Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) is well known and highly regarded for their nationally implemented Community-Based First Aid (CBFA), traditional First Aid and safety activities. Through trained and competent RCVs, communities are assisted to address the most prevailing public health concerns, particularly in times of emergencies and disasters.

The MRCS Training Division is responsible to support local RCVs and ensure their FA skills are current and maintained at proficiency level to protect life, minimize the impact of injuries, illnesses and stabilize the condition of those injured until professional help is available. Working auxiliary to Government and with communities, CBFA, FA and safety actions work towards a healthy and safer environment.

Components and Activities

Objective
A strengthened MRCS and its nationwide network of volunteers support communities to better identify their health needs, respond with effective first aid and promote self-sufficient health care.

Activities

I. First Aid and Safety Education

Training of Trainers for Staff and RCVs:
-First Aid Instructors Training
-FA Refresher Training for Trainers
-Psychological Support Training
-Water Safety and Life Guarding Instructors Training
-CPR and Basic Life Support Training
-Facilitation Skills Training (planned Nov 2007)

IEC Development, Printing and Distribution
-FA manuals, Teaching materials

FA and Safety Education for Community Members
-Basic Swimming Course
-Basic First Aid Course
-First Aid Training for Employees, Caregivers
-Standard FA
-Road Safety and Accident Prevention
-CPR and BLS
-Psychological Support Training
Review Meetions
Field Monitoring

II. Community-Based First Aid (CBFA)
- CBFA Training of Trainers/Refresher Training
- CBFA Multiplier Training in the community
- Organization of Community FA Committees
- Mobilization of Community for FA response through community committees
- Provision of FA Kits and materials support
- Field Monitoring and Supervision
- Evaluation

III. FA Promotion and Awareness Building
- World First Aid Day Celebration
- FA competition
- Distribtion of FA promotional materials
- Tri-Media Support for FA publication and broadcast

Target Beneficiaries
RCVs
Teachers and students
General community
Staff of private companies, NGOs and INGOs wokers

Project Timeline
FA has been a major activity of the MRCS since its inception
CBFA 1996 - on-going

Target Areas
All States and Divisions
Community-Based health project areas

Partner
Funding - IFRC, ICRC (2004-06)

Collaborative
Department of Health
Other Government Sectors
University of Yangon, Department of Psychology