How to Train to Become an Instructor for First Aid & CPR
First aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are invaluable to treating injury or saving lives during an emergency. If you've already received training in these skills, you can multiply your effectiveness by teaching others. Though many companies and organizations offer instructor training, your best option is the Red Cross.
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Instructions
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Contact your nearest Red Cross training chapter for the latest class schedule, prices and requirements.
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Begin with "Fundamentals of Instructor Training (FIT)," which is a prerequisite for all Red Cross instructor courses. Passing this four-hour course gives you a FIT certificate good for 12 months or as long as you maintain your instructor rating.
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Continue with the seven-hour course titled "Adult, Child, Infant CPR and First Aid," which covers the basics of dealing with injuries, illness and heart emergencies. After successful completion of the course, you receive a "First Aid" certificate valid for three years and an "Adult, Child, Infant CPR" certificate good for one year.
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Increase your training knowledge by taking additional health and safety classes, which can qualify you to teach other courses. The course offerings might vary at different locations.
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Pass a skills and written test on first aid and CPR. You then must complete the 20-hour "First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor" course, where you learn how to teach adult, child and infant CPR and first aid. You must be at least 16 years old at the end of the course.
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Practice your techniques by teaching courses at your local Red Cross chapter. Fill out a volunteer application stating you want to teach health and safety classes. You'll need to pass a background check.
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