There’s all sorts of mobile productivity applications you should have on your smart phone, but the Canadian Red Cross has a life-saving app that’s worth downloading as well.
It’s their free First Aid App for Android and Apple devices with instructions for everyday scenarios.
The agency is reminding people about the app because November is CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) month when it urges Canadians to take a CPR course to help someone suffering a heart attack.
You wouldn’t be expected to pull out your smart phone and consult the app in the middle of an emergency – although you might hand it to someone to search for relevant information while you try to help someone in need. However, the app would likely be useful for brushing up on skills while you’re doing something else – sitting on a public transit vehicle or doing the laundry – so you’re prepared if necessary.
Users have access the videos as well as step-by-step advice.
Nearly 40 per cent of Canadians say they have been in an emergency situation where they had to perform first aid, the agency says. Only 15 per cent say they could help someone suffering from a heart attack.