Training Feature: All About First Aid

“OUCH!!”

A common enough word at Girl Scout events, but would you know what to do if a child or adult came to you with an injury? Don’t be scared, be prepared!  First aid and CPR trainings give you the confidence to be pro-active if someone is hurt during a Girl Scout activity. Symptoms and techniques are demystified and you get lots of hands-on practice. You’ll walk away with a two-year certification and increased opportunities for your girls.

And how great is that? Having someone certified in first aid and CPR allows you to take your girls on field trips, overnights, camporees and activities considered to be high-risk. Having a troop first aider allows your girls to get out and explore! And who doesn’t want that for Girl Scouts?

“What’s a troop first aider?” We understand that the term “first aider” is tricky. Your troop first aider is someone who is currently certified in BOTH first aid and CPR and AED use. 
“Do we need a certified person at each troop meeting?” As long as you’re at your regular meeting place, a first aider does not need to be present. Once you start going on field trips and leaving your meeting place, you must have a certified person with you.

“Does the leader have to be certified?” Not necessarily. Check with your troop parents – is one of them currently certified? Or is there a nurse, EMT or doctor among them who would be able to come along on your field trip? (They’ll love the outing!)  If not, then one of the leaders needs to take the training.

“Does Girl Scouts accept online certification?” No. These are not accepted by GSHNJ or GSUSA, as per Volunteer Essentials (see Chapter 4, Safety-Wise). In-person trainings allow students to receive one-on-one feedback on technique with the instructor. You’ll come away with better skills that will contribute to a positive outcome for the victim.

“Do I have to complete this training through council?” Not at all! Check your local facilities - you might find a convenient class close to home. Try contacting a clinic or hospital, YMCA, parks and rec departments, firehouses and rescue squads, or Operational Emergency Management. These groups frequently offer first aid and CPR trainings.

GSHNJ does offer first aid and CPR trainings through both the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross. Check our program calendar to find dates and register for upcoming trainings.

We have more information for you in the first aid/CPR Frequently Asked Questions on our website. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you at training@gshnj.org.

Now you’re ready for a successful outing with the girls – don’t forget to send us pictures!