & Supplies

• Scissors

• Thermometer

• Hand sanitizer

• Disposable gloves

• Eye wash solution

Other Helpful Items

• First Aid manual

• Emergency contact information (especially if you live alone - include household medications for paramedics)

• Flashlight

• Safety pins

• Naloxone Kit - You can order one for free here:

  
  

Did You Know?

Only 18% of Canadians are certified in First Aid and CPR - yet 40% have been in a situation where it was needed.

If you’re not certified yet, consider taking a course with the Canadian Red Cross. It’s a powerful skill that could save the life of someone you love.

Let’s keep our homes safer this summer and our loved ones protected.