Following the observation of World First Aid Day and the passage of recent tropical storm Phillipe-induced floods, the Dominica Red Cross Society is urging individuals to pursue accredited certified first aid training.
“The power to save lives resides within us all, waiting to be unleashed through the right knowledge and skills, noted Sandra Charter-Rolle, the Director General of the Dominica Red Cross Society (DRCS). She emphasized that the DRCS is at the forefront of cutting-edge first aid knowledge, accredited by the Global First Aid Reference Centre, an integral part of the International Liaison Committee of Resuscitation. As co-chairs of the Caribbean Technical Advisory Group on First Aid, their commitment extends beyond borders, engaging in groundbreaking first aid research and offering peer-to-peer training that sets the standard in first aid education.
To facilitate access to first aid knowledge, the Global First Aid Reference Center, in collaboration with the French Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), has launched a worldwide first aid application, compatible with Android and iOS. This free, multilingual app is accessible to all Dominicans, regardless of age or prior first aid knowledge, making it convenient for both beginners and those seeking to refresh and maintain their skills.
“Mastering first aid isn’t just a skill – it’s a lifeline, providing the means to make a real difference during critical moments, reduce suffering, and save lives. Now, imagine having access to internationally recognized first aid certification right here in Dominica, exclusively offered by the Dominica Red Cross Society,” shared Joanna Pierre, First Aid Coordinator for the DRCS and also regional first aid trainer for neighbouring Red Cross national societies
The Dominica Red Cross Society conducts first aid training monthly at the national headquarters on Federation Drive, Roseau, and can provide training at other locations upon request. They are also expanding their first aid programs to include Stress First Aid and Wilderness/Remote First Aid. Individuals, schools, and companies interested in signing up for training can reach out via email at facoordinator.drcs@gmail.com or by phone at 767-448-8280/440-2483/615-8414. Further details are available on their website, www.dominicaredcross.com.
To hear inspiring stories of individuals trained in first aid saving lives across the Caribbean, watch the live stream recording.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ms. Joanna Pierre, First Aid Coordinator, Dominica Red Cross Society
facoordinator.drcs@gmail.com | 615-8414