How to Save a Life

Wouldn't it be nice if you could help save someone's life? It may seem like an opportunity that might not happen to you... being in the right place at the right time, etc., but there are ways you can save the lives of people right now.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Donate Blood. It may sound scary, but it's just a needle prick or two. You've probably hurt yourself worse by stubbing your toe or shutting the door on your finger. You need to be in good health and meet certain requirements in order to donate blood. If you have never donated blood before, I suggest you try it, and walk away knowing that you did something good to help save someone's life. Make an appointment at a local blood donation center to save you some waiting time once you arrive.
   
   Please read the details about donating blood in the following links *before* you go to donate blood so you will be familiar with the process and understand the risks.
   
   http://www.redcross.org/donate/give/
   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blood_donation
2. Become an Organ and Tissue Donor. Register with your state to become an organ and tissue donor. Discuss this with your family, and designate your decision on your drivers license.
   Each organ and tissue donor can help save the lives of many people. If you want to do something in your lifetime that really makes a difference, this could be it.
   
   Please read all the details carefully before making your decision.
   http://www.organdonor.gov/
3. Become CPR/AED Certified (AGAIN)
   If it's been more than a year since your last CPR Certification, it is a good idea to get re-certified. WHY? Because the instructions for giving CPR have significantly changed! I took a CPR class 6 years ago, and one last month. I was so surprised to find out how much has changed. Take the time to learn the current CPR techniques because you may need to use it sometime. Plus, you'll learn how to use AED's (Automated External Defibrillator).
   
   
   American Red Cross CPR Classes
   http://www.redcross.org/services/hss/courses/adultcpraed.html
   
   American Heart Association
   http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3011764
4. There are other ways to help save lives, but I focused on these three because they are the easiest ones to do.

Tips & Warnings

• Please let me know if you know about any other ways for people to help save a life.
• Keep in mind that you can help save the lives of children as well as adults by doing these three things.
• Make sure you learn more about this before making any decisions. Not all options are good for all people.