Learning simple first aid techniques can give you the skills and confidence to help anyone in your home, your neighborhood, or at work.

When a disaster occurs, loved ones can be hurt but emergency response may be delayed. Becoming trained in First Aid, CPR, and in the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) is a simple lifesaving step toward self-sufficiency in any emergency.

Your local chapter offers hundreds of courses on these topics. Everything from certification classes to education seminars to large business groups. The American Red Cross, Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter trains 50,000 individuals annually and can train you, too. Register online at swpa.redcross.org or call 413-261-3128 to learn more.

Even if you are not trained, you can still do the following at any emergency: (1) Check the scene for safety and the victim for life-threatening conditions; (2) Call 9-1-1 and request help; (3) Care for the victim if you can reach the person safely.