Abu Dhabi, Feb 14th, 2010 (WAM) -- The Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HA-AD), and the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), jointly organized four pilot First Aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training courses for school nurses, teachers, school bus drivers and school bus supervisors.
The pilot courses aimed at improving health outcomes and reducing disabilities and deaths due to injuries and other emergencies that may occur at school premises, during field trips or during transportation via school buses. Engineer Zaid Al Siksek, CEO of HAAD said: "First Aid training is an important part of providing quick and effective interventions in emergencies. Most injuries that require first aid are not life-threatening and can be treated by using simple procedures. However, knowing what to do and applying appropriate techniques during the first minutes of an emergency can save lives."Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Director of the Higher Colleges of Technology said: "HCT is proud to be an integral part of this initiative through the Center of Excellency for Research and Training (CERT), noting that health training and awareness in the field of public safety is an integral part of the colleges social responsibility. Knowledge in the areas of first aid and the preservation of life in the schools of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi will not only contribute to raising the level of safety in these schools, but would also have a positive impact on the community's confidence in the educational environment, thereby enhancing the capacity of young people and developing their talents", Dr. Kamali added. HAAD and HCT conducted 4 pilot courses in December 2009 targeting 12 school nurses, 11 school teachers, 4 school bus supervisors and 3 school bus drivers. Dr. Jennifer Moore, Section Head, Family and School Health at HAAD said: "The course is designed to give school staff the education, skills and confidence that they need to respond to major and minor emergencies, as well as the skills needed to promote safety and prevent unintentional injuries in schools, and the community. These skills not only help within the school environment but also in the wider community. HAAD encourages every school to ensure that they have trained first aid staff that are able to respond to emergencies"The pilot course will be developed throughout 2010; the First Aid and CPR course will be conducted in Arabic language and will target a wider number of schools in the Emirate.Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2010.
