You are at a family reunion when suddenly Uncle Joe collapses. A panicky feeling sets in. What’s next? This exact scenario demonstrates the importance of first aid certification. The skills you learn in these courses won’t sit around gathering dust. They will be your sidekicks during emergencies.

You might think: “I’ve got my phone.” I can call the 911.” Yes, but think about the first responders who are in traffic or far away. Every tick of time counts. Knowing CPR is a lifesaver. It can keep Uncle Joe alive until the professionals arrive. Crikey! Isn’t that amazing?

CPR can provide a breath-of-fresh-air, both literally and figuratively. Blood circulation is maintained by chest compressions. Imagine that you have no fuel in your car. This is a heart with no oxygenated blood. Your hands can keep that engine going. Pure magic, yes?

It’s like having an automatic Swiss Army Knife inside your brain. Burns, cuts and sprains happen more than we like to admit. When you know the basics of how to care for a wound or how to apply ice to it, a potentially life-threatening event can be turned into a minor mishap. It’s as if you had an invisible shield; you just swoop into the situation, resolve the issue and presto, the day’s greatest hero.

I took a class once. Let me paint you an image. My instructor Dave, let’s just call him Dave, told stories that would make the band envious. Dave said with wide eyes, “A kid fell suddenly at a soccer game. The coach started CPR.” Although there was no AED available, the child survived thanks to those chest compressions. A pin could be heard. His stories were proof that a bit of information goes a very long way.

This is the best part: they are often hilarious. The courses include hands-on exercises, role-playing games, and even a CPR Bob dummy. This is a fun, yet effective way to learn. Imagine the camaraderie. A group of friends learning together and practicing maneuvers. They laugh and joke with each other.

You say, “I don’t have enough time. I am busy with soccer, meetings and everything else.” It is funny to note that many courses can now be taken online. They are self-paced and flexible. Would you like to be a deer stuck in the headlights of a car or the coolest cat pulling other people out of the flames? Exactly. You will find little snippets, perhaps during your daily commute, the lunch hour or right before going to bed.

The courses are usually very affordable, and in some cases even free. You will get more out of it than you can imagine. This knowledge is for everyone.

Grab your thinking hats! Have you ever argued a disagreement with a toddler before? First aid can help you to deal with minor cuts and bruises, without causing drama. It’s amazing that you can fix minor problems and soothe tears. Priceless.

Imagine you and your friend are on a hiking trip, when a friend cuts themselves badly. Wouldn’t you rather calmly clean the wound and apply bandages than flail around like a frightened chicken? First aid makes this scenario a piece of cake.

Don’t forget: being prepared does not mean being paranoid. It’s being ready. You wouldn’t build a home without the groundwork, would you? These courses help all of us stand taller and react faster in emergency situations.

Get a CPR/first-aid course and learn first aid soon. It isn’t just a new skill. It gives you peace of heart, as we all navigate the everyday chaos. You can be the hero everyone wants to see!