Why First Aid Training Still Matters — And Nitro Has Thoughts

Lianne Sinclair
2 days ago
2 min read

It’s been a while since we’ve shared a blog update, and our mascot Nitro has been pacing at the door with his tail wagging, ready to remind everyone why first aid training still matters—whether you’re a parent, a safety coordinator, a worksite supervisor, or someone who just likes being prepared.

While he’s not officially certified (paws make CPR compressions tricky), Nitro knows one thing for sure: when emergencies happen, being trained makes all the difference.

Smiling dog, people discussing first aid in background. Green first aid kit. Text: "WHY FIRST AID TRAINING STILL MATTERS—AND NITRO HAS THOUGHTS." — Skills save lives. Confidence comes from training. Nitro just makes it more fun.

Why First Aid Training Matters in Alberta: Compliance and Real Confidence

In Alberta, first aid isn't just a checkbox—it’s a legal obligation under the Occupational Health and Safety Code. Employers must ensure that workplaces have the right:

• Level of training

• Type and quantity of equipment

• Number of trained first aiders

These requirements depend on factors such as hazard level, number of workers, and distance from emergency medical services.

In simple terms: it’s not just about having a kit in a cupboard. It’s about being ready when it matters.

Real Preparedness vs. Just Passing a Course

There’s a difference between “I completed a course once” and “I feel confident to help.” True learning comes from realistic scenarios, teamwork, reflection, and practice.

Whether it's Basic, Intermediate, BLS, Advanced First Aid, MFR, or EMR—quality training builds confidence.

Nitro says: “You wouldn’t trust someone to play fetch just because they read about tennis balls.”

Did You Know?

According to the Canadian Red Cross:

• About 40,000 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals in Canada each year.

• When CPR and an AED are used early, survival rates can increase up to 75%.

• Most people hesitate to help—often because they’re afraid they’ll do it wrong.

That’s where training makes all the difference.

(This is where Nitro tilts his head and says, “Doing something is better than doing nothing.”)

What’s New at AHASTI?

We’ve been busy behind the scenes to keep our training current, practical, and relevant:

✔ Expanded language support for training—English, Punjabi, Hindi, and more

✔ Mobile Training Unit scheduling for onsite corporate and industrial training

✔ Realistic injury and lifelike training scenarios

✔ Improved course pathways for instructor candidates and responder-level programs

Nitro’s Reminder

First aid isn’t just for worksites—it's for families, coaches, teachers, community groups, and everyday life. Emergencies don’t wait for business hours.

He recommends keeping your certifications current. (He also recommends more snacks during class breaks.)