On Saturday, August 15, for the first time in Saint-Martin, the National Sea Rescue Society (SNSM) organised a Citizen First Aid (PSC) training course.
Also provided by the civil protection service, this one-day training course allows participants to acquire essential reflexes in the face of an emergency.
From 8 a.m. to 18 p.m., eight participants, including three SNSM members and five external individuals, were trained by two volunteers. Due to its popularity, the session limited enrollment to maintain a small group and ensure optimal training conditions. Priced at €70 per person, these courses also contribute to the association's funding and are expected to be offered every two months, according to Hélène De Bruges, president of the local SNSM branch.
The program included: protecting the victim and the rescuer, assessing the victim, learning how to raise the alarm, and also how to react to bleeding, airway obstruction, fainting, trauma, or cardiac arrest. The day concluded with a practical exercise and the presentation of their PSC (First Aid Certificate). Recognized by the French government, the training is provided under the SNSM's accreditation as a civil defense association.
Slightly less than half of a €9000 grant from the Collectivity was used to purchase the necessary equipment, including mannequins. With this initial session, the SNSM (French Sea Rescue Society) aims to empower the residents of Saint-Martin to play a more active role in the emergency response chain. A longer, team-based First Aid (PSE) training course is planned for early next year.
No refresher training is required for the PSC (First Aid Certificate), but renewal every two years is recommended to maintain proper skills. Nicolas Obry, a volunteer instructor, himself used these techniques to help someone suffering a cardiac arrest before joining the SNSM (French Sea Rescue Society). Years later, he met up with this man, who thanked him. "It's a pleasure," he says, smiling. _DR
To learn about Citizen First Aid, contact us by email: [email protected]
