Posted on January 30, 2022January 9, 2024 by Ryan T

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.

Posted on April 26, 2018September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

How to Respond to an Emergency

How to Respond to an Emergency: Step-by-Step

Would you know how to handle an emergency? Here is a brief step-by-step guide to remind you how to handle yourself and others when it comes to an emergency situation:

Remain Calm

The most important thing when facing an emergency is to remain calm. Remaining calm will help anyone else involved in the situation present their selves in the best way to move forward to help those affected and potentially save lives.

Keep People Away from the Site and Situation

When an emergency occurs it can draw a lot of attention. It is important to keep away anyone who is not involved or who does not have valuable skills to share such as valid First Aid Training…

Administer First Aid to Anyone Requiring It

Are you trained in First Aid and CPR? If you aren’t be sure to look for courses offered in your area. Although we hope you never have to use the skills you will learn at CPR & First Aid Training they can mean the difference between life and death.

Call Emergency

If anyone around you has access to a phone direct them to call 9-11. If you are the only additional person involved in the situation try to remain calm and call 9-11.

Use Available Resources to Give Directions to Bystanders

Depending on the severity of the emergency you may need to take control to direct bystanders to help you within the situation. This could involve: directing someone to call 9-11, asking someone to bring you water or other necessary supplies. Be direct and precise with your directions to ensure the situation does not get chaotic.

Stay Alert when Emergency Vehicles Arrive

Stay alert when the emergency vehicles arrive. Contiue to administer any first and and CPR until the professionals arrive.

We hope you never have to face an emergency situation in your lifetime, but it is always important to be well-prepared. First Aid Canada is proud to offer a wide variety of First Aid Supplies and Defibrillators.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Spring Hiking Checklist

Happy First Day of Spring!

It’s nearing that time for ideal hiking conditions: not too hot, not too cold, lots of greenery, blooms and if you’re lucky some wildlife (friendly wildlife of course)!

We want you to be prepared for all of the adventures in the paths ahead. Here’s our Safe Hiking Checklist:

Have you packed enough food and water?

Hiking causes your body to expend a significant amount of energy even when your hike is short. Be sure to bring enough food to feed not only your energy levels, but others you are hiking with as well. In case of an emergency you do not want to be put into a lengthy situation without food. Water is just as important as brining food on your hike as it will keep you hydrated. Be sure to bring extra water on warmer days as your body will be releasing more fluids in attempt to regulate body temperature.

Have you checked out the trails conditions vs your own?

Prior to heading out for a hike check conditions and trail ratings. Never out yourself into a situation you aren’t physically fit enough for. This reduces chances of injuries at all levels. If you desire a certain trail to venture onto, but feel you aren’t ready for it make it a goal to go in a few weeks after you have attempted easier trails first.

Are you prepared for the weather?

Weather can make a huge difference on the difficulty and danger levels of a hike. Opt for hiking in moderate and mild temperatures and avoid days with extreme hot or cold warnings. Another important condition to check before heading out is whether or not animals have been sighted in the area or if there is an overall warning for cougars or bears. If you choose to continue to head out in these areas bring necessary equipment to keep yourself safe from these animals if you happen to cross paths, i.e. bear spray.

Are you alert?

As mentioned above it is important to stay alert for animals in the woods. Avoid hiking with headphones in as this could prevent you from hearing something important while hiking. Signs and warnings are also things to stay alert for on a hike, this can include: warning signs for mud or rockslides, dangerous areas, animals, cliffs, etc.

Are you missing anything?

Before heading out make a checklist for items necessary to bring on your hike. Examples can and should include:

Map
Sunscreen
Hat
GPS Unit/Compass
Cellphone
Camera
Change of clothes
Comfy shoes
Food and water
Insect Repellant
Hikers First Aid Kit
Folding shovel

The Hikers’ First Aid Kit (available in a Standard and Deluxe version) is a perfect addition to any hike or adventure as the kit is small and compact. Although these kits are small and easy to carry they contain all of the necessary supplies an individual would need for basic hiking related injuries.

Lastly, it is very important to let someone know where and when you are going for a hike. Let the individual know when you expect to arrive home and call to check in.

Wishing you a safe and happy hike!

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on February 15, 2018September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

Family First Aid & Heart Safety in the Home

Family First Aid & Heart Safety in the Home

Because it is officially #HeartMonth 2018 the First Aid Canada team feels it is important to kindly address safety within the home. The home is a place we spend a large amount of our time each day and night. Both family and friends will continually be guests the home so it is important to be prepared with a first aid kit and an automated external defibrillator.

Below you will find our reccomendations for transforming your home into a fully prepared and safe one!

First Aid Kits & Supplies

First Aid Canada is pleased to offer two different first aid kits designed especially for the home:

Home Kit – Standard
Containing essential items for treating minor injuries
Home Kit – Deluxe
Containing essential items, plus more so you won’t need to replenish as often

If you are lucky enough to spend the holidays at the cottage, we also have kits suited especially for those spaces as well:

Cottage Kit – Standard
Containing essential items for treating minor injuries in both an indoor and outdoor setting
Cottage Kit – Deluxe
Containing essential items for treating minor injuries indoors and outdoors, plus more

It may also come in useful to consider the following items:

Automated External Defibrillators

Automated External Defibrillators or AEDs are life-saving devices that are used to restart the heart when facing sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA can occur at anytime and any age and a defibrillator close by can mean the difference between life and death. Keep your loved ones safe in the home (or cottage) by considering a Philips HeartStart AED for the home. First Aid Canada offers a comprehensive AED home package containing:

Philips HeartStart Home Defibrillator with 8-Year Warranty
Pre-Installed Battery (4 Years or 200 Shocks) with 4-Year Warranty
Pre-Installed Adult SMART Pads Cartridge
Slim Carry Case
AED Fast Response Kit (Includes: CPR Face Mask, Paramedic Scissors, Pair of Nitrile Gloves, Razor & Absorbent Cloth)
Owners Manual and Quick Reference Guide
Training Video
Window Decal & Call 9-1-1 Reminder

Don’t delay on being prepared! The First Aid Canada team is always here to answer questions: 1-855-322-4243.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on January 25, 2018September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

How to Save Lives in Your Workplace

How to Save Lives in Your Workplace

Office safety is crucial in any workplace. If you haven’t had the opportunity to read up on the Provincial Safety Requirements for your province on our blog you should definitely do so by clicking here or finding your province below:

Along with an adequate first aid kit is important to have an Automated External Defibrillator onsite in the office. Cardiac arrest can occur at any age and it has even been recorded that the most common time for people to fall victim of a heart attack is Monday mornings… We can’t think of anyone who wants a side of heart attack with their double Americano.

When an AED and CPR are immediately available, the chance of survival from sudden cardiac arrest is substantially improved. Philips Heart Start AED’s are especially easy to operate as there easy to read graphics and voice instructions. It is lso highly reccomended that wherever an AED is located in a public space that it is visibly marked with a sign and all employees are aware of it’s locatio

For offices, First Aid Canada highly recommends the Philips Onsite Automated External Defibrillator. For a more visual demonstration, please take a look at the video below:

For additional AEDs available from First Aid Canada and how they work please check out the links below:

Save life in the workplace! If you have any questions please feel free to contact the First Aid Canada team at 1-855-322-4243.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on July 17, 2016September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

How to Seal Wounds With Powder

What if we told you when you were distances away from medical care you could seal a wound that would normally require stitches with powder? You would probably doubt it, but the truth is this is actually possible with the help of WoundSeal.

WoundSeal is a non-prescription powder bandage which can be applied to external wounds that have blood, such as skin tears. The powder is made of a hydrophilic polymer and potassium ferrate and forms a waterproof scab when mixed with blood within seconds. The scab naturally falls off once the wound has healed. WoundSeal is also hypoallergenic and can be easily applied with with three different types:

3 Types:

1. WoundSeal Rapid Response

WoundSeal Rapid Response is for use on larger wounds.

2. WoundSeal Pour Pack

The WoundSeal Pour Pack is for use on minor wounds.

3. WoundSeal with Applicator

The WoundSeal with Applicator is for use on minor wounds.

WoundSeal is most definitely helpful in outdoor situations and for work or leisure as unexpected accidents can often occur. If you have any questions on WoundSeal or other products available from First Aid Canada we can be reached between 9-5 EST at 1-855-322-4243.

More information on the creators of WoundSeal, click here.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on May 3, 2016September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

Are You Cottage Ready?

Are You Cottage Ready?

With the weather heating up it has many of us daydreaming of our future cottage days… Lying on the dock, cruising in the boat and of course jumping into the lake. With great fun comes all the more need to be prepared when an emergency presents itself. Because cottages are often in remote locations being prepared to handle injuries both big and small will prevent hospital visits and allow for more fun to be had at the cottage!

Here are a few of our recommendations for items to have onsite at the cottage:

Adventure Kit

Smaller kits, such as the First Aid Canada Adventure Kit are handy to have onsite at the cottage for multiple reasons. Because these kits are small and compact they are great for daily excursions such as picnics or nature walks. Containing items such as alcohol antiseptic swabs, insect repellant and various sizes of fabric bandages makes this kit ideal for active families.

Wilderness Kit

The First Aid Canada Wilderness Kit is also recommended for active families, as it is similar to the Adventure Kit, but contains additional items to prepare for extended outdoor use. This kit contains BzK wipes, an emergency blanket, insect repellant, sunscreen towelettes and much more. For a more detailed look of the full list of kit contents check out our Wilderness Kit page.

Hiking Kit

Are you a hiking enthusiast? Then the First Aid Canada Hikers’ Kit is right for you. This kit comes in two different versions: Hikers’ Kit – Standard and Hikers’ Kit – Deluxe. This kit contains everything needed to set out on great hiking adventures from the cottage. Being small, compact and encompassed in a lightweight, multi-compartment pack with an adjustable waist belt and quick release buckle makes it convenient for bringing along on your journey.

Cottage Kit

Of course every kit needs a Cottage Kit! This kit comes in two variations the Cottage Kit – Standard and the Cottage Kit – Deluxe. Both kits contain items such as Butterfly Skin Closures and WoundSeal, which are crucial to have at the cottage. As mentioned above being in remote locations means all the more reason to be prepared to prevent infection and heal injuries quickly and efficiently. WoundSeal actually closes up wounds that may require stitches when a medical facility is nowhere near.

Emergency Survival Kit

Is your cottage in an extremely remote location such as an island or miles away from the nearest doctor or hospital? If so you may want to consider an Emergency Survival Kit. There are two different variations of this kit: Emergency Survival Kit – 1 Person and Emergency Survival Kit – 1-2 People. These kits contain items such as an Emergency Blanket, Food Rations and Waterproof Matches, which have the potential to save lives in various emergency situations.

Watersports Kit

Are you spending a lot of time on the water, more specifically in your boat and taking part in water sports? Then the First Aid Canada Watersports Kit is an excellent choice for the boat. This type of kit comes in two variations the Water Sports Kit I and the Water Sports Kit II, each containing an extensive assortment of first aid emergency treatment and patient discomfort supplies for quick response to injuries and sickness that may occur in an outdoor water setting.

Please feel free to contact the First Aid Canada Team with any questions you may have on the kits mentioned above. We can be reached at 1-855- 322-4243 Monday to Friday 9AM – 5PM est. We want you to have the best and safest summer yet!

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Which AED is right for me?

Shopping for a defibrillator can seem quite intimidating due to all of the different models, manufacturers and high prices. First Aid Canada is happy to provide four different types of defibrillators; all of which are trustworthy, easy to use and set at appropriate prices. This blog is designed to help you discover the best defibrillator for your life and your needs.

Philips HeartStart Home Defibrillator

Are you looking for a defibrillator for the home? Defibrillators for the home are highly recommended with for individuals with health and heart concerns. If heart disease is a risk factor in your life, or the life of a loved one, having an AED in the home could result in the difference between life and death. Home defibrillators are also recommended for people living in rural areas or spending time away from medical help such as cabins, chalets or cottages. There is little to no training needed for the HeartStart Home Defibrillator which means it is designed for the ordinary person in the extraordinary moment. With an 8-year warranty, a fast response kit, a carrying case and more the Philips HeartStart Home could be the lifesaver in your life.

Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator

Philips HeartStart Onsite Automated External Defibrillators are the perfect life-saving device for public spaces such as community centers and sports arenas. Just like the Philips HeartStart Home defibrillator, the Philips Onsite is extremely easy to operate with both audio and visual cues. This model is designed for acting fast to save a life in a fast paced environment. With the ability to deliver a shock in about 8 seconds after the end of a CPR interval, this model one of the fastest operating AEDs. For a visual example check out this video:

Philips HeartStart FRx Defibrillator

The Philips HeartStart FRx Defibrillator is specifically designed for first responders needing a lifesaving device that is rugged, easy to use and extremely reliable. On the scene with law enforcement, on the field with athletes, or on the job in industrial workplaces, the FRx AED is built to treat sudden cardiac arrest in environments and conditions too demanding for many other defibrillators. This model also includes a fast response kit containing additional supplies such as a CPR Face Mask, Paramedic Scissors, Pair of Nitrile Gloves, Razor & Absorbent Cloth. For more information on this particular model check out the video below:

ZOLL Semi-Automatic AED Plus

ZOLL’s AED Plus® features Real CPR Help®, a tool that is able to actually see what you are doing and provide feedback to help you do it well. For example, audio and visual prompts help you rescue with confidence and clarity such as advising you to push harder on the victims chest during CPR compressions or stop CPR compressions. For more information check out the ZOLL AED Plus Demonstration Video:

Still have questions? Feel free to contact the First Aid Canada team anytime between 9-5 est. at 1-855-322-4243.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on April 18, 2016September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

Which AED is Right for Me?

Which AED is right for me?

Philips HeartStart Home Defibrillator

Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator

Philips HeartStart FRx Defibrillator

ZOLL Semi-Automatic AED Plus

Still have questions? Feel free to contact the First Aid Canada team anytime between 9-5 est. at 1-855-322-4243.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on December 13, 2015September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

Signs, Symptoms & Treatment: Frostbite & Hypothermia

Frostbite

Exposure to below-freezing temperatures causes frostbite. Frostbite can affect any area of the skin, however is most common in hands, feet, face and ears. It is important to understand the symptoms of frostbite to prevent this serious condition from progressing.

Signs & Symptoms

Aching pain
Numbness
Skin feels hard and waxy
Skin is white and/or gray-yellowish in colour

Treatment

If you are without immediate medical attention and believed you are dealing with frostbite call a doctor right away.

Begin by finding shelter, ideally indoors
Do not attempt to thaw the frostbite as this can cause permanent damage
Remove all wet clothing
Do not rub frostbitten areas
Do not use dry heat, ex. fire or hot pack
Do not break any blisters
Warm frostbitten parts in warm water for 30 minutes
Place cotton balls in between frostbitten toes and fingers once they have been warmed
Loosely wrap warmed areas with bandages to prevent re-freezing
If pain is immense, take ibuprofen for relief

Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it. The body loses heat through radiation, direct contact and wind in exposure in cold-weather conditions or cold water. Prolonged exposure to any environment colder than your body will lead to hypothermia if you are not properly prepared. Preparation includes checking environmental conditions beforehand and dressing appropriately.

Signs & Symptoms

Shivering
Dizziness
Hunger
Nausea
Faster breathing
Trouble speaking
Slight confusion
Lack of coordination
Fatigue
Increased heart rate

Treatment

If possible move inside slowly
Remove all wet clothing
Warm the person’s trunk prior to warming extremities*
Warm the body by wrapping it in blankets
Do not attempt to warm the body through warm water
If warming through hot packs, wrap them in fabric rather than applying directly to skin
Give non-caffeinated warm fluids to drink
Begin CPR is necessary

*Warming the extremities first can cause shock

Stay safe and stay warm this winter. For more tips on how to be prepared this winter subscribe to our company blog or check back weekly for new posts.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on July 27, 2015September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

Saskatchewan Workplace First Aid Requirements

Saskatchewan Workplace First Aid Requirements

The first aid requirements for businesses in Saskatchewan vary depending on the number of workers actively employed at one time, the type of industry/potential for hazards and the proximity/travel time to a medical facility.

For the most current regulations, refer to Table 9 to 12 (pg. 262 of 304) of the
Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Act. Below is a summarization of requirements:

1 Worker

Close (< 30 min)

Saskatchewan #1 Kit

Distant (< 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #1 Kit

Isolated (> 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #1 Kit

2-4 Workers

Close (< 30 min)

Saskatchewan #1 Kit

Distant (< 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #1 Kit
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints
Class A attendant and additional supplies – if high hazard work: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 1 Sterile Burn Sheet

Isolated (> 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #1 Kit
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints
Class A attendant and additional supplies – if high hazard work: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 1 Sterile Burn Sheet

5-9 Workers

Close (< 30 min)

Saskatchewan #1 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies – if high hazard work: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 1 Sterile Burn Sheet

Distant (< 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #1 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 1 Sterile Burn Sheet
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

Isolated (> 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #1 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 1 Sterile Burn Sheet
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

10-20 Workers

Close (< 30 min)

Saskatchewan #2 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 1 Sterile Burn Sheet

Distant (< 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #2 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 1 Sterile Burn Sheet
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

Isolated (> 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #2 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 1 Sterile Burn Sheet
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

21-40 Workers

Close (< 30 min)

Saskatchewan #2 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 2 Sterile Burn Sheet

Distant (< 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #2 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 2 Sterile Burn Sheets
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

Isolated (> 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #2 Kit
Class B attendant and additional supplies – if high hazard work – 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 2 Sterile Burn Sheets, Stethoscope with bell, Sphygmomanometer, Thermometer, Emergency Oxygen System, Big Valve and Mask Resuscitator and if potential spinal injury, long Spine Boards with Adequate Restraining Straps and Medium and Large Cervical Collars.
Class A attendant and additional supplies – if not high hazard work: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 2 Sterile Burn Sheets
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

41-99 Workers

Close (< 30 min)

Saskatchewan #3 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 4 Hot Packs, 4 Cold Packs, 4 Sterile Burn Sheets

Distant (< 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #3 Kit
Class B attendant and additional supplies – if high hazard work: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 2 Sterile Burn Sheets, Stethoscope with Bell, Sphygmomanometer, Thermometer, Emergency Oxygen System, Big Valve and Mask Resuscitator and if potential spinal injury, long Spine Boards with adequate Restraining Straps and Medium and Large Cervical Collars
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 4 Hot Packs, 4 Cold Packs, 4 Sterile Burn Sheets
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

Isolated (> 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #3 Kit
Class A attendant and additional supplies: 4 Hot Packs, 4 Cold Packs, 4 Sterile Burn Sheets – if low hazard work
EMT – if high hazard work
Class B attendant and additional supplies: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 2 Sterile Burn Sheets Stethoscope with Bell, Sphygmomanometer, Thermometer, Emergency Oxygen System, Big Valve and Mask Resuscitator and if potential spinal injury, long Spine Boards with adequate Restraining Straps and Medium and Large Cervical Collars
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

100+ Workers

Close (< 30 min)

Saskatchewan #3 Kit
2 Class A attendants and additional supplies: 4 Hot Packs, 4 Cold Packs, 4 Sterile Burn Sheets

Distant (< 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #3 Kit
First Aid Room
1 EMT and 1 Class B attendant and additional supplies – if high hazard work: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 2 Sterile Burn Sheets, Stethoscope with Bell, Sphygmomanometer, Thermometer, Emergency Oxygen System, Big Valve and Mask Resuscitator and if potential spinal injury, long Spine Boards with adequate Restraining Straps and Medium and Large Cervical Collars
2 Class A attendants and additional supplies: 4 Hot Packs, 4 Cold Packs, 4 Sterile Burn Sheets
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

Isolated (> 2 hours)

Saskatchewan #3 Kit
First Aid Room
1 EMT and 1 Class B attendant and additional supplies – if high hazard work: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 2 Sterile Burn Sheets, Stethoscope with Bell, Sphygmomanometer, Thermometer, Emergency Oxygen System, Big Valve and Mask Resuscitator and if potential spinal injury, long Spine Boards with adequate Restraining Straps and Medium and Large Cervical Collars
2 Class A attendants and additional supplies: 4 Hot Packs, 4 Cold Packs, 4 Sterile Burn Sheets
2 Class B attendants and additional supplies for other work: 1 Hot Pack, 1 Cold Pack, 2 Sterile Burn Sheets, Stethoscope with Bell, Sphygmomanometer, Thermometer, Emergency Oxygen System, Big Valve and Mask Resuscitator and if potential spinal injury, long Spine Boards with adequate Restraining Straps and Medium and Large Cervical Collars
Blankets, Stretcher and Splints

Links to First Aid Kits & Supplies

Additional Supplies

Farm & Forestry Kit – Ideal for workers working a distance from main workplace, for example working on a farm.

AED – Recommended for any workplace setting.

If you have any questions regarding first aid and safety in the workplace, please do not hesitate to contact the First Aid Canada Team: 1-855-322-4243.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on June 22, 2015September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

Ontario Workplace First Aid Requirements

IMG Courtesy of Ace Work Gear, http://www.aceworkgear.com/brands/milwaukee-power-tools

Ontario Workplace First Aid Requirements

All employers covered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act in Ontario are required to have specific first aid equipment, facilities and trained personnel in all workplaces. For more detailed information see Regulation 1101 of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act. For a brief summary on the requirements of different organizations by number of employees please see below:

Organizations with 1-5 Employees:

Employers must ensure their first aid station containing an Ontario Section 8 Kit is at all times in charge of a trained employee holding a valid Emergency First Aid certificate. The Ontario section 8 First Aid kit is also offered in a deluxe version containing additional items exceeding workplace guidelines:

Organizations with 6-15 Employees:

Employers must ensure their first aid station containing an Ontario Section 9 Kit is in charge of a trained employee at all times who holds a valid Standard First Aid certification. This employee must work in the immediate vicinity of the First Aid Kit. The Ontario Section 9 First Aid kit is available in both a standard and deluxe version:

Organizations with 16-200 Employees:

Trained employees must have a Standard First Aid certificate and have immediate access to an Ontario section 10 First Aid kit at minimum. Like the other Ontario regulation kits they are available in a deluxe version which exceeds safety requirements. In addition to the Ontario Section 10 Kit it is also required there is a stretcher and two blankets onsite at all times:

Organizations with 200+ Employees:

The employer must provide a First Aid Room in addition to the required Ontario Section 10 First Aid kits at each different work area. This First Aid Room must be in the charge of a registered nurse, or a worker holding a Standard First Aid certification who does not perform additional work of a nature that would affect his/her ability to administer first aid in the case of an emergency.

Automated External Defibrillators

In addition to the kits mentioned above, Automated External Defibrillators or “AEDs” are a highly reccomended item. These devices have the power to save lives.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on May 25, 2015September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

Tips for Staying Safe in the Sun and Treating Burns

Tips for Staying Safe in the Sun & Treating Burns

As the weather heats up it’s important to keep sun safety in mind. Although the sun can be very enjoyable it’s important to understand the negative effects of prolonged exposure and how you can prevent it from causing you discomfort or long term effects.

Suntans and Sunburns

Although it may be your summer goal, suntans are dangerous as they are a version of sun damage. Consistent or lengthy unprotected exposure to the sun can cause moderate to severe sunburns (ie. Radiation Burns). Even though suntans/burns do heal over time, prolonged exposure can cause irreversible damage to the skin which can ultimately lead to dark spots, moles or even skin cancer.

The following are common items used to protect your body while in the sun:

Hat
Sunglasses
Umbrella
Sunscreen – Croc Bloc*
Water (too much is better than not enough!)

*Croc Bloc is exclusively available from First Aid Canada, main features of the product include: hypoallergenic, unscented, sweat-proof and water resistant, safe for children etc. click here for more information on Croc Bloc.

The following are common injuries caused by prolonged exposure to the sun:

Radiation Burns

Radiation burns can be a result from radiant energy produced by the sun, sun lamps and/or x-rays. It is important to minimize your time exposed to these powerful rays to avoid long-term damage:

Signs & Symptoms

Redness of affected area
Blistering

Treatment

Get out of the sun and protect area from further exposure
Relieve affected area with cool water or a wet towel
If the victim experiences signs of heat stroke seek medical assistance

Heat Cramps

Excess heat and dehydration can cause the body to lose imperative salts and water content. If the body is unable to replenish itself without food or water, muscle heat cramps will occur. Heat cramps are commonly cause by physical activity in the summer heat.

Signs & Symptoms

Pain and spasms in muscles or cramps due to overuse
Difficultly moving affected muscle
Sweating, fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea
Shock

Treatment

Get out of the sun and protect area from further exposure
Give food (salty snack/sport drink) and water to drink if victim isn’t nauseous
Stretch and massage the cramp (Do NOT place cold compress on affected area)

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Heat exhaustion is a reaction to sustained heat and sweating. If heat exhaustion is left untreated it will lead to heat stroke, which is more severe and can become life threatening. Here are signs and symptoms to look out for regarding heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

Signs & Symptoms

Fear, anxiety, confused and/or disoriented
Over-sweating, nausea, dizziness, headaches
Restlessness, weakness, including a weak, rapid pulse
Warm/dry (lack of sweating) skin temperate, vomiting, convulsions, unconsciousness (Heat Stroke ONLY)

Treatment

Move victim to a cool spot and remove as much clothing as possible
Cover lightly if victim feels cold
Have victim drink water to if they do not feel nauseous
Advise victim to drink ‘sport’ beverages to restore depleted body salt
Call 9-11 if level of consciousness decreases or heat stroke is evident

The sun can be a very dangerous aspect of the summer season. To avoid discomfort, sickness and long-term effects of the sun it is important to use the tips mentioned above. Protect yourself to live a happy and healthy life.

Life is Precious. Be Prepared.

Posted on May 19, 2015September 8, 2023 by Ryan T

How to Use Heat and Ice to Treat Injuries

Reccomendations for Staying Safe at the Cottage

There’s no better season than cottage season. With summer approaching quickly it’s important to be sure you’re ready for your first weekend of relaxation. First Aid Canada is here to provide you with the products to keep safe over the summer season in the comfort of your cottage. Below are the minumum, mandatory items each cottage kit should contain:

The Basics (necessary items):

* All of the products listed above are included in our Deluxe Cottage Kit. For the entire list of kit contents please click here.

Additional Products (you may want to consider more of these):

All of these products are available at FirstAidCanada.com. Shop away and get all of your cottage safety supplies from one, 100% Canadian owned and operated source.