Imagine that you are at the beach with your family and your uncle suddenly falls to the ground. He is not breathing. An ambulance is on its way, but it will take at least eight minutes to arrive. What would you do? Most teenagers, and many adults, would have no idea.
This is why I believe that every school should teach first aid, starting in seventh grade. When the heart stops, every minute counts. After only a few minutes without oxygen, the brain begins to suffer damage. A person who knows how to do chest compressions can keep blood moving to the brain until help arrives. In many cases, this is the difference between life and death.
Some people say that teenagers are too young for such a heavy responsibility. I disagree. Teenagers learn new skills quickly, and the basic steps are simple: check if the person responds, call for help, and push hard and fast in the center of the chest. In some countries, such as Denmark, lessons like these are already part of the school program, and more people there now survive when their heart suddenly stops.
Others say that schools are already too busy. But a first-aid course does not have to take much time. Two lessons a year, with a trained instructor and a practice doll, would be enough to give students the confidence to act.
First aid is not just another school subject. It is a gift that you can give to a stranger, to a friend or even to your own family.