The Ramblers recently introduced free first aid courses for members. These are run by the St John Ambulance and are tailor-made for walkers.

On a hot day at the end of July I went on the first one to be held in Guildford. Places were limited to twelve and the course was soon fully booked. It took place in the SJA HQ and lasted three and a half hours with a ten minute break in the middle. Five from G&H attended. The venue was spacious and comfortable; good air conditioning ensured that we stayed awake.

Our presenter was excellent. He checked that we were fit to proceed; pregnancy, back or knee problems could rule out participation. He wanted no casualties on a first aid course. During the morning we would have to get down on the floor to carry out procedures such as rolling each other into the recovery position and giving CPR to dummies.

I was familiar with the acronym ABC (for the primary survey of a casualty) and with the addition of DR in front of it (Danger to self, Response of casualty) but AMEGA was new to me. This helps remember the key steps when dealing with an emergency.
A: Assess the situation and look for hazards.
M: Make safe, ie minimise the risks from them.
E: Emergency aid, carry it out.
G: Get help if necessary; dial 999 or 112.
A: Aftermath, eg clean up the mess, take bloody bandages home with you; write up the accident report; stock up your first aid kit.

The time passed quickly. Much of the presentation is on the SJA website including videos of the techniques demonstrated. The SJA has an app for phones and tablets about first aid (as does the Red Cross). The Ramblers’ website in the Volunteer Zone has a section about first aid based on the SJA guidance.

We all found the course useful. It was an introduction for some and a refresher for others.