World First Aid Day 2003

Africa / Americas and the Caribbean / Asia and the Pacific / Europe / Middle East and North Africa

The following pages will be regularly updated as and when reports come in from National Societies across the world

AFRICA


Benin
For First Aid Day 2003, the Benin Red Cross celebrated under the theme ‘First Aid – a gesture of humanity which makes the difference’. Volunteers and staff across the country were encouraged to join in activities to help raise awareness in communities

Cote d’Ivoire
A public awareness campaign was carried out to help raise public awareness about First Aid education.

Ethiopia
Activities took place in Addis Abba and throughout the country to celebrate World Aids Day. In the capital, volunteers and staff joined to stage a variety of initiatives including the deployment of ten ambulances around the city which acted as ‘bases’ for dissemination of information and the posting of banners around the city to publicize the days events and messages.

The public enjoyed lively dissemination of messages from the Red Cross music group of Addis Ababa and through performance of cultural songs, and poetry.
In addition, a First Aid tour and photography exhibition took place and First Aid demonstrations were carried out by first aiders.


Kenya
In Kenya, a variety of awareness-raising events were carried out by the Kenya Red Cross Society including public events and through the media. Leading up to World First Aid Day 2003, on Tuesday 9 September, the Nairobi Children’s Park was the venue for exhibitions and first aid simulations to help train children in road safety awareness. The following day a convoy of trucks and Land cruisers traveled around 6 major shopping centres in Nairobi to pass on first aid messages to the general public through first aid simulations, performances of skits and poems and marketing of first aid products and services.

On the day itself, exhibitions, simulations, speeches and performances were held in a city-centre park, attracting plenty of attention from the general public!

Nigeria
In Nigeria, all thirty-seven Red Cross branches carried out different activities to celebrate the day

Rwanda
Due to the recent election period in Rwanda, the national First Aid Day celebrations will be arranged at a later date. During the election period, volunteers were on hand at campaign and election centers throughout the country, offering First Aid services. A total of about 2500 community based First Aid (CBFA) trained Volunteers were mobilised for the exercise.

On 12 September, more than 1000 CBFA trained volunteers were selected to be placed on alert at the National Stadium (Amahoro), where President-elect Paul Kagame was sworn in.

In recognition of First Aid day, a special radio-programme was broadcast covering First Aid issues and a First Aid poem and discussion was broadcast.


Seychelles
The National Society organized a number of activities to commemorate the first World First Aid day including a live radio program produced in collaboration with local media aimed at raising public awareness. Youth members of the Red Cross also got involved distributing flags and information to the public. A certificate presentation ceremony also took place to congratulate a new group of First Aiders who have just completed a First Aid course.

Sierra Leone
In Sierra Leone, Red Cross staff and volunteers marched through all the district branches to celebrate World First Aid Day. First aid simulations and presentations were carried out and first aid materials distributed. The Red Cross activities were well represented in the media with radio jingles, radio discussions and newspaper coverage.


Somalia
In Somalia, the Baidoa branch ran a number of interesting activities. Red Crescent volunteers and staff, representatives from the women’s association, artists and elders attended a ceremony at the Red Crescent volunteer premises.

The activities programme started with recital of verses from the Holy Koran and was followed by a quiz competition on First Aid and health education issues, an egg-and-spoon race, a volley ball match and three first aid demonstrations. Prizes were distributed to the winners and an enjoyable day was had by all!


Uganda
For World First Aid Day 2003, the Uganda Red Cross Society in collaboration with the Police, Fire brigade and Shell Ltd organised a mock rescue exercise at one of the several Shell fuel outlets in Kampala, simulating a fire outbreak at the fuel station and the action following such an outbreak.The Uganda Red Cross Society provided an ambulance, 10 First Aiders and the simulation materials.

The exercise was carried out in the City center at one of the busiest fuel outlet stations and provided an opportunity for all the partners to test their preparedness and raised the profile of URCS as a major player in First Aid in the country.
The exercise also involved the hospital in the City to take the casualties and hence helped to build preparedness and coordination mechanisms in case such an emergency occurred.




Zambia
Across Zambia, 70 Red Cross branches participated in activities including emergency response demonstrations, a first aid competition, exhibitions of National Society activities and programmes, a World First Aid day march and entertainment such as drama and dance performances.

Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, activities took place across the country, reaching an estimated 7 million through direct action and through the media. The Week beginning 7 September was declared, “First aid week” by the Zimbabwe Red Cross. During this week a total of 12 first aid campaigns were conducted in 2 Provinces. These campaigns targeted schools, teachers colleges, shopping malls, police camps, hospitals, army camps and industries. Radio and TV programmes were also conducted to help promote First Aid. On World First Aid Day itself, events kicked off with a 2 km procession by Red Cross volunteers and staff, fire and ambulance services, the air force of Zimbabwe Band and some drum majorettes. This was followed by a First Aid quiz, First Aid demonstrations and a main address by the Director of the Civil Protection Unit of Zimbabwe.


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AMERICAS AND THE CARIBBEAN

Caribbean:

Barbados
The Barbados Red Cross held successful World First Aid Day displays and demonstrations at various venues across the island. Events were coordinated by Mr. Michael Grant, Supervisor with the Red Cross Ambulance Service and Red Cross First Aid personnel provided First Aid demonstrations on how to assist people when they are choking, having difficulty breathing, as well as to bandage cuts and broken limbs. The First Aid staff also assisted Nurses who conducted blood sugar and blood pressure tests.

Dominican Republic
As part of the Dominican Red Cross celebrations, a marathon was organized on the front sea road in Santo Domingo, with a well-known sports journalist, and some sports VIPs taking part. In addition, First Aid exhibitions were held by volunteers.

Grenada
On the morning of September 13, simulation exercises were held in a popular marketplace. The scenarios used for the exercise were ‘a visitor to the island has a seizure and needed assistance’ and ‘a youngster has fallen and sustained a large cut with a bone protruding’ - receives first aid assistance.(repeated). In the afternoon a display forum and demonstration were held in a popular shopping centre. First Aid pockets, kits and coupons for training were given away freely.


Guyana
In Guyana, the Red Cross organized a walkathon and placed messages in newspapers and on TV to help raise First Aid awareness.

Jamaica
Red Cross volunteers and staff, the Ministry of Health, St John’s Ambulance, the University of the West Indies Emergency Health Department, emergency medical teams and the general public joined together to celebrate First Aid Day in a lively and motivated way! A large ‘Chain of Help’ was formed and everyone sang Bob Marley’s ‘One Love’ while holding hands.


Montserrat
In Montserrat the Red Cross activities were highlighted on ZJB Radio.

St. Kitts and Nevis
A simulation of a traffic accident was staged. Groups involved in the simulation included the Police, Fire Brigade, Accident & Emergency Department (hospital), the Red Cross and media representatives.

Saint Lucia
A committee comprising the Fire Service, Police Department, Accident and Emergency service, St. John's Ambulance, national media and the Red Cross collaborated for a week of educational activities from Sept 8 to 13. On the day itself, a simulation exercise was held at the Town Square with all collaborative agencies taking part. A small exhibition was held at the same time and Fire service safety equipment was displayed.


Central America:

Costa Rica
On Saturday 13 September, in a simple but very symbolic act, Red Cross staff and volunteers invited all those involved with disaster preparedness and response activities - be they volunteers, staff, community leaders, medical personnel - to join hands to form a human chain to symbolise world solidarity.


Guatemala
In the attempt to attain wide coverage of First Aid programmes, promote First Aid and attract new volunteers – particularly youth volunteers - the Guatemalan Red Cross were actively involved in celebrations! First Aid simulations took place and there was a very interesting event at the national headquarters where there was a simulation of a ‘rescue’ of a young television presenter! Other activities were also staged at the headquarters with booths providing information on First Aid. Across the country, activities were talks in colleges and school, simulations in central parks and public areas. The National Society is also planning to print a leaflet on First Aid for the general public which will include general notes on First Aid, promotion of Red Cross clinics and will give those interested the chance to get more information on becoming volunteers.

Honduras
On 12 September, Radio Globo dedicated a one and a half hour radio spot during their prestigious educational programme to celebrate World First Aid Day. As part of the broadcast, Honduras Red Cross instructor M. Reynaldo Urbina spoke about First Aid to help raise listeners’ awareness about its importance.


Panama
The Panama Red Cross produced a special publication about First Aid which was distributed on a national level. Volunteers took part in TV programmes and reports throughout the day, as well as First Aid simulations– all intended to raise the profile of First Aid and its importance. With the minister of youth, young volunteers also took part in a day to raise awareness about health and blood pressure on Friday 12 September.


North America:

Canada
The National office will issue a press release and highlight the occasion on the Canada Red Cross web site. In local branches, media representatives were invited to attend a course focusing on the importance of learning First Aid and how the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement trains people to help others in 179 countries across the globe


South America:

Bolivia
For the last few weeks the Bolivian Red Cross has been running an advocacy and prevention campaign on first aid through the media. First Aid trainers have organised a first aid training course for People Living with HIV/AIDS in co-ordination with the National Workers Association and Response to HIV/AIDS (Colectivo Nacional de Trabajo y Respuesta al VIH/SIDA)

On September 14th, in the capital downtown, Red Cross volunteers provided people with practical advice on First Aid. At the end of the day the participants received a certificate and were invited to participate in a Red Cross First Aid course.

Chile
In Chile, celebrations took place on Monday 15 September with various demonstrations and activities taking place in the 'Plazo de Armas de Santiago' in the city centre. Volunteers and staff got involved by distributing materials and information about First Aid and accident prevention.




Ecuador
The Ecuadorian Red Cross in co-ordination with Civil Defence, firemen, the emergency services and other relief organisations, organised a rally procession of cars in the city on September 13th, which finished with a First Aid simulation in one of the squares of the historical centre of Quito.





Peru
“When my daughter was four years old, she swallowed a screw and began to choke. I was so desperate that I put my hand down her throat and pulled out the screw causing her an injury. If I had known first aid I could have avoided the damage by just making her cough in the fist place,” said a woman after a young Peruvian Red Cross volunteer described what to do when somebody is choking at the First Aid Day activities in Peru. As volunteers explained, these are simple lessons that can help save lives – no medical skills are needed and simple actions can make the difference between life and death.

On Saturday 13th September, more than 50 volunteers from the Peruvian Red Cross took to Lima’s city streets to carry out short first aid workshops and raise public awareness. Families, cyclists, shoppers, old people and children took a break from their morning walks to learn some life saving techniques. “It is important to disseminate first aid knowledge to the public. This knowledge is indispensable for daily emergencies,” said Edgardo Calderon, the Peruvian Red Cross President.

Venezuela
On September 13th, Venezuelan Red Cross volunteers took to the main shopping centres in every city where they distributed brochures to the visitors in order to stress the importance of getting general knowledge on first aid. In total, 50,000 brochures were distributed. At the same time, in 15 Venezuelan Red Cross branches, First Aid simulations were carried out involving relief groups, emergency brigades of different companies, Civil Defence and fire-fighters.


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ASIA AND PACIFIC

Afghanistan
In Kabul, a 400-strong crowd marched through the city with slogans and banners, spreading the word about first aid. At 11 o clock, a ‘Human Chain of Help’ took place, stretching all around the school compound where the ARCS youth and CBFA marchers and others had gathered. “It (the Chain of help) is a symbolic display of getting together of all people and organisations active in saving lives," said International Federation Head of Delegation Mr Quoreshi. “The chain of help demonstrated that human beings CAN make a difference if they are united together," he added.

As well as a march there was a street First Aid demonstration, which was so
realistic it even got the policemen running up to help. And last but not least there was a short role play with Community-based First Aiders attending to an injured woman which was also very lively.
active in saving lives."

Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
Throughout the year, the Red Cross Society maintains Community Based First Aid as one of its regular activities emphasises development of this activity. The National Society regularly organises workshops at a branch level for the dissemination of humanitarian principles and First Aid knowledge to volunteers through the Red Cross training network. On the occasion of ‘World First Aid Day’ the Red Cross organised a competition for youth volunteers to evaluate their First Aid skills and disaster response capacity. The competition involved a simulation of safe evacuation of school children during the fire breakout, evaluating participants on how they dealt with this and the First Aid methods used.


Japan
In Japan, the Red Cross demonstrated CPR and homeostasis (stopping of bleeding) techniques in busy areas and streets such as train stations, department stores and shopping malls, parks etc. Targeting younger Red Cross members and the public, First Aid competitions and festivals were also organized. In addition, ‘trial’ First Aid training courses were held in Red Cross hospitals, blood centers and social welfare institutions.

Macau Red Cross
A first aid demo and theatrical performances were staged at a Red Cross promotional campaign which took place at an open city square in the center of Macau. A games booth was also set up to raise awareness.

Myanmar
World First Aid Day was celebrated throughout the country with formal ceremonies, opening exhibitions, booths, essay & painting competitions and public talks on the World Day and the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement.

The event saw Government members, Red Cross local and regional management, staff and volunteers, Red Cross youth, ambulance brigade members and the general public join together to make the day as enjoyable and lively as possible.
A total of 250 local township Red Cross Societies organized events including exhibition booths and First Aid training courses.

The Myanmar Red Cross Society National headquarters organized the Special First Aid Instructor Course – sponsored by the Federation’s Myanmar delegation, which was attended by 45 Red Cross representatives from the states and divisions. The headquarters also held the DART (Disaster Assessment and Response Team) Training Course which was attended by 45 volunteers from chapters in lower Myanmar and government officials responsible for disaster relief and resettlement. The ICRC Myanmar delegation sponsored the course.





Nepal
Raising First Aid awareness in Nepal, Red Cross staff and volunteers took part in a rally and a first aid street drama performance.





South Korea (Republic of )
In South Korea, World First Aid Day was celebrated on September 20. The Red Cross held public demonstrations a popular amusement park in Incheon. The event brought together 20 First Aid instructors, 30 Red Cross Youth members and around 500 spectators. The First Aid technique demonstration was a great opportunity for the public to learn what to do in case of emergency. Elsewhere, the Ulsan, Kyengi and Seoul chapters participated on this event and 5,000 leaflets were distributed.




Pacific region:

Cook Islands
The major activity was a national radio ‘Red Cross First Aid’ quiz which was held at 11am (for adults) and at 1pm (for students). In the ‘adult’ competition, the phone didn’t stop ringing! Twenty-four ministries and workplaces called in and there were 50 questions completed in the one hour allocated. Response was similar for the students’ quiz - 10 out of a possible13 schools called in and they managed 50 questions as well. Feedback from the public has been positive and the Red Cross plan to run another similar quiz in the future.

Indonesia
The Indonesian Red Cross society organized activities in line with a national event held on September 17 which is the Indonesian Red Cross Day.

Kiribati
In Kiribati, the day started with the opening ceremony where the Police Brass Band played the national anthem and an address was given by Minister for Public Works and Utilities. At midday, the Inter Secondary School First Aid competition got underway with teams competing in a Quiz contest and practical assessment to test the six steps of Primary Assessment. Following the contest, prizes were awarded. During the lunch break, a series of fundraising and promotion activities took place, which was followed by a public demonstration of first aid.


New Zealand
The Western Bay Service Centre, Tauranga - part of the Midland Region in New Zealand – set up a First Aid display in the main town area.

Papua New Guinea
In Papua New Guinea, activities began weeks before the actual ‘day’. On September 6 at the Madang branch, community health workers took part in a First Aid awareness course.

From the 2 – 4 Sept, the capital district and central branch conducted basic First Aid training for the Port Moresby soccer association, where 10 club representatives attended the training and were recruited as volunteers.

On the day itself, activities took place at the National Fisheries college auditorium in Kavieng, New Ireland where the auditorium was filled with Drama and singing presentations! Youth volunteers, First Aid instructors and Community Based Self Reliance (CBSR - an initiative that combines First Aid and DP programmes and it specific to the pacific regions) facilitators joined together in performance and sang two songs – one about the history of the Red Cross and a volunteering song called 'Come together volunteers, we’re together'.

Certificates were presented to First Aid instructors by Member of Parliament and minister for welfare and social development, Lady Carol Kidu and Ms Jaqueline Boga, Papua New Guinea Red Cross Secretary General.

CBSR Health component facilitators were presented with certificates by Mr Gronning (Head of Delegation) and Ms Yaku Ninich the current Miss Papua New Guinea Charity Queen!

At 11am everyone joined together to form the human chain of help and Lady Carol Kidu gave a keynote speech. The day also marked the first meeting for the First Aid volunteer instructors committee and reports of how volunteer first aiders have helped save lives in the community were on display during the day.

Samoa
A National First Aid competition took place in Samoa where six teams tested their First Aid knowledge and skills. Simulations of different accident scenarios were set up for the teams to respond to. Thirty volunteers played victims suffering various types of injuries which included choking, knife wounds, spinal injury, dislocation, fractured wound internal bleeding, unconsciousness etc.

Following the competition – which was covered by TV Samoa - First Aid instructors judged that the team from the National Bank of Samoa were the winners! The team received a trophy donated by the Australian High Commissioner and $200. The day ended with a BBQ which was enjoyed by Red Cross staff and volunteers and supporters of the activities.


Singapore
In conjunction with the first-ever World First Aid Day, the Singapore Red Cross organised its annual Red Cross First Aid Competition this year under the motto ‘Seconds Count. Learn First Aid ‘. Held at Toa Payoh HDB Hub on 14 September, the competition not only showcased the skills of first aid trained volunteers and members of the public, it also provided hundreds of people with First Aid tips.

Members of the 24 teams competing in the competition tested their skills through simulations of providing aid to casualties and victims of a house fire, a traffic accident and even a camping accident. These accident scenarios helped highlight the important role first aid plays in saving and prolonging lives, at the same time promoting victim's recovery.

To make the competition as realistic as possible, a smashed-up car was brought into the competition area and the ‘casualties’ were even made up with realistic looking ‘wounds’.

Continuing the First Aid theme, a series of ‘First Aid Readiness Roadshows’ are being carried out by the Red Cross. The roadshows are aimed at further heightening awareness on the importance of being ‘first aid ready’.



Tonga
The Tonga Red Cross opened its celebrations with a reading of the Tonga Red Cross prayer and then proceeded with activities at the headquarters. The National Society chairperson, the Hon Alaileula Tuku’aho, was the guest of honour and gave an address on the importance of First Aid in people’s daily lives. Over 30 volunteers and staff participated and activities received media coverage. One of the events saw previous participants from first aid courses competing in a First Aid competition. There were three teams and each team was given a different scenario to demonstrate their first aid skills. Following this there was a First Aid quiz and once all the points had been totalled up from the two rounds, prizes were awarded to the winners.

Vanuatu
Vanuatu joined in with the World First Aid Day celebrations under the theme ‘First Aid – a gesture of humanity which makes a distance”, focusing on using the media and communications to highlight the importance and value of First Aid. The National Society collaborated with Television and radio companies as well as the press to help emphasise First Aid messages.

The National Society put First Aid training into action as they provided First Aid standby during the Agricultural Show from 14 – 15th August and when taking part in a huge First Aid operation hosted by Uncelo called ‘La poste blue’ at the end of august which involved 700 people. On Saturday 19 September, the National Society also took part in an open Day where basic life saving skills and knowledge was demonstrated.






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EUROPE

Albania
Volunteers, first aid instructors, board members and staff members set up working groups to design activities for the day, choose locations and inform the media. On the day itself, activities took place in 34 local branches and included accident simulations, posting of cards and posters around the city centre, leaflet distribution and small exhibitions. Forty VIPs including government members, businessmen, international organisation representatives, and NGO representatives attended the celebrations and activities were broadcast on national and local TV channels.

Armenia
In Armenia, World First Aid Day coincided with the 7th National Open Competition of First Aid Volunteer Groups of the Armenian Red Cross Society so one of the sections of the competition was dedicated to World First Aid Day. For this section, Red Cross staff and volunteers joined the ambulance services and police to stage a simulation of an accident with the competition participants showing how they would provide First Aid in such a situation.


Azerbaijan
The Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society joined to Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies, celebrating this event worldwide. In spite of the cold, windy weather, more than 200 volunteers from Baku and Sumgait cities and about 100 staff of the Society were gathered in ”Elite” Trade and Entertainment centre. The volunteers were dressed in T-shirts and caps with the Azerbaijan Red Crescent logo, produced by financial support of the ICRC.

The Vice President of the Society, Mr. Gafar Askerzadeh and the Head of Federation Delegation in Azerbaijan Hlin Baldvinsdottir opened the event with congratulations on behalf of all volunteers and staff from 179 National Societies, who jointly with us celebrating this day. They also underlined the importance of this day and once more remind to the participants that first volunteer of the Movement was Henry Dunant. He provided support to the victims of war on the battle of Solferino, putting the base of “the gesture of humanity, which makes the difference”.

After the official part the First Aid Coordinator Fakhri Humbatov presented the program of the events to participants. Fifteen volunteers from Baku and Sumgait, who passed the 3-days training on First Aid, were demonstrated to the participants the First Aid rules during several situations. The first group of volunteers demonstrated the First Aid during car accident. While the one volunteer was assisting the driver, two other volunteers rendered help to suffered passenger and pedestrian. Another group of volunteers demonstrated First Aid rules when sudden asphyxia during ingestion has happened.

3000 brochures and info-leaflets about the Azerbaijan Red Crescent were distributed to the pedestrians on the street, taxi drivers, workers of 'Elite' Centre as well as cashiers for presenting to all buyers who were in the centre on that day and the passengers and drivers in the bus station.

Once more it was repeated to the participants that: “First Aid is not only the technique, but humane attitude and compassion to those, who suffered, providing timely assistance and what is more important, the best way to express the guest of humanity.”

Belgium-Flemish community
Over 100 Red Cross volunteers and staff joined at the ‘Grand Place’ in Lier to promote Red Cross activities. At the inner court, Red Cross demonstrations took place with simulators showing how to act in a crisis situation and how to undertake First Aid in an efficient way. In addition, the fire brigade showed how to extinguish a ‘frying pan’ fire.

Bulgaria
World First Aid Day signified an important point in the development of the Road Safety Campaign in Bulgaria, as the two events were bound together to maximize promotion and awareness raising for both issues. Initially, the event was publicised in the September issue of ‘Automagazine’ which included a detailed overview of the Road Safety Campaign in Bulgaria, with a description of the World First Aid Day activities.

In schools across the country, campaign posters were displayed and the youth sections of the Regional Councils were asked to present action plans for visits of peer leaders to the schools for presenting the issues of road safety and First Aid. From September until the end of November the youth volunteers will carry out workshops with the pupils from the first grades in those schools. The pupils, who had attended the workshops, will formally receive a membership card for the Road Safety Club.

In line with the issues of World First Aid Day, ‘Children Road Safety Days’ (17-21 September) were also organised. These celebrations were carried out in the capital Sofia, but their impact was nationwide.

The Children Road Safety Days were organized together with the Sofia Children Road Safety Centre (at the Capital Municipality). They included a number of public events for the children, taking place over five days. Each day in front of the National Palace of Culture a team of youth volunteers presented a demonstration of First Aid in accident scenarios involving children. Children were encouraged to learn about road safety and first aid through games and quizzes. A competition for filling-in the blank spaces in the campaign comics was announced. Those who demonstrated the best First Aid and Road Safety knowledge will get awards in October.

Elsewhere in the country, in most regions the human chains of help was staged as well as public demonstrations of life-saving first aid in situations like traffic accidents.
In Burgas (one of the biggest towns on the Black Sea shore) a public demonstration of how to administer First Aid in the case of a traffic accident was carried out with the participation of Traffic Police. Campaign materials were distributed.

In Targovishte, volunteers of the Youth Emergency Team organised a public demonstration and a quiz for children on Road Safety.



Croatia
The Croatian Red Cross celebrated World First Aid Day in more than 60 cities. At 11am, a simulation of a traffic accident was staged at the main squares of many cities with aid to the injured provided by Red Cross volunteers, firemen and medical doctors from the emergency squad. A Chain of Help and demonstrations of other First Aid actions were organised, as well as distribution of promotion material and workshops on different kinds of injuries.


Estonia
In Estonia, major activities took place including theoretical and practical First Aid training for the public and First Aid contests which were held at a local level. Information was also disseminated about ‘general conduct in the case of traffic accidents’ and school children were given basic First Aid training.

Finland
This year the theme for World First Aid Day in Finland was to encourage people to get basic skills in First Aid under the motto: "Everyone can help". The Red Cross used the day to remind people how important it is to know how and when to dial 112 (the emergency services number), basic first aid and how to better prevent accidents and the spreading of diseases.

Throughout the day, there were more than ten TV and Radio broadcasts promoting the day and some twenty articles in various newspapers. Red Cross instructors in First Aid and health education were interviewed about the new contents of our basic First Aid training courses.

In addition to more traditional First Aid courses, the new Finnish Red Cross programmes also touch on the prevention of accidents, general health and welfare, HIV/AIDS, drugs and psychosocial support.





France
As in 2002, the French Red Cross carried out a variety of activities across the country. Around 70 regional branches and 600 volunteers were involved in activities aimed at educating 10,000 people. In Paris, the Red Cross organised activities in all 20 districts with a total of 1600 members of the public taking part in a one hour First Aid training session. Elsewhere, in the Parisian suburb if Pantin 300 people took part in the training session and in the South of France one local branch in Sete carried out a full day of activities including training and simulations, working with about 10 partners including the Fire and Police service and health associations.



Hungary
On First Aid Day, while various Red Cross events were taking place in all major cities of Hungary, in Budapest the Red Cross together with the City Motor Club and the National Accident Prevention Committee launched a road safety campaign, specifically targeted at children.

Various programmes were organized for children on this day from 10.00 to 16.00 at the Hungarian Motor Club. They included: Quick First Aid training, Accident simulation exercise, getting acquainted with the Red Cross, blood donor recruitment, “You've only got one life - so take care" - film presentation, Bicycle adventure and endurance course, "Reduce speed and control yourself" program with questions from the driving test Manual, pedaled cars competitions for kids and training of driving techniques.

At 11 a.m. all those who attended the event followed the Red Cross volunteers to make a symbolic human chain of help demonstrating their solidarity with all those who understand the vital importance of the First Aid and are prepared to spread it further in the society.




Iceland
Iceland struggles with high rates of accidents that happen within the home and involving children. For this reason, focus rested heavily on safety in the home and child safety. The Red Cross Society printed and distributed special cards depicting 52 accident prevention messages aimed at families at home. A ‘safety checklist’ focusing on safety in the home was also distributed. A large-scale event was organised in a Reykjavík shopping centre where the fire service demonstrated different safety equipment, emergency rescue teams demonstrated how to dress different kinds of wounds among other events. Pins, reflectors, brochures and information were distributed to the public.

Lithuania
Nearly 600 Lithuanian Red Cross workers and volunteers across the country joined together to mark International First Aid Day. Most local branches concentrated on promotion of first aid techniques and the necessity of training, using road accident simulations to get the messages across to the public. In Silute, thematic lectures were organized at the state Fire and Rescue premises.

To mark the day, seven Red Cross local committees launched the Road Safety campaign under the motto, "You have only got one life... So take care." Activities were concentrated around schools and included first aid competitions for school children and training courses for teachers and parents.

In the city of Kursenai, six organizations including the police, bus drivers and workers from gas and electricity stations competed in a test of first aid techniques. Red Cross workers from Mazeikiai, Panevezys, and Rokiskis local committees stood at crossroads with the road police, reminding people to take better care of safety on the roads. In Mazeikiai, the local committee organized First Aid training for people with disabilities.

"We cannot be alone in our efforts to promote first aid and more safety on the roads and in our lives," said Nijole Ciutiene LRC FA Coordinator. "We need partnerships if we want our voice to be heard by the population and our efforts to have an effect on safer life," she said referring to the LRC partnerships with road police, ambulance service, Fire and Rescue department, Health Ministry, Ministry of Education, Sports and culture centres and local municipalities. All of these partners had an important input in the Red Cross efforts.

Local authorities expressed their support for the Red Cross safety campaign by appearing at the celebrations on the day. National television, radio and press covered the Lithuanian Red Cross events on the day.



Monaco
During high profile events at the Port of Monaco and at the Louis II stadium, the Red Cross staged 50 minutes of First Aid demonstrations. Each person that participated was given a certificate by Prince Albert and a First Aid manual. Children were offered the opportunity to be ‘made-up’ with ‘fake’ wounds such as burns and cuts and a human chain was formed in celebration of the importance of First Aid.


Netherlands
The Netherlands Red Cross produced a special page for their web site and an article for their magazine on the subject of First Aid.


Norwegian Red Cross
Events took place at many local Red Cross branches involving a special stand at which demonstrations were staged. Volunteers and staff took part in four different First Aid simulations dealing with various issues such as how to treat a child who has fallen off her bike and training on how to give CPR.

Posters and balloons were printed to give to children and a fact-sheet on child related accidents and child-road safety was also produced.

Further programmes regarding young people were introduced including a new course for first aid called "First Aid for children's caretakers", which is a combined effort of all organisations represented in the Norwegian First Aid Council (where the Norwegian Red Cross is an active participant). The National Society has also developed a First Aid educational programme for children (8-10y.o.) with a separate teachers guide. This will be offered to all schools free of charge.


Romania
On World first Aid Day, the Herastrau Park in the Romanian capital of Bukharest became the main venue for activities organised by six Red Cross branches. At 11am, Romanian Red Cross workers and volunteers joined hands with ambulance workers, fire fighters and passers by to make the ‘human chain of help’ as a reminder to all that people should be alert, take care and be prepared to help when necessary.

Despite the bad weather that the city suffered that day, Red Cross volunteers enthusiastically simulated a First Aid response to a road accident. During and after the exercise, volunteers and staff distributed leaflets to children and drivers about the European Road Safety Campaign that the Romanian Red cross joined this year.

The Romania Red Cross’ commitment to the First Aid programme was also demonstrated over the summer by the Red Cross branch in Constanta County, whose first aid workers went out to the national resorts of the Black Sea to provide aid to the holiday makers. "For the first time our Red Cross workers had a permanent presence on the entire Romanian seashore," says Mr. Toma Dumitru, branch President. "They were offering first aid services to Romanian people and tourists for free." The project was called "Seashore 2003" and became one of the major activities of the Romanian Red Cross this year.


Slovenia
For the whole month of September, Slovenia has been in a First Aid mood! The Red Cross has joined the EU Road Safety Campaign and organized educational training of the basic First Aid knowledge for children in more than 600 primary schools. Since the beginning of the school year, mentors together with first aid trainers have been teaching children the basics of first aid with help of a manual including instructions how to act in case of an accident and first aid basic steps. The children have been able to practice their new knowledge and skills on reanimation dolls.

September is also a month of regional competitions for First Aid teams. The best team from each region (of 12 regions in total) has an opportunity to join National First Aid competition, which will be held on 11 October in Celje. Already more than half of the teams have already tested their knowledge at a regional level. On World First Aid Day, three regions held a competition.


Slovakia
In Slovakia, it is believed up to nearly one million people were reached by first aid day activities either directly or through the media, due to a large number of people taking to the streets for the visit of the Pope. Red Cross First Aid shows were organised for the public in town squares, supermarkets, town halls, markets and other public places. The shows included presentation of Slovak Red Cross activities, the Road Safety Campaign, simulations of injuries and car accidents and CPR instruction. There were also First Aid lectures and competitions, including a drawing competition for children. At 11am, many Slovakians in towns and cities across the country joined hands for the “Human chain of help and humanity”. A press conference regarding World First Aid Day and the Road Safety campaign was held and attended by 20 journalists.



Spain
A high number of local branches participated in the "World First Aid Day" celebrations. First Aid events organised included demonstrations, mass training and formation of the "human" chain of life. The National Society also contributed an article highlighting different steps that can be taken at the scene of an accident which appeared in one of the most important national newspapers in Spain - "El Mundo". Read the article here (in Spanish)



Switzerland
On World First Aid day the Swiss Red Cross called for national harmonisation between all First Aid and public health stakeholders to adopt common basic First Aid procedures for public education.


Turkey
On Saturday, 13 September, the Turkish Red Crescent joined the other National Societies to mark the “World First Aid Day” and carried out public awareness activities in five major provinces (Ankara, Izmir, Duzce, Bursa and Van) in collaboration with the Civil Defence, Metropolitan Municipality, the Fire Brigade Office, Emergency Medical Association and Med-line. To announce the upcoming activities and spread First Aid messages, two thousand posters were put on the public buses and at gas stations.

The major public event took place in Ankara with thousands of participants gathering in Guven Park at Kizilay square, a popular meeting area in the city centre. The Red Crescent set up a big tent to perform First Aid simulations and to present First Aid equipment, information materials and the promotional items. Other simulations took place at two central and accessible petrol stations. In Guven park and at the petrol stations, Turkish Red Crescent staff and volunteers distributed First Aid and Road Safety information to the public.

First Aid messages that appeared on the printed materials included ’5..4..3..2..1..0..!!! DO YOU KNOW THE IMPORTANCE OF FIRST 5 MINUTES DURING EMERGENCIES?’ and ‘40 hours-40 lives...YOU CAN SAVE MANY LIVES BY A 40 HOURS TRAINING COURSE’ and created an immense interest among the public. As a result, a large number of people have registered to participate in the First Aid training courses.

The symbolic Human Chain of Help took place at 11am in Guven Park with the participation of Turkish Red Crescent staff, FA volunteers and the public.

The day’s activities highlighted the importance of knowing first aid to save lives during disasters and emergency situations. Around 50 staff and 200 volunteers were involved in activities which are estimated to have reached more than 15,000 people.



UK
Activities took place in various parts of the United Kingdom. In Central England at the West Midlands Safari Park, 180 people were trained in first Aid while hundreds picked up information leaflets and many thousands saw the Red Cross display.

In Brecon (Wales), a special stand was set up outside the town's supermarket and around 50 children took away bags of information and resources. Lincolnshire and Brighton branches also ran activities.




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Middle East and North Africa

Algeria
The Algerian Red Crescent decided to hold the majority of its activities around the area that the earthquake stuck earlier this year because many first aiders and volunteers are still working in the camps in this area. To raise First Aid Awareness, a human chain was organised with many participants including the civil defence, NGOs, health, education and family ministers and also bilateral partners.

Egypt
The Egyptian Red Crescent implemented a wide variety of activities including the organisation of 15 First Aid training courses at the National Society Headquarters and branches for Egyptian RC youth clubs, volunteers, workers in different factories and companies and public transport drivers.

During the day, Egyptian Red Crescent volunteers distributed First Aid kits and books to drivers and members of the public. A ‘Red Corner’ was established by the Red Cross volunteers in the youth clubs libraries, providing all information related to First Aid in order to increase the awareness in this field. In addition, the National Society invited representatives of the emergency services, volunteers, the Ministry of Health, and ambulance and public authorities to participate in the ‘human chain of help’.


Morocco
The Morocco Red Cross organised various national events including the ‘human chain’ which took place across many different branches and received media coverage. Other events included the signing of partnership conventions for First Aid training between NGOs and commercial and industrial establishments, the start of a training operation for ambulance workers and a training operation in school and professional arenas. A conference on International Humanitarian Law and the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement also took place. On a regional level, the following activities took place…

Kenitra:
The Provincial Committee of Kenitra organised a series of meetings with the Commission of Aid and Youth in order to plan for a special program for this day. An agreement was signed with industrial and commercial societies in order to raise awareness about the importance of First Aid and it was decided that there would be an extension of the training courses for ambulance driver in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. During the week 6 – 13 September a number of activities took place including launching the celebrations across many universities and schools, setting up banners and posters and a visit to the Civil Defense base for First Aid workers.

Rabat:
Early in the morning, training began for first Aid workers and volunteers as elsewhere in the country and the world, at 11am, volunteers, First Aid workers and the general public joined hands to make up the human chain of help.
At various points in the days, different videos were shown relating to the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement and concerning the importance of First Aid in the humanitarian field. In addition a special session was organised for young people intended to raise awareness about the dangers of HIV/AIDS and STIs.

Casa:
In Casa, First Aid Trainers took part in special courses and were awarded certificates at the end of the day. A video showing sparked off a lively debate regarding intervention during disasters and a conference was organised highlighting the importance of First Aid in the society.


Palestine RC
The Palestine Red Crescent Society joined other National Societies around the world in organizing community-based events on the occasion of World First Aid Day. During the previous week, workshops and coordination meetings were held at the Society headquarters and branches to consolidate human and material resources for the implementation of activities.

On the morning of Sept. 13th, Younis Al-Khatib, PRCS President, officially launched World First Aid Day events during a press conference at the National Society headquarters, highlighting the mission of the Red Crescent in providing high quality health, social and other humanitarian aid to all in need since its establishment in 1968.

Concerning First Aid education, Al-Khatib stated that during the past six years, the National Society has graduated more than 30,000 people in first aid. In addition to providing round the clock ambulatory services, the Red Crescent 101 emergency number also provides a ‘telephone hotline and emergency medical network’ service. Its purpose is to improve the health conditions of the Palestinian people living under siege and curfews who are forcibly immobilized at home and are unable to access medical and health care centers. Al-Khatib concluded the press conference by underscoring the need ‘for every Palestinian home to have one family member trained in first aid. Such training can make a difference during emergency and life-threatening situations.’

World First Aid Day was also an opportunity for the National Society to launch its new 101 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) image: new uniforms for medics, unified look of our ambulances and promoting the correct use of the 101 emergency number.

During the weeks activities, Red Crescent staff, volunteers and EMS medics implemented activities including dissemination sessions on First Aid Day and National Society activities, providing participants with information packets that included brochures, posters, stickers pens and pins. Local radio interviews with EMS Director and representatives from the Primary Health Care and Youth and Volunteers Dept. also took place to help highlight the day.

Within participating schools, school bags, school chests and first aid kits were distributed.

Tunisia
For this the first World First Aid Day, the Tunisian Red Crescent organised a variety of activities at regional and local level. Prior to the day itself, the Red Crescent organised promotion and media coverage of the event through radio and newspaper interviews and by issuing press releases.

Activities took place across all 24 regional areas. Here, some of the most active celebrations are detailed…

Tunis:
Activities started at 9am in one of the central city streets where Red Crescent volunteers distributed 1500 leaflets concerning the National Society activities and the World Day. At 11am the volunteers formed the ‘human chain of help’ to symbolize solidarity and to attract the attention of passers by. A competition was carried out to see who from passers by and volunteers could make the best bandage. The winner was signed up for a First Aid training session and First Aid certificates were also distributed. In collaboration with the National telecom operator, one million SMS messages were sent to people with mobile phones to highlight World First Aid Day and the Tunisian Red Crescent.

In addition, an agreement was signed between the Committees of Tunis and northern town Bizerte, to improve cooperation for First Aid activities.

Ben Arous:
A variety of activities took place including the human chain of help which was held with volunteers and travellers in a station in the south suburb of the capital. Articles appeared in the press and bilingual leaflets were also distributed . First Aid workshops were organised and First Aid certificates were awarded and the day also marked the start of a regional training programme for taxi drivers.

Gabès:
Celebrations took place in the large commercial centre and included radio reports of the event, awarding of first aid certificates, workshops aimed to demonstrate and raise awareness about First Aid, leaflet distribution and formation of the human chain of help.

Sfax:
Special training workshops and a photo exhibition were organised. The local Red Crescent branch also held an ‘open day’ to raise awareness about first Aid.

Monastir:
The Red Crescent regional committee organised a press conference to mark the day and the committee president was interviewed on radio. An open day was also held. The committee of Sousse (just 20km from Monastir) were also involved in the organisation and running of activities to raise public awareness.



United Arab Emirates
The Red Crescent Society of the United Arab Emirates organised a First Aid training workshop for trainers.


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