CPR / first aid refresher courses

[kindertime]

I have done many of these over the years, in Ont. and Que. Last time I called St. John Ambulance in Ottawa, I was told that for the first aid and CPR, if you haven't done it with them before or if you were more than three years out of date, or if you were up to date but with another agency, you had to take their whole weekend course (Sat and Sun). If you are up to date with them the refresher is one full day every 3 years.

In the system here, in order to be licenced, we have to have a full day (8hrs) every 3 years. Starting last year, we also have to make sure that the course includes a section on Epi-pen and severe allergies. Last time I took it, it was with the Heart and Stroke foundation. That's only cuz the guy who gives the course has chosen to go with them. And a lot of the info, especially in the CPR part has changed since I did it last. (I updated last Aug.) I have to say, though, I'm glad it's only every three years. I don't sleep for a week after taking it!

[Redhead]

If you are in Durham Region I know an excellent independent instructor who can come to your home and fit around your schedule. PM me for details

[Polkaroo]

FYI First aid and cpr only needs to be done every 2 years, I checked this year to be on the safe side.

[Tom]

All recognized training companies must follow the ILCOR standards for training. These standards are International guide lines which are agreed upon and the companies then set the programs which are taught by their instructors.
Certification is approved by the parent organization such as The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada,
St. John’s Ambulance, Red Cross etc.
Normally a Standard First Aid course (16 hours) with level C CPR certification is for 3 years with CPR being recertified every year but some of the organizations may have a CPR certification done every 3 years.
An Emergency First Aid course is not recognized n Alberta as a WCB or in Quebec CSST course but might be in other provinces (check with your local training companies).
There are some companies, usually owner operated which will teach their own courses and issue a certificate uder that company name. This type of certificate is not usually recognized by the WCB / CSST. Again, please check with your Provincial WCB / CSST.
If you are in Alberta, please contact me for further in formation.
Hope this helps.