All new drivers to learn first aid

All new drivers to learn first aid – a good idea? What are your thoughts? Read the below information and make your decision

A new Bill is being debated in Parliament today which could mean that all new drivers are required to learn first aid.

This bill follows the failed attempt to get all school children first aid trained in a bill that was rejected last November.

The bill would require those learning to drive to attend a four-hour practical first aid course as part of receiving a driving licence.

1,780 people have been killed on British roads in the last 12 months and a total of 23,700 were seriously injured.

A survey found that 59% of people in Britain wouldn’t feel confident enough to save a life at the scene of an accident. Shockingly around 24% would do nothing until an ambulance arrived.

The Bill would ensure motorists were equipped with basic first aid skills which could help save thousands of lives each year. This would not only be on Britain’s roads, but in a range of emergency situations.

Many other European countries such as Switzerland and Germany, already have first aid as a mandatory requirement for obtaining a driving licence.

Joe Mulligan, the head of first aid education, said:

“Where someone is seriously injured or fighting for their lives, every second counts. It is vital that the first person on the scene of a road traffic accident – who will most likely be another driver – knows how to keep someone alive. Just knowing how to roll an unconscious but breathing casualty onto their side and lift their chin can be all it takes to save a life.”

Figures show that around 63% of the UK population aged between 21 and 29 have a driving licence. Think how many lives could be saved if this bill was to be passed.

If you would like to become first aid trained then get in contact.