The World First Aid Day is observed on the second Saturday of September, today, to highlight the importance of first aid saving lives.

The day aims to educate people about the crucial role first aid plays in facing and dealing with medical emergencies and encouraging them to come forward when a situation arises.

This year, the global theme for Red Cross World First Aid Day is “First Aid and Sport”.

Fine Tuitupou-Arnold, secretary general of Cook Islands Red Cross Society, said: “As we about to embark on the Cook Islands Games next month, let’s all make sure that everyone at the games are safe and have access to first aid.”

“I urge all participants and supporters … be vigilant, to be ready.”

She encourages people in the community who would like to help out during the Cook Islands Games, to become a Red Cross first aid volunteer.

Tuitupou-Arnold also anticipates that everyone participating in these Games have taken the time to train not just with their respective team but individually.

“Getting the body ‘fitness ready’ is imperative to not just lasting the distance for your team but so that you can actually enjoy the camaraderie of your supporters and the spirited competition that goes with these games before, during and afterwards.”

To date, 533 people have been trained in Red Cross first aid – 340 from January to June, and 193 this July, in Rarotonga, Mauke and Atiu.