For many people, the Red Cross emblem is a symbol of humanity and safety. Today, there are more than 97 million people involved with the organization worldwide. These people are made up of medical and administration staff as well as large numbers of volunteers. A lot of people mistakenly believe the Red Cross is one organization. Instead of being one entity, the Red Cross is actually made up of several independent organizations that share the same principles and symbols. The organization works in all areas of the world doing everything from delivering Red Cross CPR training sessions to working on the battlefields in war torn countries.

The oldest organization is the International Committee of the Red Cross, which is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It was founded in 1863 by Henry Dunant, a Swiss businessman. Dunant was witness to the suffering present at the Battle of Solferino in Italy. Many men lost their lives due to poor sanitary conditions rather than the injuries they received some of which today would be considered minor. As a result of the lack of knowledge, hygiene and medical personnel, solders died long and often agonizing deaths. This suffering inspired him to found the ICRC. His actions were rewarded as he was the recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize in 1901.

Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross in 1881. She was a nurse who helped tend the wounded and dying soldiers on the battlefields of the American Civil War. Again these men often suffered cruelly as a result of lack of medically trained personnel. Female nurses were unusual and often well meaning ladies with few practical skills. President James Garfield officially recognized the American branch after many years of lobbying done by Barton. Clara Barton’s original idea was that the American branch would go above and beyond just treating the war wounded. If she was alive today she would be very pleased they are doing just that.

The American Red Cross works very hard to deliver useful health related training across the US. They provide first aid and CPR training to schools and colleges. They will also organize training in the workplace or arrange training sessions at your local chapter. When you take a Red Cross CPR training course you are guaranteed that you will have well qualified instructors who will help you to get your CPR certification. It lasts for one year after which you have to reapply. Why don’t you go to your local chapter today to find out more about the courses on offer?

Perhaps you could even volunteer your services for an hour or two per week. You should convince your workmates to take their Red Cross CPR certification too. If more people are trained in life saving skills we may be able do something about the appalling survival rates currently applicable to those who suffer a cardiac arrest. Go on do your bit today and get your CPR training booked now.