You’re sitting around the boardroom table when you notice the person next to you doesn’t look quite right.
They’re sweating. Their colour seems off.
Before you have time to process what’s happening, they slump forward onto the table — unresponsive.
What do you do?
More importantly… do you know what to do?
And does anyone else in the room?
Most of us understand that first aid is important — at least in theory. If we’re the ones who collapse, choke, or suffer a sudden medical emergency, we hope someone nearby knows how to help.
But emergencies don’t come with warnings. Sudden illnesses, injuries, and medical events are a natural part of life, whether we’re prepared for them or not. In moments like these, the actions taken before paramedics arrive can make the difference between life and death.
Knowing how to perform CPR or how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator) quickly and correctly can quite literally save a life. Calling EMS/9-1-1 is critical — but what happens in those first few minutes matters just as much.
Many people have picked up bits and pieces of first aid knowledge over the years.
While these moments raise awareness, they don’t provide comprehensive, hands-on first aid training — and that gap can become painfully clear during a real emergency.
That’s exactly why Durham First Aid takes a different approach.
At Durham First Aid, first aid training isn’t a side offering — it’s our entire focus. From babysitter training and individual certification to corporate and private group courses, we specialize exclusively in first aid and CPR education.
Doing one thing — and doing it well — allows us to deliver training that’s thorough, practical, and effective.
All of our instructors are employees of Durham First Aid and professional Red Cross instructors. That means your training is delivered by people who are fully invested in doing it right — not contractors rotating in and out.
We’re also firm believers in full compliance. Our courses follow the latest Red Cross guidelines and meet all Ontario OHSA and WSIB requirements.
If a workplace requires 8 hours of in-person training, you’ll receive the full 8 hours — not less.
Yes, this might make us unpopular with anyone hoping to leave class early. But those extra minutes could save a life.
Every part of first aid training exists for a reason.
Whether you’re faced with:
…you need to know exactly what to do — not just in theory, but in practice.
That’s why we emphasize realistic, hands-on training.
Instead of passively watching videos, our students train using:
These details matter. Knowing what proper chest compressions actually feel like builds muscle memory and confidence — both of which are critical when adrenaline is high and seconds count.
Our commitment to quality training has helped us build a strong local reputation across Durham Region. In recognition of that dedication, Durham First Aid was honoured as the Best First Aid & CPR Training Provider in Ontario at the 2023 Canadian Business Awards.
While awards are appreciated, they’re not our motivation.
We’re not trying to run the biggest classes or push the highest volume of students through our doors.
Our focus is simple:
Teach people how to respond correctly when it matters most.
When an emergency happens — in a boardroom, at home, or in public — we want you to feel prepared, confident, and capable of helping.
If you’re ready to invest in proper first aid and CPR training, we’re here to help.
👉 Contact Durham First Aid today to learn more about our course offerings and upcoming training sessions.
