You’ve been dispatched - to our blog! A place where we share Emergency Medical Services advice, information, upcoming research, gear, courses, and opinions. Based in Calgary Alberta, our Advanced First Aid, Intermediate First Aid, and Basic First Aid courses are taught by real EMS professionals. We teach Red Cross programs, Heart and Stroke, ITLS, NRP and more. We educate to inspire the confidence needed to successfully deal with emergencies. We create professionals. We Create Professionals.
We believe in recognizing leadership and advancing the paramedic profession. We contribute to initiatives that are devoted to first aid education, emergency medical research and emergency education.
Festivals are all about music, friends, and unforgettable moments — but fun can turn dangerous fast if you’re not prepared. From heat exhaustion and crowd surges to substance use and stranger risks, knowing the basics of festival first aid and safety can make the difference between a great time and a trip to the medical tent. Stay safe, look out for your friends, and keep the good vibes going all weekend long.
Read MoreTalking to kids about stranger danger is never easy, but it’s necessary in today’s world. From identifying unsafe situations to knowing the rule of “never go anywhere without permission,” these conversations can empower children to stay safe and know when to act.
Read MoreHunting is a beloved Canadian tradition, but heading into the bush without first aid training puts you and your group at risk. Learn the importance of being prepared with skills like bleeding control, wound care, and shock management. Whether you hunt with family, friends, or solo—make sure you're ready to protect what matters most.
Read MoreWhen the sun is shining, water becomes a natural playground for kids — pools, lakes, rivers, and oceans offer endless summer fun. But for parents, water is also one of the most dangerous environments your child will be exposed to. Drowning is fast, silent, and all too common — especially in Canada, where thousands of natural bodies of water lie just beyond backyard fences and cottage docks.
Drowning is the second leading cause of preventable death for children under age 10 in Canada.
According to the Lifesaving Society of Canada, nearly 500 Canadians die from drowning every year, and almost one-third are under the age of 19.
Children aged 1 to 4 are at the highest risk, most often drowning in pools, while older children are more at risk in open water like lakes and rivers.
88% of child drownings happen when a parent or caregiver is supervising — but distracted.
These tragedies are preventable with layers of protection: supervision, swimming skills, proper safety gear, and informed adults.
Formal swimming lessons reduce drowning risk by up to 88% for children ages 1–4, according to the Canadian Pediatric Society. The Red Cross and Lifesaving Society both emphasize the value of age-appropriate water safety education from toddlerhood.
Look for programs that teach:
Entering and exiting water safely
Floating, treading water, and self-rescue
Using lifejackets and understanding currents
Knowing when to call for help
Even for strong swimmers, refreshing skills before each summer season helps reinforce safety habits.
Drowning happens in as little as 20 seconds. It is quiet — no splashing, no screaming. A child can slip under the water while you're answering a text.
You're within arm's reach for young or weak swimmers
You're not distracted by your phone, books, or alcohol
You rotate with other adults every 15–30 minutes if needed
You avoid relying on older children to supervise younger siblings
Tip: Use a “Water Watcher” card or lanyard to clearly identify the supervising adult at any given time.
Each setting has unique dangers, especially in Alberta where cold lakes and rivers are common.
Install fences with self-latching gates
Use pool alarms or covers when not in use
Never rely on inflatable toys or floaties for safety
Use properly fitting lifejackets
Be aware of drop-offs, weeds, and sudden cold
Water visibility is often poor — stay close and alert
Only swim in lifeguard-supervised zones
Learn to identify rip currents and how to escape (swim parallel to shore)
Watch for tides, jellyfish, and sharp shells
Always wear Transport Canada-approved lifejackets when boating, paddling, or playing near open water.
A 2022 study by ALIVE Solutions tested how well different swimsuit colours showed up underwater — especially in murky or sun-glared conditions. Results showed that bright neon colours like orange, pink, and lime green were most visible. Earth tones, blue, and even white blended into water and became invisible within just a few feet.
Best for visibility:
Neon orange
Hot pink
Lime green
Bright yellow
Avoid:
Blue, grey, white, or pastels (especially in natural water)
In emergencies, seconds matter. CPR, rescue breathing, and basic first aid skills can make the difference between life and death while you wait for EMS.
We recommend:
CPR-C or Emergency First Aid with CPR
Child & Infant CPR refresher courses for babysitters, older siblings, and grandparents
Courses offered by trusted organizations like the Canadian Red Cross or Lifesaving Society
At Delta Emergency Support Training in Calgary, we offer family-friendly and babysitter-focused Red Cross courses year-round.
Make water safety part of your regular parenting conversations:
Always ask permission before going near water
Never swim alone — even with a lifejacket
Get out when cold or tired
If in trouble: call for help, float, and don’t panic
Teach older children how to help safely without jumping in themselves
Water should be fun — but it should also be respected.
Most childhood drownings are not freak accidents — they are preventable. Supervision, the right gear, swimming skills, and training create the strongest safety net.
This summer, be proactive — and make sure water memories are joyful ones.
Delta Emergency Support Training offers:
Babysitter Certification (Red Cross)
Emergency First Aid & CPR for Families
Private bookings for friend groups or community groups
All classes are taught by real paramedics and emergency responders who know what works in real life.
Spots fill fast during summer — contact us today to learn more!
Pulmonary embolisms are among the most serious complications post-surgery—and often go unnoticed until it’s too late. For Emergency Medical Responders, especially those working in Alberta’s high-risk environments, knowing the subtle signs and acting fast can make all the difference. This blog breaks down what to look for, how to respond, and why early recognition matters.
Read MoreEmergency calls often involve diverse cultures and languages. First responders face unique challenges in communication and cultural understanding that can impact patient care. This guide offers essential strategies to navigate language barriers respectfully, recognize cultural differences, and deliver compassionate, effective emergency care. Improve your skills and confidence with our practical tips.
Read MoreDog bites demand swift, skilled care from first responders. Our Red Cross Advanced First Aid & EMR course trains firefighters and EMS personnel in critical skills—from scene safety to wound management and emotional support. Learn to confidently handle dog bite emergencies and more with hands-on training that prepares you for real-world situations.
Read MoreBody Substance Isolation (BSI) is more than just wearing gloves—it's a life-saving habit for every first responder. From bloodborne pathogens to airborne illnesses, BSI protects you from invisible threats on every call. At Delta Emergency Support Training, we emphasize BSI in every scenario because your safety comes first. Learn what PPE to wear, how to use it, and why BSI is essential in every emergency situation.
Read MoreVenomous snake bites are rare in Canada—but when they happen, knowing how to respond is crucial. From identifying rattlesnakes to administering Red Cross-approved first aid, this guide covers everything you need to stay safe outdoors.
Read MoreFirst aid isn’t just CPR and bandages. Learn why overlooked skills like scene assessment, gaining consent, and offering emotional support are often the most important actions in an emergency—and how they can save lives before you even touch a patient.
Read MoreCanada’s 2025 wildfire season has brought hazardous air—and with it, serious health risks. This guide equips families and caregivers with practical advice: from setting up a clean room and using N95 masks to monitoring air quality and recognizing smoke-induced illness.
Read MoreSummer can be wonderful—but it also comes with hidden dangers for infants. From sunburn to overheating, learn how to keep your baby safe with Red Cross-aligned tips from Delta Emergency Support Training.
Read MoreHeading into the backcountry this summer? Don’t go unprepared. This Red Cross-informed guide breaks down the essential first aid items every outdoor enthusiast should pack — from splints and bandages to water purification. Whether you're hiking alone, with friends, or just want to be ready to help, this blog equips you with smart packing tips and survival insight, backed by expert instruction from paramedics and firefighters.
Read MoreDiscover how first responders assess scenes in seconds using real tools like HEMPPA, PWCATS, and SCORTS. We teach it in our EMR course — with real-world scenarios to make it stick.
Read MoreSpinal injuries can have devastating consequences, from paralysis to lifelong medical complications. Fortunately, many of these injuries are preventable. In this blog, we explore the top causes of spinal injuries, shocking statistics, and expert-approved safety measures to help you stay protected. Whether it’s safe driving, fall prevention, or sports safety, taking proactive steps can make all the difference. Plus, learn how Delta Emergency Support Training, a Red Cross Training Partner, provides essential first aid training to equip you with life-saving skills.
Read MoreBeing a first responder is a calling to serve your community during times of crisis. It's about earning the trust of the people you help, offering support during their worst days, and making life-saving decisions under pressure. In this blog, we explore the profound responsibility and emotional commitment that comes with being a first responder, and how these professionals are the heart of their communities.
Read MoreDelirium is an acute medical condition that often affects geriatric patients, causing confusion, disorganized thinking, and altered levels of awareness. As an EMR or firefighter, it's crucial to identify delirium early and manage it effectively. This guide explains how to assess, treat, and respond to elderly patients showing signs of delirium, ensuring optimal care in critical situations.
Read MoreThe Wilderness First Responder Course is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals who venture into remote areas. Whether you're hiking, camping, or leading outdoor adventures, this course provides the essential skills to respond to medical emergencies in the wilderness. Learn to assess, treat, and manage injuries, illnesses, and life-threatening situations when help is far away. Equip yourself with the knowledge to handle emergencies confidently and safely.
Read MoreIn the critical moments following an emergency, the way first responders communicate with patients can make all the difference. Good communication not only helps calm patients and build trust but also ensures more effective care. In this article, we’ll explore why patient communication matters, what to say to reassure and educate patients, and what to avoid in order to prevent escalating anxiety or confusion. By using clear, empathetic communication, first responders can enhance patient outcomes and foster a deeper sense of security.
Read MoreMeningitis is a serious infection that can escalate rapidly. As a medical first responder, understanding the types and symptoms of meningitis is essential for effective care. At Delta Emergency, we provide advanced first aid training across Canada, particularly in Edmonton and Calgary, to equip fire fighters and emergency responders with life-saving knowledge.
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