Red Cross Programs (Page 20)

With the year winding to an end, we took a look back at some of our most engaging blog posts from 2018. With natural disasters and emergencies occurring across Canada and the world, these blogs reflect the willingness of people to help and some inspiring stories of people wanting to make a difference. Here are the top 10 blogs from 2018.

Leduc teen Rebecka Blackburn was enjoying an afternoon with family at the North Saskatchewan river in Devon in July 2018 when she noticed a man swimming in the water was in trouble. She didn’t hesitate to jump in and pull him to shore.

The Canadian Red Cross is working with the Cayman Islands Red Cross to help teach kids about their rights, bullying, promoting health dating relationships and more. Read how the programs work, and how we are collaborating to spread the message to young people. 

What do you think of when you hear 'first aid'? Cuts, blood, and bruises - any number of physical injuries may come to mind. Typically, first aid provides the skills to physically help save a life. However, first aid for the mind is just as important as first aid for the body. Learning psychological first aid skills for mental health crises could also save a life. This program is being introduced and offered by Canadian Red Cross training partners and online across Canada.

At the Red Cross, we have been teaching swimming and water safety in Canada since 1946. We give people the knowledge and confidence they need to stay safe when they are on, in, or near the water. We also provide the training and skills for a fun and rewarding job – lifeguarding!

Canadian Red Cross volunteer Leslie White has spent most of her life ensuring the safety of those around water. Now as a City of St. John’s, Facilities Supervisor with the Department of Community Services in Newfoundland, her team oversees four aquatic centres, recreation facilities and more than 100 staff, while she volunteers with the Red Cross in multiple capacities.

Becoming a mom has led me to reflect on my own childhood, my relationship with water and my experiences learning to swim. Now I’m seeing my own 3-year-old son fearlessly jumping in the water, learning to swim and loving the beach as much as I did.

With summer's hot weather driving Canadians in droves to water activities, take a moment to ensure you have the proper knowledge for safe water play with this quiz.