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In any workplace, the safety and well-being of employees should always be a top priority. Emergencies can happen without warning, and being prepared can mean the difference between a minor incident and a life-altering event. First aid certification ensures that your team is ready to respond effectively, protecting both employees and your business. Beyond being a vital safety measure, first aid training also aligns with legal requirements. In Alberta, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) laws mandate that workplaces must assess their needs and ensure adequate first aid coverage. They also provide clear guidelines on how workplaces should address emergencies based on the number of employees and the nature of the work​. Alberta.ca While the importance of first aid training is clear year-round, December is an ideal time to focus on equipping your workplace with this essential skill. As the year winds down, many businesses experience a natural slowdown, making scheduling individual or group training sessions easier without disrupting operations. Moreover, planning first aid certification now allows your team to enter the new year fully prepared, with safety as a key part of your organizational goals. Preparedness Saves Lives and Boosts Morale First aid certification equips employees to handle medical emergencies swiftly and effectively. Whether it’s providing CPR during a cardiac arrest or administering care for a workplace injury, these skills can save lives and reduce the severity of injuries. This immediate response not only protects the individual in need but also creates a culture of care and preparedness. Employees feel safer knowing their workplace prioritizes their well-being. A well-trained team also contributes to a proactive safety culture. Employees become more mindful of potential hazards and feel empowered to take action when something seems unsafe. December offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the past year's safety practices, identify areas for improvement, and ensure your team is set up for success in the new year. Financial and Legal Benefits Workplace injuries can result in significant costs—from lost productivity to legal and compensation expenses. By investing in first aid training, employers reduce these risks and may even see financial incentives. Programs like Alberta’s Certificate of Recognition (COR) reward organizations with strong safety programs through discounts on workers’ compensation premiums . Starting or renewing training in December ensures compliance and can give your business a strong footing heading into January. Why Pre-Scheduling First Aid is Essential Now The new year often brings a surge of activity, making it harder to find time for additional training. Pre-scheduling your team’s first aid certification ensures you’re ahead of the curve. It also gives employees confidence that safety is a priority for your business moving forward. If December is too busy, locking in dates for January allows for seamless planning and helps avoid the rush of the post-holiday period. Start Planning Your Training Today At AHASTI, we make it easy for you to schedule first aid and CPR training tailored to your workplace needs. Whether you're planning a session for December or pre-scheduling for the new year, our flexible options ensure that your team is prepared for anything. Contact us today at www.ahasti.ca to book your training and set your team up for a safer, more prepared 2025.

Winter brings beautiful snowfalls and crisp air, but it also comes with unique risks. As temperatures drop, the likelihood of cold-weather emergencies rises. Here’s a guide to staying safe and prepared this winter, with essential first aid tips for common seasonal hazards. Frostbite and Hypothermia: Recognizing and Reacting Frostbite happens when the skin and the tissues beneath it freeze, typically impacting extremities such as fingers, toes, ears, and noses. Signs : Pale, cold, or numb skin that may feel hard. Severe cases can lead to blackened tissue. First Aid : Move the person to a warm area. Warm the affected area gently using body heat or warm (not hot) water. Avoid rubbing or applying direct heat, as this can cause more damage. Hypothermia , a life-threatening condition, occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce. Signs : Shivering, slurred speech, confusion, drowsiness, or loss of consciousness. First Aid : Get the person to a warm place and remove wet clothing. Wrap them in blankets and provide warm (not hot) beverages if they are alert. Seek medical attention immediately. Slips, Trips, and Falls: Common Cold Weather Accidents Ice and snow make for slippery conditions, increasing the risk of falls. Injury Management : For minor bruises or strains, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. For suspected fractures or sprains, immobilize the injured area and seek medical care. Always check for head injuries if someone falls hard, especially on ice. Winter Vehicle Preparedness: Your Mobile First Aid Kit A car emergency kit is a must-have in winter. Here’s what to include: Basic first aid supplies: bandages, antiseptic wipes, and gloves. Thermal blankets or space blankets for warmth. Hand warmers and extra socks. A flashlight with extra batteries. High-energy snacks and water. Taking a first aid course ensures you’ll know how to use these supplies when it matters most! They also make great holiday gifts. Snow Sports Safety: On-the-Go First Aid Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and sledding are exhilarating but come with risks. Common Injuries : Sprains, fractures, and cuts. First Aid Tips : Immobilize injured limbs and keep the person as comfortable as possible. Use a clean cloth to stop bleeding from cuts and apply pressure until help arrives. Always wear proper protective gear to prevent injuries. Carbon Monoxide Awareness: A Silent Winter Danger Cold weather often means using heaters and fireplaces, increasing the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Signs : Headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and fatigue. First Aid : Move the person to fresh air immediately. Call emergency services and avoid re-entering the area until it’s safe. Stay Prepared This Winter with AHASTI At AHASTI, we believe preparation is the best prevention whether braving icy sidewalks, hitting the slopes, or simply keeping your home cozy, having first aid knowledge can make all the difference. Join one of our first aid and CPR courses to prepare for any winter emergency. Classes are available in Calgary, Red Deer, or through our Mobile Training Unit. Plus, Nitro, our lovable mascot, might pop in to say hello! Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the season! Explore our courses and sign up today at www.ahasti.ca . Use discount "fall24" and SAVE!

Our very own Heart Helper Pup, Nitro, is always ready to lend a paw when it comes to promoting safety. Nitro knows that being prepared means more tail wags and fewer worries! Let Nitro inspire you to take the leap and learn how to protect your pets in any situation. Red Cross Pet First Aid: Be Your Pet’s Hero! 🐾 Your pets are more than just animals—they’re family. Whether it’s a loyal pup or a curious kitty, they bring so much joy to your life. But would you know how to help them in an emergency? That’s where our Red Cross Pet First Aid course comes in! This online course is designed for pet owners who want to be prepared for anything. From minor scrapes to serious emergencies, you’ll gain the confidence and skills to care for your furry companions when they need you most. Why Take Pet First Aid? Accidents happen, even to the most careful pet parents. Your dog might cut their paw on a hike, or your cat might get into something they shouldn’t. Knowing how to act quickly and effectively could make all the difference. With the Red Cross Pet First Aid course, you’ll learn: Injury prevention tips to keep your pets safe at home and outdoors. How to recognize signs of illness or distress. Basic emergency care, like wound treatment and what to do if your pet is choking. When to seek professional help. The course is perfect for pet owners, pet sitters, and anyone who spends time with animals. Learn from the Comfort of Home This course is 100% online, so you can learn at your own pace and on your schedule. Whether you’re relaxing on the couch or sipping coffee in your favourite spot, you can access valuable lessons and resources with just a few clicks. Plus, there’s no pressure! You can revisit the material as often as you need, ensuring you feel confident and ready to handle whatever comes your way. Click here it register - Pet First Aid

Book your Intermediate (Standard) First Aid course with a Panjabi/English-speaking Instructor!

Cardiac arrest strikes over 40,000 Canadians each year, often in public settings where immediate bystander action can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival. CPR Month aims to empower Canadians with essential training, ensuring more people are ready to help in emergencies. Learning CPR and AED skills can be a game-changer in situations where every second counts. During a cardiac arrest, oxygen needs to keep flowing to the brain and organs, which CPR can help maintain until emergency services arrive. AEDs, increasingly available in public spaces, guide users through life-saving steps to restore a normal heart rhythm. With the right training, anyone can confidently take on this responsibility. To support CPR Month, AHASTI offers Canadian Red Cross-certified courses, from beginner to advanced, ensuring everyone can gain life-saving skills at their comfort level. These hands-on sessions blend knowledge with practice, allowing participants to become more comfortable and proficient with each step. This November, AHASTI is offering a special 10% discount on all CPR and AED courses to encourage more people to sign up—just use the code Fall24 at checkout! Getting trained yourself is a powerful step, but there’s also an opportunity to spread awareness. When you share the importance of CPR with friends, family, and even colleagues, you’re helping build a safer, more prepared community. Raising awareness and encouraging others to get trained can multiply the impact, ensuring that more people can act quickly in an emergency. CPR Month is about more than just individual training; it’s about creating a community that’s prepared to help each other. By joining a CPR class, you’re not only acquiring valuable skills but also joining a network of proactive, safety-conscious individuals. Empower yourself, become prepared, and take advantage of the 10% discount this month by signing up with AHASTI using code Fall24. Together, let’s make our communities safer, one CPR course at a time!

Greetings, dear readers! Have you ever pondered upon the crucial role that child and pet car seats play in our daily lives? Buckle up and get ready as we delve into the fascinating world of child and pet car safety seats, uncovering why they are an absolute necessity for every family on the go! The Importance of Child Car Seats Protecting Little Passengers: Child car seats are not just another accessory; they are a fundamental safety measure designed to safeguard our most precious cargo—our children. These specially designed seats provide crucial protection in the event of unforeseen accidents or sudden stops, ensuring our little ones are shielded from harm. Legal Requirement: Did you know that using a child car seat is not optional but mandatory by law? By securing your child in a certified car seat appropriate for their size and age, you prioritize their safety and comply with legal regulations to prevent avoidable tragedies. Peace of Mind for Parents: Picture this: cruising down the road, knowing your child is securely fastened in their car seat, protected and comfortable. Child car seats offer peace of mind to parents, allowing them to focus on the road ahead without worrying about their precious bundle in the backseat. The Need for Pet Car Seats Ensuring Pet Safety: Like our children, our furry companions deserve a safe and secure ride. Pet car seats are specially designed to keep pets restrained during car journeys, preventing them from roaming freely and causing distractions that could lead to accidents. Minimizing Injuries: In the unfortunate event of a sudden stop or collision, unrestrained pets can become projectiles within the vehicle, endangering both themselves and the human occupants. Pet car seats provide a designated space for pets, reducing the risk of injuries to everyone in the vehicle. Preventing Stress and Anxiety: For many pets, car rides can be stressful experiences. Secured correctly in a comfortable car seat, pets are less likely to feel anxious or scared during travel, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable ride for both pets and their owners. In conclusion, child and pet car seats are not just accessories but essential safety tools that ensure the well-being of our loved ones, human and furry alike. By prioritizing safety and investing in quality car seats for children and pets, we take a proactive step toward creating a safer and more secure environment for everyone on the road. Next time you buckle up your child or secure your furry friend in their designated car seat, remember that you are making a difference in their safety and well-being. Stay safe, drive responsibly, and cherish the precious moments spent together on the road! Remember, safety first, always and forever! Let's keep our loved ones safe, snug, and secure on every journey! That's all for now. Until next time, happy and safe travels!

Babysitting is a crucial responsibility that requires more than just watching over children. It involves ensuring their safety and well-being and handling potential emergencies. This is where the Red Cross Babysitting Course comes into play, equipping aspiring babysitters ages 11 - 14 with the necessary knowledge, skills, and confidence to handle any situation that may arise while under their care. Why is a Babysitting Course Important? 1. Safety First Babysitting involves supervising children in various environments, from homes to public spaces. Knowing essential safety protocols, such as CPR, first aid, and childproofing, is indispensable for preventing accidents and responding effectively in emergencies. 2. Child Development Understanding A babysitting course covers child behaviour, emotional needs, and appropriate activities for different age groups. This knowledge helps babysitters engage children positively, fostering their emotional and cognitive development. 3. Building Trust with Parents Parents entrust their precious children to babysitters, expecting them to provide a safe and nurturing environment in their absence. By undergoing formal training, babysitters demonstrate their commitment to professional childcare, earning parents' trust and confidence. 4. Emergency Preparedness Accidents can happen when least expected. Babysitters trained in first aid, CPR, and emergency response are better equipped to handle crises effectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of the children under their care. Conclusion In conclusion, the Red Cross Babysitting Course plays a vital role in shaping responsible, knowledgeable, and prepared babysitters. By undergoing this training, individuals can enhance their caregiving abilities, contribute to the safety and development of children, and instill peace of mind in parents. Embrace the value of babysitting education and empower yourself to become a reliable and skilled babysitter! Nitro's role as equipment tester Imagine a furry, friendly companion assisting in refining the tools and resources of the Red Cross Babysitting Course. Nitro brought his unique charm and willingness to test the effectiveness of the program's materials. His dedication symbolizes the importance of continuous improvement to ensure that babysitters are equipped with the best resources for their vital role in childcare. AHASTI offers the Red Cross Babysitting courses in both Calgary and Red Deer locations or our Mobile Trianing Unit will come to your community to offer the course. Contact us at contact@ahasti.ca or call 403670-5406. To register - click HERE

The need for adequate rest often takes a back seat in the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced lives. Now, imagine you are behind the wheel, driving down the long stretch of a highway, the monotony of the road merging with the lull of a warm day. Your eyes feel heavy, and suddenly, without warning, your head bobs down for a split second before jerking back up. What just happened? You might have just experienced what is known as a micro nap. Many people coin the micro nap as the 'head bob', a brief episode of sleep lasting only a few seconds. A person can exhibit drowsiness in these fleeting moments without even realizing it. Have you ever caught yourself in a similar situation? The scary truth is that this common occurrence can happen to anyone, especially during monotonous activities like driving. Research suggests that during a micro nap, the brain enters a state where it fails to process external information effectively. This means that even though your eyes might be open, and you may appear awake, your brain is momentarily disengaged from the task at hand. In the context of driving, this mental lapse could be catastrophic, jeopardizing your safety and the safety of others sharing the road with you. Signs of Microsleep Identifying when you risk experiencing a micro nap is crucial for ensuring a safe driving experience. Some common signs to watch out for include: Heavy eyelids Yawning frequently Drifting between lanes Inability to recall the last few minutes of the drive Recognizing these signs and acknowledging that you may be at risk of a microsleep episode is the first step towards mitigating its impact on your driving abilities. Staying Alert on the Road So, how can we combat the dangers of microsleep while driving? Here are some tips to help you stay alert and focused behind the wheel: Get Adequate Rest: Prioritize a good night's sleep before embarking on long journeys. Being well-rested significantly reduces the chances of experiencing a micro nap. Take Breaks: During extended drives, make it a point to take regular breaks. Stop, stretch your legs, and give your mind a chance to recharge. Avoid Drowsy Driving: If you start feeling drowsy while driving, don't push through. Find a safe spot to pull over and rest or switch drivers if possible. Stay Engaged: Listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks while on the road to keep your mind active and engaged. Limit Night Driving: Driving at night can amplify feelings of drowsiness. Whenever feasible, opt for daytime travel to ensure optimal alertness. By being proactive and mindful of the signs of fatigue, you can protect yourself and those around you from the perils of microsleep episodes while driving. Nitro, the heart helper pup, reminds everyone that road safety is a shared responsibility. Let's each do our part to manage our tiredness and create a safer driving environment. Stay alert, stay safe!

Greetings to all our wonderful attendees at the recent World First Aid Day Event hosted by Nitro and AHAST! We wanted to take a moment to extend our heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you for making the event a huge success. Let's delve into the fun and insightful happenings of the day, for those of you who couldn’t make it and for those who wish to reminisce about the fantastic time spent together. The Event The event was a buzz of knowledge-sharing, interactive sessions, and practical demonstrations, all centered around the crucial theme of first aid and emergency response. From novice learners to seasoned professionals, the event catered to individuals of all ages eager to enhance their skills and understanding in this vital area. The atmosphere was vibrant, with attendees enthusiastically participating in workshops, simulations, and engaging discussions. The expert instructors from AHAST brought their wealth of experience to the forefront, guiding participants through various scenarios and imparting valuable insights that could save lives in critical situations. Impact and Learnings One of the most impactful aspects of the event was the hands-on practice that participants were able to engage in. From CPR techniques to wound care and basic first aid, everyone had the opportunity to roll up their sleeves and get a real feel for what it means to provide aid in times of need. The practical nature of these sessions not only boosted confidence levels but also instilled a sense of readiness to handle emergencies effectively. Apart from the educational aspect, the event fostered a strong sense of community. Attendees connected with like-minded individuals shared personal stories and forged new friendships based on a common passion for helping others. Looking Ahead As we reflect on the success of the World First Aid Event, Nitro and AHAST are filled with gratitude for the positive response and commitment shown by all attendees. Your eagerness to learn, engage, and support each other speaks volumes about the collective spirit of camaraderie and compassion that lies at the heart of first aid education. We look forward to organizing more such engaging events in the future, where we can continue to learn, grow, and make a difference together. Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming workshops on November 23, 2024, for Cardiac Crash! Learn hands-on CPR, but as if you are a participant in a game-show way. Again, thank everyone who participated in the World First Aid Event. Your enthusiasm and dedication inspire us to keep pushing boundaries, sharing knowledge, and building a network of first aid champions around the globe. Let's stay connected, stay prepared, and, most importantly, stay safe! Remember, being equipped with first aid knowledge and skills can make a world of difference in times of crisis. Stay informed, stay prepared – because every second counts.

Hey friends! It’s me, Nitro – your favourite heart helper pup from AHASTI, and I’ve got some pawsome news to share! Did you know that every year, on the second Saturday of September, we celebrate World First Aid Day ? Yup! This year, it falls on September 14, 2024 , and I'm here to tell you why it's such a big deal. What’s World First Aid Day? 🩹🌍 World First Aid Day is a special day when we come together to learn how to save lives! First aid might sound like something only doctors or paramedics should know, but the truth is, everyone – yes, even you – can be a hero by knowing some basic first aid skills. This global event is led by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to help people everywhere realize how important first aid knowledge is in everyday life. Emergencies can happen anywhere – at home, at school, in the park – and being prepared can make all the difference. That’s why organizations like the Canadian Red Cross are here to help us learn these life-saving skills. Why Should You Care? 🐶💡 You see, first aid isn't just about bandages or stopping a nosebleed (although those are super important too). It's about giving someone the care they need right away in an emergency before the professionals arrive. Imagine being able to help someone who’s choking or knowing what to do if a friend faints – pretty cool, right? Not to brag, but even us pups know the value of a good first aid kit and some CPR knowledge! (Okay, maybe I don’t have thumbs, but I can fetch help pretty fast!) Knowing first aid makes you feel confident, and as a heart helper pup, I can tell you that helping others makes your heart feel extra warm and fuzzy. ❤️ How Can You Join In? 🐕‍🦺 This year, AHASTI is celebrating World First Aid Day with a free First Aid Workshops at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM on September 14, 2024 . It’s the perfect time to come learn some life-saving skills, and I’ll be at the AHASTI Red Deer location from 10:00 AM - Noon with tail wags and helpful tips! We can event get a picture together! You’ll learn how to handle common situations like minor injuries and medical emergencies – all while having fun and feeling empowered! Space is limited so click here to reserve your spot today. First Aid Saves Lives – Be a Hero! 🦸‍♀️🦸‍♂️ Remember, first aid is for everyone! Whether you’re a human, a pup, or anything in between, learning these skills can make you a hero in your community. So let’s wag our tails and celebrate World First Aid Day by taking action. You can help save lives with just a little bit of training – and it feels great to be prepared! Come join me and the AHASTI team on September 14 for some hands-on learning, and let’s make the world a safer place – one paw-sitive step at a time. Stay pawsome, stay safe, and remember: knowing first aid is a gift to your heart and to those around you. Woof! 🐾❤️

Nitro, the adorable Heart Helper pup, is on a mission this week to ensure everyone stays safe from those pesky wasps and bees buzzing around. With the hot weather bringing them out in full force, Nitro wants to ensure you're prepared if you have a run-in with one of these sting-happy critters. The Buzz About Wasps and Bees Wasps and bees can be troublemakers, especially when they're more active in the summer. These buzzing bugs are not ones to mess with; they'll sting you in a heartbeat if they feel threatened. But fear not! Nitro is here to guide you on what to do if you find yourself on the wrong end of a stinger. Step 1: Ouch! You've Been Stung! So, you've been stung. The first thing to remember is not to panic. Take a deep breath and try not to yell too loudly; you might scare the neighbours! Step 2: Swatting Away the Pain Next, resist the urge to start swatting wildly at the sting site. If the stinger is still in the person's skin, gently scrape it out with a flat object such as a debit card. None of that finger-pinching action—let's keep it clean, folks! Wash the area with clean water, pat dry, and cover the site with an adhesive bandage. Nitro likes his superhero bandaids best. Step 3: Cool It Down To soothe the sting, apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth to reduce the swelling and pain. You'll thank yourself later when the redness starts to subside. Heck, you might even begin to feel as cool as a cucumber! Step 4: Cream of the Crop An antihistamine liquid or tablet, such as Benadryl, can help with itching and any potential minor allergic reactions and should be taken as directed by the medication label. Remember, it's all about comfort, not scratching yourself silly. In case of a severe reaction, like swelling of the lips, face, or neck, blotchy skin or hives, and breathing difficulties, immediate action is crucial—call 9-1-1. If the individual has known allergies that could trigger an anaphylactic response, they might carry an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an EpiPen. They will be familiar with its usage, or the instructions can be found on the label if assistance is needed. Step 5: The Waiting Game Now, settle in for some chill time. A Sting of Humor In typical Nitro fashion, here's a humorous take on dealing with a wasp sting: Why don't wasps get invited to picnics? Because they always buzz around uninvited! 🐝 🐶😂 Remember, laughter is the best medicine—even for wasp stings! You can tackle those sting encounters like a pro with Nitro's guide. Stay safe out there; don't let those buzzing bugs get the best of you. Nitro the Heart Helper pup is rooting for you, and together, we can conquer those pesky wasps and bees with a smile on our faces! Happy buzzing, and stay safe, everyone! This blog post is brought to you by Nitro, the Heart Helper pup—your go-to furry friend for all things safety and smiles!

In a world where every minute counts during a cardiac emergency, having the knowledge and tools to act swiftly can make the difference between life and death. Nitro, the adorable heart-helping pup, recently sat down with one of AHASTI's incredible Canadian Red Cross First Aid Instructors, Angel, where she shed light on how Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), when accompanying CPR compression, can have a profound impact in saving lives during cardiac events. Understanding AEDs AEDs are portable devices designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart in some cases of sudden cardiac arrest. These life-saving machines analyze the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, notify the responder to administer a shock that will disrupt the heart's electrical activity long enough to restore a normal heart rhythm. Intuitive and user-friendly, AEDs can be operated by individuals with minimal training, making them accessible in various settings, from schools and offices to public spaces. The Effectiveness of AEDs Angel informed Nitro about the effectiveness of AEDs in restoring normal heart rhythm. When deployed promptly, AEDs (along with starting CPR immediately) can significantly increase the survival rate of individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. Their ability to detect life-threatening arrhythmias and deliver a timely shock can be the crucial intervention needed to save a life. Angel also debunked common misconceptions surrounding AEDs, emphasizing that these devices are safe to use and do not require extensive medical training. Their automated nature guides users through each step, ensuring that even in high-stress situations, individuals can provide timely assistance to those in need. Importance of AED Awareness Angel's advocacy for AED awareness echoed the sentiment that knowledge is power when it comes to cardiac emergencies. By familiarizing ourselves with the location of AEDs in our communities and learning how to use them, we can all become empowered first responders capable of making a life-saving difference in critical moments. As Angel eloquently said, "A few simple steps can turn bystanders into lifesavers when it comes to cardiac emergencies." The accessibility and ease of use of AEDs make life-saving equipment more available to everyone, empowering everyday individuals to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of their communities. Join the Lifesaving Power of AEDs Angel's message resonates deeply: we all have the capacity to make a difference during cardiac emergencies. By familiarizing ourselves with the basics of AED operation and promoting AED awareness in our communities, we can create a network of vigilant individuals ready to respond swiftly when every second counts. Remember, as Angel highlighted, the true power of AEDs lies not just in their technology but in the hands of those willing to step up and be part of the life-saving mission. Let's heed Angel and Nitro's call to action and embrace the lifesaving potential of AEDs in our communities. Join AHASTI on September 14, 2024, for the FREE First Aid Workshops. During these workshops, everyone will have the opportunity to practice using an AED. To register, click here. Together, let's champion AED awareness and help save lives one heartbeat at a time. What topics would you like to see on Nitro's BLOG? We value your input! Please take a moment to comment below on topics you'd like to see covered in AHASTI's Nitro Talk series. Your ideas matter to us.