Every year, Heimlich Maneuver Day reminds us that choking emergencies can happen anywhere — at restaurants, backyard cookouts, family dinners, schools, sporting events, and even at home with young children. The good news?A few simple first aid skills can save a life. But this year, there’s an important update everyone should know. The 2025 Choking Care Guidelines Have Changed For years, many of us were taught to immediately begin abdominal thrusts (commonly called the Heimlich maneuver) when...

Knowing Where to Go Could Save Time — Or Save a Life When someone suddenly gets sick or hurt, panic can set in fast. Do you drive to urgent care? Head straight to the emergency room? Call 911? Making the right choice can save you time, money, and in some cases, a life. Here’s a simple guide to help you know where to go when medical situations happen. When to Call 911 If a condition could be life-threatening, call 911 immediately. Do not try to “wait it out” or drive yourself if symptoms are...

A day at the beach, a long hike, boating with friends, kids playing outside all afternoon… and then suddenly you notice it. Your skin is hot. Tight. Red. Tender. Yep. Sunburn. Most of us have had at least one “I should have worn more sunscreen” moment. But sunburn is more than just uncomfortable—it’s actually a radiation burn to your skin, and severe burns can lead to dehydration, heat illness, infection, and long-term skin damage. As someone who teaches first aid every day, I can tell you...