Differences between First Aid Programs

 Are you interested in taking a first aid course in Ottawa. Here is some in sight into taking a first aid course with the following providers. Today we will look at the different programs offered in the Ottawa area. Each one has its upside and down side. Hopefully this helps you to decide on the best course for your needs. For information on what level of training to take please see my post about the right level of first aid for your needs.

Canadian Red Cross

The Canadian Red Cross is Canada’s largest provider of first aid and CPR courses. They are part of a network of red cross and crescent organizations around the world that focus on bettering the lives of the individuals in the country where they operate and abroad.

The programs offered by the red cross are recognized across the country. They offer a variety of first aid courses to meet anyone’s need from a first timer to first responder. Their instructors are well trained and will often run their own business as they offer programs.

Lifesaving Society

The lifesaving society is focused on drowning prevention. They offer a variety of first aid programs to meet the needs of the average person and their lifeguards. There courses are less structured than other providers and can allow an instructor a lot of freedom on the way they present and set up the courses. Many of the instructors are younger than some of the other organizations and can relate well to a young audience. If you looking to become a lifeguard or want your first aid to have an aquatic focus for your camping or backyard pool, then this is a great provider for you.

Canadian Ski Patrol

The Canadian Ski Patrol is another national organization that offers specialized first aid courses. The Canadian ski patrol offers first aid courses that focus on providing treatment to skiers but also to events. Unfortunately, the Canadian ski patrol does not offer many Standard First Aid or lower courses. They typically only offer their Advanced First Aid courses which are aimed at future members of their organization. That being said if you have a passion for Skiing and are looking to take a detailed first aid course at a reasonable price this may be an option for you. As an added bonus you get to join a fantastic crew of volunteers that provide first aid service on the slopes and around the community.

Ottawa Paramedic Service

The Ottawa Paramedic Service offers various first aid and CPR courses in the Ottawa and surrounding area. They offer courses up to an Emergency First Responder Level. The course is not focused on any particular activity and the instructors strive to make it realistic for each participant. The course is quite structured however it is based in Ottawa and is frequently and quickly updated compared to some of the slower to react national agencies. These courses are still a lot of fun and come with some great post course reference material. The Ottawa Paramedic courses are set up for anyone that is looking to gain a general knowledge of first aid or renew their certification and they train many of the local government employees and large businesses.

Ottawa Heart and Stroke Foundation

The Ottawa Heart and Stroke Foundation and focused on providing convenient and affordable CPR and basic first Aid training. They do not currently offer any emergency or standard first aid courses instead choosing to focus on CPR. They are aimed at older adults and health system workers that work with older clients. Their courses focus on both treatment and prevention of heart disease and strokes. This provider is great for someone that needs only CPR training and wants to know a little more about heart disease.