World First Aid Day highlights importance of training and correct emergency response

In observance of World First Aid Day, medical experts and international organizations are emphasizing the critical importance of widespread first aid training to save lives during emergencies.

Emergency and disaster expert Salih Acar highlights that individuals arriving first at a scene, such as a traffic accident, must prioritize personal safety, secure the environment, and call emergency services before assessing the victim. He stresses that basic knowledge regarding cardiac arrest is vital for the general public.

Dr. Serdar Yaşar warns against common medical misconceptions that can exacerbate injuries. He identifies five specific errors: applying substances like toothpaste to burns, tilting the head back during nosebleeds, attempting to revive unconscious persons with water or slapping, placing objects in the mouths of those having seizures, and giving water to someone choking.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement notes that first aid remains a core activity. Discussions around the day also highlight the vulnerability of aging populations, who face higher risks from chronic conditions and may struggle to access care during natural disasters or conflicts.