Many people fear being sued for coming to the aid of someone with an injury. This same fear often prevents people from getting trained in first aid. The clear message in the parable of the Good Samaritan is that assisting those in trouble is the right thing to do.

There is no general legal duty to help someone in an emergency except for a person who is involved in a motor vehicle accident. That person must stop and give all possible assistance to the persons involved. A failure to do so could mean being charged under the criminal code.

The law in every province in Canada encourages bystanders to give first aid. In BC, we have the Good Samaritan act. It specifically protects, against liability, citizens and medical professionals who act in good faith to give emergency assistance to ill or injured persons at the scene of an emergency. Under these laws, a person providing first aid who acts reasonably and prudently under the conditions of an emergency cannot be held responsible for the injuries suffered by the victim.

You never know when you are going to be called upon to assist in an emergency situation. It could be today. Register for a course and learn how to save a life. If you’re not sure which first aid/CPR course to take, please give us a call and we’ll be happy to help. Tel: 604-945-7277.