Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing faculty member Prof. Dr. Gülten Sucu Dağ and Department of Nursing First and Emergency Aid Program Coordinator Dr. Gülcan Dürüst Sakallı issued a statement entitled “World First Aid Day: Accurate Knowledge, Timely Intervention, A Life-Saving Step” on the occasion of World First Aid Day. The statement included the following:

“Observed every September, World First Aid Day is marked through various activities around the world with the aim of raising public awareness about first aid and improving individuals’ ability to respond correctly and promptly in emergency situations. Celebrated each year under a different theme, this special day emphasizes that first aid is not merely an individual skill, but also plays a vital role in helping communities remain prepared for emergencies, demonstrate solidarity, and support one another in times of need.

The theme of World First Aid Day 2026 has been designated as “On the Move, But Not Alone.” The theme draws attention to the importance of ensuring that individuals are not left alone in emergency situations, supporting one another when needed, and acting collectively as a community in matters related to first aid. Promoting first aid knowledge throughout society helps individuals become better prepared for emergencies not only for their own safety, but also for the safety and well-being of those around them.

First aid encompasses the actions taken with the resources available in cases of accidents, injuries, or sudden health problems until medical teams arrive at the scene, with the primary aim of preserving life. In an emergency, the first person to provide assistance is often not a healthcare professional, but someone who happens to be nearby. This further highlights the importance of first aid training for society as a whole.

A correct intervention carried out at the right time can save lives. Simple yet appropriate actions, such as initiating basic life support, responding correctly to severe bleeding, or contacting emergency medical services without delay, can be vital in emergency situations. For this reason, it should be remembered that first aid knowledge is not merely a professional skill required of healthcare workers; it is important for every member of society to have basic first aid knowledge.

First aid training not only equips individuals with knowledge and practical skills, but also gives them the confidence to respond appropriately in an emergency. Therefore, it is of great importance to ensure the continuity of first aid training and to make it accessible to different segments of society.

Raising awareness of first aid is important not only for responding to individual emergencies, but also for strengthening communities’ preparedness for disasters and other emergency situations. In traffic accidents, workplace accidents, accidents at home, natural disasters, and many other emergencies that may occur in daily life, having basic first aid knowledge can help ensure that the critical period before professional medical teams arrive is managed more effectively and appropriately.”