World First Aid Day is annually observed across the globe on the 2nd Saturday of September to create awareness about the importance of first aid training in saving lives and preventing injuries.
The day also aims to encourage the general public to learn basic first-aid skills.
World First Aid Day 2023 was observed on 9th September 2023.
- World First Aid Day 2022 was observed on 10th September 2022 and World First Aid Day 2024 will be observed on 14th September 2024.
The theme of World First Aid Day 2023 is “First Aid in the Digital World”.
- The theme promotes the utilisation of digital tools (mobile apps and online videos/courses) and resources that support first aid education.
Background:
i.In 2000, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) declared the 2nd Saturday of every year as World First Aid Day.
ii.The first-ever World First Aid Day was observed on 9th September 2000.
History of First Aid:
i.During the battle of Solferino in 1859, Henry Dunant, a businessman from Geneva helped the wounded soldiers and lobbied political leaders to protect the war victims.
ii.Later, he co-founded the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) dedicated to providing first aid assistance and promoting its importance across the globe.
Note: The incident of the battle of Solferino inspired Henry Dunant also inspired him to write a book titled “A Memory of Solferino” which details his experience.
What is First Aid?
First aid refers to medical attention that is usually administered immediately after the injury occurs and at the location where it occurred.
The process of First aid often consists of a one-time, short-term treatment and requires little technology or training to administer.
Importance of First Aid:
- First aid relieves pain and prevents infections and their chances.
- First aid reduces Recovery Time and saves healthcare costs.
- It is stated that around 150000 lives are lost due to lack of first aid.
About the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies(IFRC):
Secretary General– Jagan Chapagain
Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland
Established in 1863
