Tag: AED

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Ontario Proposes Mandate on for AEDs on Construction Sites

Ontario’s latest move to protect construction workers through enhanced safety regulations is a powerful reminder of the need for proper emergency preparedness on job sites. With the construction industry known for its high-risk work environments, the announcement underscores the importance of having the right life-saving tools and training on hand—especially when seconds count. 

Construction Sites Are High-Risk Environments

Construction sites are inherently dangerous, with risks ranging from falls and equipment accidents to sudden medical emergencies like cardiac arrest. The Ontario government’s renewed focus on protecting workers includes tightening safety protocols and ensuring job sites are equipped with the tools necessary to respond swiftly to health emergencies.

Why AEDs Should Be Standard on Every Job Site

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can strike without warning—and in high-stress, physically demanding workplaces like construction sites, the risk increases. An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be the difference between life and death. When used within the first few minutes of a cardiac emergency, an AED can dramatically increase the victim’s chance of survival.

At First Aid Canada, we provide a wide selection of Health Canada-approved AEDs ideal for rugged environments, including construction sites. Models like the HeartSine Samaritan 360P and 500P are built for durability, ease of use, and quick deployment—making them essential safety tools for any crew.

Training That Empowers Workers to Act Fast

Having an AED on-site is only part of the equation. Workers must also be trained in how to recognize emergencies and respond effectively. First Aid Canada offers certified CPR and First Aid training, tailored for industrial and construction settings. Our training includes practical instruction on how to use an AED, ensuring that team members can act quickly and confidently during critical moments.

Be Proactive: Equip Your Site with AEDs and Training

Ontario’s new safety measures are a step in the right direction—but true workplace safety goes beyond compliance. Equipping your team with AEDs and providing hands-on training empowers them to save lives and builds a culture of preparedness.

At First Aid Canada, we’re proud to support construction companies across the country with reliable AEDs and expert-led training programs that meet provincial regulations. Whether you’re outfitting a single job site or managing multiple crews, we’re here to help you stay ready for the unexpected.

Make your construction site safer—shop AEDs and book training at FirstAidCanada.com.

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Essential Safety Tips: What to Do When a Fire Breaks Out in Your Home

As wildfires continue to ravage California, the relentless flames are not only consuming thousands of acres of land but also leaving a lasting impact on communities, wildlife, and the environment—underscoring the urgent need for action in the face of a growing crisis. While safety is your top priority, we also understand that during a fire, there’s a natural instinct to gather personal items and cherished belongings—things that carry sentimental value. But in the rush of those crucial moments, how can you stay calm and make the best decisions? This guide offers insight into how to protect yourself, your family, and your memories when a fire strikes.

1. Get Out, Stay Out

First and foremost, your life and the lives of your loved ones are what matter most. If a fire breaks out in your home, evacuate immediately—do not hesitate. Never risk your safety to save possessions. Fires are unpredictable, and every second counts. Once you’re outside and at a safe distance, call 911 and wait for help to arrive.

2. Gather Only What You Can Safely Carry

It’s easy to feel the urge to gather important documents, family photos, or treasured keepsakes, especially if they hold emotional value. However, time is precious when every second counts. If you have just moments before evacuation, prioritize grabbing:

  • Your wallet, ID, and insurance information
  • Prescriptions or necessary medications
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Pet supplies (if you have pets)
  • Small, irreplaceable items (like family photos, heirlooms, or keepsakes)—but only if you can grab them quickly and safely

While it’s heartbreaking to leave behind personal items, your life is irreplaceable. If you have time and the fire isn’t spreading rapidly, try to gather what you can. But never put yourself in harm’s way trying to save physical possessions. Everything else can be replaced.

3. First Aid Kit Essentials

During the chaos of a fire, it’s easy to forget about the importance of medical care—whether for burns, smoke inhalation, or minor injuries. A well-stocked first aid kit can make a life-saving difference. Ensure your kit includes:

  • Burn cream or gel for minor burns
  • Sterile gauze and bandages for cuts or abrasions
  • Adhesive tape and antiseptic wipes
  • Pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
  • Tweezers for removing debris

In addition to these basics, consider including burn dressings and a fire blanket for more serious injuries.

4. AED (Automated External Defibrillator) for Cardiac Arrest

In the intense moments following a fire, the shock of an emergency can cause cardiac arrest. Having an AED in your home gives you the ability to potentially save someone’s life in those critical moments. If someone experiences severe smoke inhalation or trauma, it could lead to arrhythmias or heart failure. Knowing how to use an AED, especially in the event of an emergency, can help restore heart rhythm until medical professionals arrive.

5. Smoke Inhalation and Respiratory Care

Smoke inhalation can cause serious health issues, ranging from coughing to life-threatening respiratory failure. If you or anyone in your household is exposed to smoke, get to fresh air immediately. Use your first aid kit to help with breathing, and be prepared to assist with basic airway management if needed. If the person’s condition worsens, call 911 and request emergency medical help.

6. Stay Calm, Stay Prepared

Preparation is the key to reducing panic and increasing your chances of staying safe. Ensure your home is equipped with:

  • Working smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers in key locations
  • A fire escape plan that every family member knows
  • An easily accessible first aid kit, fire blanket, and AED

Every item in your emergency kit and safety plan plays a role in protecting lives, and remembering what to do in those moments of crisis can help you stay focused. Even if you have time to gather personal items, don’t lose sight of your safety.

Cherish What You Can, but Always Choose Life

In the face of a fire, it’s natural to want to protect your cherished memories. While it’s understandable to want to grab keepsakes, documents, or valuables, remember: your life and the lives of your loved ones are irreplaceable. Prioritize safety, evacuate immediately, and leave possessions behind if necessary. And with the right first aid supplies, AEDs, and fire safety tools, you can take swift action to care for yourself and those around you in the aftermath.

When disaster strikes, your home may be damaged or destroyed, but your family’s safety and the memories you’ve made together are what truly matter. Be prepared, stay calm, and remember: safety first.

Stay safe, and take care of those you love.

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Ontario’s New AED Registry: A Lifesaving Step for Cardiac Emergency Response

 

The Ontario government’s recent announcement to launch the province’s first Automated External Defibrillator (AED) registry is being widely applauded by health advocates and organizations alike. Heart & Stroke, a key champion of heart health in the province, has hailed this initiative as a monumental step toward creating safer communities and improving emergency response times for cardiac events.

For the first time, Ontarians will now be able to easily locate lifesaving AEDs in their communities when every second counts during a cardiac emergency. This new registry, led by the AED Foundation of Ontario, will provide a centralized platform for residents, first responders, and emergency medical services (EMS) to access and deploy defibrillators quickly and efficiently.

Why is an AED Registry So Important?

Automated External Defibrillators are portable devices that can restart the heart during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) by delivering a shock. With a survival rate of up to 75% when administered within minutes of a cardiac arrest, access to AEDs is critical. However, finding an AED in the crucial moments after a person collapses can be a daunting task without a clear system in place.

The new registry addresses this challenge by mapping out AED locations across Ontario, making it easier for anyone—including bystanders and EMS personnel—to pinpoint a nearby defibrillator when needed. With AEDs placed in public spaces, workplaces, sports facilities, and community centres, this registry aims to bridge the gap between cardiac emergencies and the crucial intervention that AEDs provide.

A Leader in Heart Health Innovation

Ontario is now joining the ranks of only a few provinces that have established such a registry, positioning itself as a leader in developing comprehensive heart health systems. Heart & Stroke commended the Ontario government for its forward-thinking approach, recognizing that this move is a critical component of building “heart-safe” communities.

“By ensuring more timely access to AEDs, Ontario is leading the charge toward saving lives in the critical minutes following a cardiac arrest,” said a spokesperson from Heart & Stroke. “This initiative represents a significant step in creating a coordinated and comprehensive heart health system that will undoubtedly save lives across the province.”

How the AED Registry Works

The registry will be accessible to everyone and will include a user-friendly digital platform that provides real-time information on the locations of AEDs. The goal is to ensure that no one ever has to waste precious minutes trying to locate an AED during an emergency. By registering the devices publicly, businesses and organizations can contribute to creating a network of accessible life-saving equipment throughout the province.

In addition to providing a centralized map of AED locations, the registry will also allow businesses and individuals to register new AEDs that they own, ensuring that the database remains current and comprehensive. For those interested in learning more about how to register an AED or how to access the registry during a cardiac event, the AED Foundation of Ontario will offer detailed instructions and support.

A Proactive Step Toward Saving Lives

This new registry is a proactive measure aimed at reducing fatalities caused by sudden cardiac arrest, a leading cause of death in Canada. With over 40,000 cardiac arrests occurring outside of a hospital setting each year, ensuring faster access to AEDs can make the difference between life and death.

By creating this registry, the Ontario government is addressing an urgent health need and demonstrating a strong commitment to public safety. The hope is that other provinces will follow Ontario’s lead and implement similar systems to ensure that more Canadians have access to the life-saving benefits of AEDs.

Moving Forward

The launch of Ontario’s AED registry is a groundbreaking development in the province’s approach to heart health. It is a positive step forward that not only improves access to emergency life-saving tools but also encourages community involvement in safeguarding public health.

As more Ontarians become aware of the registry and the locations of these vital devices, the potential to save lives increases significantly. Heart & Stroke, along with other health organizations, encourages every Ontarian to support and participate in this life-saving initiative by registering AEDs and familiarizing themselves with the registry.

Together, we can create a heart-safe province where quick action, better access to lifesaving tools, and stronger community engagement lead to more lives saved in the face of cardiac emergencies.

For more information about the life-saving benefits of AEDs or the Ontario AED registry, contact our team directly at sales@firstaidcanada.com.

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Surviving the Heat: Understanding the Risks to Your Heart

As the summer sun beats down relentlessly, it’s crucial to be aware of the dangers posed by extreme heat, especially if you have underlying heart conditions. Heatwaves not only test our endurance but also place significant stress on our cardiovascular systems, increasing the risk of heart attacks, cardiac arrest, and strokes. Understanding these risks and taking proactive steps before an adventure, such as investing in an AED and learning CPR/First Aid Training, can make all the difference in staying safe this summer.

Heart Conditions and Heat: A Dangerous Combination

Extreme heat affects everyone, but those with heart conditions are particularly vulnerable. Here’s why:

1. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: High temperatures cause our bodies to work harder to maintain a normal temperature. This can lead to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, placing added stress on the heart.

2. Dehydration: Sweating excessively in hot weather can quickly lead to dehydration, which reduces blood volume and makes the heart work even harder to pump blood through the body.

3. Electrolyte Imbalance: Sweating also depletes essential electrolytes like potassium and sodium, which are crucial for maintaining heart function.

4. Vasodilation: Heat can cause blood vessels to dilate, which may lead to a drop in blood pressure and a strain on the heart to compensate.

Understanding the Risks

Heart Attack: Heat increases the likelihood of a heart attack due to the added stress on the cardiovascular system and the strain placed on the heart.

Cardiac Arrest: The combination of dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and increased workload on the heart can trigger a sudden cardiac arrest, particularly in individuals with existing heart conditions.

Stroke: Heat can also lead to dehydration, which is a significant risk factor for stroke. Dehydrated blood is thicker and more likely to form clots, which can block blood flow to the brain.

Owning an AED is invaluable for cardiac arrest, heart attack, and stroke as it allows for rapid defibrillation to restore normal heart rhythms, provides clear CPR instructions for effective chest compressions, and bridges the critical gap between an emergency occurring and professional medical help arriving, significantly improving survival rates and reducing potential long-term complications. 

Precautionary Steps to Avoid Overheating

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.

Stay Cool: Spend time in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day. If you don’t have air conditioning at home, consider investing in a handheld fan to keep on you at all times, or visiting public places with cooler air, like a nearby coffee shop or shopping mall.

Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colours to reflect heat and sunlight.

Limit Physical Activity: Avoid strenuous activities during peak hours (usually midday to late afternoon). If you must exercise, try to keep it indoors or do so in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler outside.

Know the Signs: Be aware of symptoms of heat-related illness, such as excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea, and rapid pulse. Seek medical attention if you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

As temperatures soar, it’s crucial to prioritize your heart health and take precautions against extreme heat. Whether you have a pre-existing heart condition or not, understanding the risks and being prepared with knowledge of CPR and First Aid Training, and tools like an AED, can make all the difference in staying safe and enjoying a healthy summer.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed—your heart will thank you for it.

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Safety Tips for Outdoor Adventures

Are you gearing up for your next outdoor adventure?

Whether you’re planning a serene hike through the mountains or a thrilling camping trip under the stars, ensuring your safety should be a top priority. From unexpected weather changes to encountering wildlife, outdoor excursions can present various challenges. But with the right preparation and equipment, you can minimize risks and maximize enjoyment. In this guide, we’ll explore essential safety tips, must-have supplies, and precautions for your outdoor adventures.

1. Plan and Prepare:

Before embarking on any outdoor excursion, take the time to research your destination thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with the terrain, weather forecasts, and any potential hazards. If venturing out alone or in a small group, create a detailed itinerary and share it with a trusted friend or family member. Additionally, ensure your physical fitness level aligns with the demands of your chosen activity.

2. Pack the Essentials:

Having the right gear can make all the difference in an emergency situation

– First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other medical essentials can address minor injuries and provide temporary relief until professional help arrives.

– Navigation/Communication Tools: Carry a map to help you stay on course, especially in unfamiliar terrain or areas with limited cell reception. Pack a fully charged phones for areas with reception in case of emergency.

– Water and Food: Pack an ample supply of water and energy-rich snacks to stay hydrated and fuelled throughout your journey.

– Shelter and Clothing: Depending on the duration and nature of your adventure, bring appropriate clothing layers and shelter options to protect against inclement weather.

Bonus Gear: Packing an AED can be a life saving effort when time and resources, such as a nearby hospital, are limited. 

3. Learn CPR:

Learning CPR for camping with friends and family is essential because it equips you with life-saving skills to respond effectively to emergencies in remote locations, ensuring the safety and well-being of your loved ones amidst the unpredictability of outdoor adventures.

4. Know Your Limits:

Hike or engage in outdoor activities within your skill level and physical capabilities. Pace yourself, take breaks as needed, and listen to your body. Avoid pushing beyond your limits, especially in challenging conditions.

5. Be Weather-Wise:

Stay informed about current and forecasted weather conditions for your destination. Be prepared for sudden weather changes by dressing in layers and carrying waterproof clothing. Seek shelter immediately in the event of thunderstorms, high winds, or other severe weather. In the event of high temperatures, stay hydrated and stay in the shade to better manage your heat exposure and avoid heat stroke. In the most severe cases, heat stroke can lead to ventricular tachyarrhythmias and cardiac arrest. 

6. Go Green:

Respect the environment and minimize your impact on natural landscapes. Pack out all trash, dispose of waste properly, and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.

7. Stay Aware of Wildlife:

While encountering wildlife can be an exhilarating experience, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance and respect their natural habitats. Research potential wildlife encounters in the area you’re visiting and learn how to respond appropriately.

8. Share Your Plans:

Before heading out on your adventure, inform someone reliable of your plans, including your intended route, expected return time, and emergency contact information. Check-in periodically if possible, and notify them immediately upon your return.

 

By following these safety tips and being prepared with the right supplies, you can enjoy your outdoor adventures with confidence and peace of mind. Remember that safety should always come first, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of the great outdoors.

 

Happy exploring!

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Celebrating National Heart Month in Canada

February in Canada is not just about winter chill; it’s also the month dedicated to matters of the heart – both metaphorically and literally. National Heart Month is an annual observance that puts the spotlight on cardiovascular health, encouraging Canadians to prioritize heart well-being through awareness, education, and proactive measures.

The Significance of National Heart Month

This month-long initiative serves as a timely reminder for Canadians to pay attention to their heart health. Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, making it crucial to dedicate focused efforts to prevention, early detection, and lifestyle adjustments.

Key Themes

1. Education and Awareness:

National Heart Month emphasizes the dissemination of information regarding heart health. From understanding risk factors to recognizing symptoms, educational campaigns aim to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to make heart-healthy choices. National Heart Month encourages individuals to schedule appointments for blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, and other relevant tests to identify and address potential concerns early on.

2. Lifestyle Modifications:

Heart-healthy living involves adopting positive lifestyle changes. Canadians are encouraged to engage in regular physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, and manage stress effectively. These small but impactful adjustments contribute to overall cardiovascular well-being.

3. Protection:

An AED is a vital tool in preventing heart-related emergencies. Swift and accessible, it delivers crucial electric shocks during sudden cardiac arrests, substantially increasing survival chances. Integrating AEDs into public spaces and workplaces empowers individuals to act as effective first responders, making them instrumental in the prevention and management of heart health emergencies. For rural areas, where an ambulance can take much longer to arrive, investing in an AED can provide time sensitive care when a sudden cardiac emergency occurs. 

4. Community Engagement:

Communities across Canada come together during National Heart Month to organize events and activities promoting heart health. From group fitness classes to educational seminars, these initiatives foster a sense of collective responsibility towards cardiovascular well-being.

5. Heart-Healthy Recipes and Nutrition:

Nutrition is a cornerstone of heart health. National Heart Month provides an opportunity to share heart-healthy recipes and nutritional tips, encouraging Canadians to make mindful choices in their daily diets.

Conclusion

As we navigate through National Heart Month in Canada, let’s prioritize the well-being of our hearts. By fostering awareness, embracing heart-healthy lifestyles, investing in an AED, and participating in community initiatives, we can collectively reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases. Small changes can lead to significant improvements, ensuring that our hearts beat stronger and healthier for years to come. Here’s to a month of nurturing our hearts and embracing a lifetime of cardiovascular well-being.

Happy #HeartMonth

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Regular Maintenance is Key for a Working Portable Defibrillator

Having a portable defibrillator on site is the first step to saving a life but it doesn’t end there. Did you know creating a routine maintenance program and adhering to that program is the only way to be sure that it is ready to use? Defibrillators are the only item that can reliably help resume normal cardiac function, so it is important that such a device works when you need it. For most office environments, most manufacturers recommend checking your device once a month, making a note of any replacements that are required during the course of the inspection and addressing any issues that may have come up during the device’s self-diagnostic processes. The inspection itself should cover a variety of areas, including checking the battery and pads. Any accessories, such as replacement or alternative pads, should be kept with the machine. Cleaning these items and running any self-diagnostic tests recommended by the manufacturer will go a long way toward keeping your defibrillator in working order and ready to use when it is needed. The last thing you want to happen during a medical emergency is experiencing a low battery. The pads and batteries should be regularly inspected to ensure that they have not expired and are replaced when necessary. Checking the AED every month will also give you an opportunity to address any issues that are indicated by the self-diagnostics, so you have time to correct the problem during a non-emergency situation.

Battery Inspection and Replacement

Batteries should have either a use by or install by date that will provide guidance on when they should be replaced. It is advised you check now and record this date a second time somewhere visible, like a desk calendar or on your office supply and restocking list. A defibrillator’s battery can last anywhere between two and four years, depending on the size, make and model. However, all battery types discharge over time, whether in use or not, so it is essential to check the battery life during each inspection. Usage, such as training with the device, will also need to be considered. Some batteries require discharge before disposal, so you should check the manufacturer’s recommendations for disposal before removing and replacing the battery.

Electrode Pad Inspection and Replacement

Electrode pads should also be inspected and should never be reused. The pads should also have an install by or use by date, and it is essential that they adhere to the skin to properly conduct the electricity needed to provide the life-saving shock that the machine was designed to deliver. Any opened or damaged pads should be disposed of following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Even the slightest bit of water can introduce a significant glitch so it is important these pads are safe and secure alongside the machine. Since portable defibrillators are often stored in public spaces, determining that the unit is intact and has not been tampered with should also be a part of each inspection. The majority of defibrillator malfunctions are preventable with routine maintenance. Creating and maintaining a maintenance schedule are the key to your portable defibrillator being the useful and lifesaving tool it is meant to be.

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How and Why an AED Can Save Lives in Ontario

What is an Automated External Defibrillator?

If you haven’t heard by now, an AED is a medical device that is designed to restore a normal heartbeat to a distressed individual by sending a corrective electric pulse to their heart. It may be used to stop or correct an arrhythmia, which is a heartbeat that is irregular, too slow, or too fast. Though it may seem intimidating at first, these devices have been tailored for public use and require minimal training. Many health and safety-conscious companies are placing defibrillators in their workspaces, so read on and learn how to use an AED in Ontario and across Canada.

It Starts With Rhythm: AEDs Check the Beat First

The human heart is supposed to work at a regular pace, pumping blood at a steady rhythm and not deviating too much from its average speed. There are certain situations, however, that may trigger arrhythmia or irregular/uneven heartbeat. Medical technology has advanced to the point where an AED is capable of checking an individual’s pulse for its rhythm to determine whether that rhythm is normal or not. In other words, an individual does not have to be a trained medical professional to opt confidently for the AED. This machine is designed to correct the discrepancy and restore normal, healthy heart function when needed.

Sometimes the Rhythm Stops: How to Handle

Sudden Cardiac Arrest sounds severe and scary, and it should. But using an AED should not. Cardiac arrest strikes when a person’s heart suddenly stops beating unexpectedly. If left untreated, sudden cardiac arrest causes death within minutes. This is why public health initiatives to place AEDs in Ontario and across Canada are so vital; with a healthy spread and selection of defibrillators placed strategically in work and public places throughout the country, sudden cardiac arrest and arrhythmia will become much less deadly and far more treatable.

Pay Attention: The Device Tells All Its Secrets

Fortunately, AEDs are portable. Every AED is outfitted with electrodes, or sticky pads with sensors, and a computer. All a bystander needs to do is attach the electrodes to the chest as shown explicitly on the pads and let the machine do its work. The electrodes sense the heartbeat of the afflicted party and will send information to the computer, that will determine what kind of electric shocks the person needs to get their heart working. If the computer determines that shocks are necessary, it sends them through the electrodes. Each AED has a detailed picture guide to ensure correct placement, written instructions as well as vocalized instructions to talk bystanders through these simple steps. Various languages are available as well so prepare your space accordingly.

With AEDs all over the country and an AED close to at-risk individuals, deaths from cardiac arrest will decrease dramatically. Everyone will be able to handle these medical emergencies thanks to this convenient medical technology.

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Cottage Season: Know Before You Go

Cottage Season: Know Before You Go

Spring has arrived and cottage season is officially in full swing. If you are one of the lucky ones and have a slice of paradise detached from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is likely you are starting to plan and prepare your upcoming adventure. It is no question, visiting a cottage requires a little bit of thought because realistically a remote location isn’t exactly ideal for last minute supplies and resources. Forgot your phone charger? Chances are the nearest store isn’t a brisk walk away. Surrounded by water, conservation and greenery, wildlife and sunshine, the isolation can often come with a handful of complications. It is essential you and your family hit the road for cottage country well prepared. There is nothing we love more than going off the grid. Limited distractions, stress and chaos offering an endless supply of vitamin D and outdoor entertainment. But what happens when an unexpected medical emergency breaks out? What are the chances your cottage is fully equipped to handle a crisis? Every minute counts and unfortunately, first responders may need quite a few of those minutes to reach you. Before we list our must-have cottage basics, one of the most critical supplies every single cottage MUST have is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). An AED is used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest and can help restore a healthy rhythm. This portable machinery is an essential piece when going off the grid because travel time and limited resources can jeopardize life-saving potential. Discover the life-saving benefits of an AED and which one might be right for you. Don’t let a medical emergency negatively impact your cottage experience. Go ahead and prepare for too much sunshine, land and water activities gone wrong, unexpected burns and painful stings and any other obstacles that may occur away from home.

Top 3 Must-Have Cottage Supplies
1. Burn and Cool Jel
2. Bite and Sting Extractor Kit
3. Waterproof Boat and Marine First Aid Kit

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February is Heart Month

What is Heart Month?  For over 60 years the Heart and Stroke Foundation has organized Heart Month. It is has become one of the largest fundraising campaigns in Canada. February is widely recognized as the month of love. Ahem, Valentine’s Day. It will come as no surprise that February is also a month dedicated to raising awareness for cardiovascular health. While it may be endearing to have your heart skip a beat for the love of your life or for your breath to be taken away, make sure the experience is one of love and not that of oxygen loss or abnormal heart rhythm. Heart disease is a general term that refers to the heart not working the way it should. Various forms of heart disease are present at birth, while other forms develop as we age. Practicing a healthy lifestyle and staying up to date with medical research, resources and care are critical components to reducing heart disease and living your best heart-healthy life. Get Involved

  • Start with the basics… wear red to raise awareness
  • Eat heart-healthy foods (2019 Canada’s Food Guide)
  • Reduce stress by practicing age-appropriate physical activity
  • Prepare for heart health emergencies with the purchase of an AED 
  • Get screened for risk factors. Understand your unique risks.
  • Become an organ donor and/or donate blood at your nearest clinic
  • Learn CPR. Get certified. Contact First Aid Canada.
  • Limit alcohol and tobacco consumption
  • Promote overall wellness with a healthy sleep schedule

Did you know? Cardiac arrest – a potential symptom of a heart attack and stroke – occurs when electrical activity in the heart malfunctions. This can happen suddenly and without warning. It is important that you and your family, friends and coworkers learn CPR because with a combination of dialing 911, early CPR and defibrillation you can increase the chance of survival by 75% or greater when performed on someone suffering from cardiac arrest. In the spirit of February being Heart Month, First Aid Canada is offering reduced pricing and free shipping on all AED orders! Shop now while supplies last.  Follow us on Instagram  for more heart healthy tips, tricks and interesting facts.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

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Defibrillators Save Lives in Schools

Children Playing Soccer at School

Defibrillators Save Lives in Schools

Having an AED onsite at school can mean the difference between life and death. Being September we felt it was important to go into detail of the value of having a defibrillator onsite within schools.

Age Doesn’t Matter

There is a common misconception when it comes to cardiac arrest, often people believe it can only occur in aging or unhealthy adults, when quite commonly children can suffer from sudden cardiac arrest.

Often when cardiac arrest occurs in children it is related to a heart condition that had not yet been recognized or diagnosed, so a seemingly healthy and active child can suffer from sudden cardiac arrest. It is estimated that 5,000-7,000 children die from SCA each year. In addition to children, adults working in schools may also be at risk for sudden cardiac arrest or heart attack, making an automated external defibrillator a very important piece of first aid equipment to have onsite.

If you are unaware of the signs and symptoms of cardiac arrest, click here to check out a previous blog.

Easy to Operate

A common misconception about Automated External Defibrillators is that they are difficult to use, when in fact they are easy enough for a third grader to operate without having had previous training. The Onsite model of the Philips HeartStart Automated External Defibrillator provides step-by-step voice commands to instruct the individual using the device how to operate it in the case of an emergency. For more information and a demonstration check out the video below:

Easy Maintenance

Being an intellegent form of technology, many people misconceive that a defibrillator is hard to manage and maintain, when in fact it has been designed to not only be easy to use, but also easy to care for. The device automatically runs daily self tests to check the internal circuitry, waveform delivery system, pads cartridge, and battery capacity. The blinking green “Ready” light indicates the Onsite AED has passed its daily self test and is ready for use and when maintainance is needed an audible “chirp” will sound to identify attention needed.

In conclusion Automated External Defibrillators are highly reccomended within schools as both children and adults can benefit from them. It is important to be prepared in public places and an AED onsite can mean the difference between life and death. For more information on the Philips HeartStart Onsite Automated External Defibrillator, please click here.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

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5 Ways to Fundraise for an Automated External Defibrillator

Hands holding heart

5 Ways to Fundraise for an Automated External Defibrillator

With Automated External Defibrillators being a high priced item, yet essential for saving lives in heart-related emergencies it can be contemplative determining how and when to make the purchase.

Defibrillator stories are continuously in the news and we are avid readers, Like us on Facebook for daily news stories related to lives saved by defibrillators and stories of how other people are fundraising for the cause worldwide.

Luckily, the First Aid Canada team has put together a few ideas to help kick-start your fundraising campaign for a defibrillator:

Community Bottle Drive

Community bottle drives are a great way for an organization to fundraise, especially during the summer months when the weather is favourable and people are collecting recyclables from weekend trips, barbecues and backyard shenanigans. By creating an event for your sports time or association you can draw attention before the collection by posting about it on social media and relaying to friends and family.

Community Car Wash

Similar to a community bottle drive, a community car wash is a great option for summer months. A great tip for events such as this is to create an event on Facebook. This can be created easily from your cellphone and can reach hundreds and even thousands of people!

Creating a Calendar

We’ve seen some pretty creative calendar ideas in the news! From firefighters stripping down to volleyball players striking their best pose, creating calendars is a great way to raise money. Producing a calendar is relatively inexpensive and print shops may even be open to donating their services for free. Whether it be for work, a sports team, a community centre, selling an exclusive calendar is a great way to bring in a lot of cash!

Collect Donations

Collecting donations is another great way to raise money for a defibrillator. There are many cases of organizations and associations doing this worldwide. From boy scouts to lawn bowling teams going door-to-door and approaching friends and family with your story can help raise attention and funds to a worthy cause. Don’t forget there are a lot of websites which enable you to collect donations more easily such as GoFundMe!

Fun Challenges

Lastly, fun challenges such as polar bear swims are a great way to collect pledges for defibrillators. By asking friends, families and your community for fundraising pledges to reach a goal to participate in a challenge, you are not only raising funds for the cause, but creating awareness around defibrillators and heart health!

We love to hear from you! If you or anyone in your community have fundraised for a defibrillator or are currently doing so let us know. For more information on defibrillators you can click here or contact us between the hours of 9-5 (EST) at 1-855-322-4243.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.