World First Aid Day
A few minutes of first aid can be the difference between life and death.
About
World First Aid Day on the second Saturday of September — most commonly September 12 — is dedicated to raising awareness of how first aid saves lives and to training more people in basic life-saving skills. In emergencies — cardiac arrest, choking, bleeding, burns, falls — the actions of bystanders in the first minutes before professional help arrives can determine survival and recovery. Yet first aid training remains far from universal: many people lack even basic skills like CPR, the Heimlich manoeuvre, or wound care. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) coordinates the day globally, running training events, public demonstrations, and advocacy campaigns for first aid education in schools and workplaces. The day also highlights the importance of well-stocked first aid kits at home, in vehicles, and in public spaces, and the psychological first aid that can support people in emotional distress or shock.
History
World First Aid Day was established in 2000 by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The day falls on the second Saturday of September each year. It was created to highlight the importance of first aid in preventing deaths and disabilities from accidents and emergencies, and to motivate more people to learn and maintain first aid skills.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
The American Red Cross is a primary provider of first aid and CPR training in the US. World First Aid Day prompts training campaigns and the rollout of public-access defibrillators (AEDs) in schools, offices, and public spaces. Bystander CPR rates in the US have improved significantly through public education.
KR South Korea
South Korea has invested significantly in public AED deployment and CPR training. World First Aid Day is used to promote the 'bystander CPR' culture through mass training events in schools, workplaces, and community centres.
JP Japan
Japan has an exceptionally high density of public AEDs and relatively high rates of bystander CPR. World First Aid Day in Japan focuses on maintaining and extending these capabilities, and on training for earthquake-specific first aid scenarios relevant to the country's seismic risk.
How to Participate
- 01Sign up for a first aid or CPR course through your local Red Cross or St John Ambulance
- 02Check and restock your home and car first aid kits
- 03Learn the locations of the nearest public AED to your home and workplace
- 04Teach a child the basics of calling for help in an emergency
Frequently asked questions
When is World First Aid Day?+
World First Aid Day is observed annually on September 12. The date is fixed each year — September 12 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is World First Aid Day?+
World First Aid Day on the second Saturday of September — most commonly September 12 — is dedicated to raising awareness of how first aid saves lives and to training more people in basic life-saving skills. In emergencies — cardiac arrest, choking, bleeding, burns, falls — the actions of bystanders …
Is World First Aid Day a public holiday?+
World First Aid Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in World First Aid Day?+
Sign up for a first aid or CPR course through your local Red Cross or St John Ambulance Check and restock your home and car first aid kits Learn the locations of the nearest public AED to your home and workplace These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe World First Aid Day?+
Global — IFRC and National Red Cross/Red Crescent Societies.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss World First Aid Day.
US United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Canada
KR South Korea
JP Japan