Introduction:
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies launched the World First Aid Day in 2000. More than 100 societies of Red Cross and Red Crescent worldwide celebrate this day by organizing events on the second Saturday of September each year; to raise public awareness about how first aid can save lives in case of crises. The International Federation believes that first aid must be accessible to all people and should be an integral part of the development of societies.
Facts:
- Worldwide, an estimated 2 million people are killed and 50 million are injured in road crashes each year; as they are the leading cause of death among the 15-29 age group, given that 49% of deaths are pedestrians.
- For motorcyclists, wearing a motorcycle helmet can reduce the risk of death in the event of a crash (by up to 40%) and the chance of a serious injury (by up to 70%(.
- Seatbelts limit the risk of death by 45% to 50% for front-seat passengers and up to 75% for rear-seat passengers.
- Lack of oxygen (or hypoxia) is one of the most common causes of death among traffic accident victims; due to airway obstructions.
Objective:
Raise public awareness about how first aid can save lives.
Official date:
- Globally: September 8th, 2018.
- Locally: Dhul-Hijjah 28th, 1439H.
Theme:
First Aid Saves Lives on the Road
Traffic accidents are the 9th leading cause of death in the world, with more than 1 million deaths each year (according to WHO's Global Status Report on Road Safety 2015). Based on experience, we know that tremendous developments in the prevention of road traffic can be achieved through strenuous efforts and initiatives to better manage road traffic safety, better develop its policies, in addition to the development of the capacities of key stakeholders, particularly civil society organizations; to reduce the number of traffic accidents and provide appropriate treatment in a timely manner.