Health & Safety

The American Red Cross was founded in 1881. Although in its early years, its' services focused on disaster relief and services to the armed forces, the very first administrative unit set up in 1910 by the American Red Cross, was a department of first aid to the injured. 2010 marks a celebratory century of excellence in First Aid Training.

Health and Safety Services in the Southeast Louisiana Chapter has contributed to the local image of the American Red Cross because its programs and products promote significant interaction with the American public.  Programs in Health & Safety services respond to some of American’s leading health challenges: heart disease, stroke, choking, injury, and near drowning emergencies.

From first aid, CPR, AED and bloodborne pathogens training to swimming and lifeguarding, and babysitting training, American Red Cross programs help people lead healthier and safer lives.  Last year more than 42,000 people in Southeast Louisiana enrolled in American Red Cross Health & Safety training.   

Our aquatics program trains people in the community to be safe in, on, and around the water. Courses such as learn to swim programs, lifeguard classes, and water safety instructor training promote safe practices in water.  Last year alone, we trained over 800 new lifeguards and 88 new water safety instructors.  Through partnerships with the New Orleans Hornets, Lake Ponchartrain Basin Foundation, Tulane University and University of New Orleans, we offered free swimming lessons to over 1500 youth in the area. 

Through the youth programs, we conducted classes in Babysitting, Basic Aid Training, Scrubby Bear (proper hand-washing techniques) and WHALE Tales (water safety tips and practices).  For our four-legged friends, we hosted pet first aid courses which provide instructions for dog and cat CPR.  

We also awarded 4 Certificated of Merits to outstanding citizens in our area who answered the call above and beyond the call of duty. Within our 12 parish area, there is a class being conducted on a daily basis. At an average of one person every two hours, people are being trained in lifesaving skills in classes conducted by the Southeast Louisiana chapter of the American Red Cross.

The Southeast Louisiana Chapter adheres to the most up-to-date scientific data and research available in its field and courses are based upon the First Aid Guidelines and Consensus on Science and Treatment recommendations.  Programs are designed by international medical experts. The Workplace programs meet the need for workers to fulfill OSHA requirements at their places of employment or at a local Red Cross facility.

The mission of helping people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies is executed with a three-pronged Health & Safety training approach by offering community classes, by conducting workplace programs and by authorizing providers to teach first aid and other health and safety courses. Injury and sudden illness can occur at any time and any place. Health & Safety training help people stay safe at home, in the community and at the workplace.  

Click here to find out when the next First Aid Class is scheduled.

Click here to read the NPRC blog with releases updated frequently to inform the public of what we are doing.

Click here to read the Corporate Training Letter to learn more about changes in training course fees.