Nearly 800 first responders of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine nationwide have completed 48 hours of first aid training provided by the Ukrainian Red Cross
The Ukrainian Red Cross continues to work alongside those who save lives every day — the first responders of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine. As part of this partnership, a specialised 48-hour First on the Spot training programme is being delivered — an intensive first aid course covering the essential skills required in emergency situations.
The training runs over a week and includes more than 60% practical work — simulations, teamwork, and high-pressure scenarios that enable participants to consolidate their skills and develop a clear protocol of actions in crisis situations.
Participants practise in conditions as close to real life as possible, including:
- performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation
- rescuing victims at the scene of traffic accidents
- providing assistance during childbirth
- transporting casualties
- medical triage and rapid assessment of injured persons
- protocols for action in critical situations, and more.
The programme is based on up-to-date international protocols, including recommendations from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and ILCOR (International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation).
“Our task is not just to teach, but to build confidence in first responders and provide them with a clear understanding of the protocols to follow in stressful situations. This enables them to act quickly, coherently, and effectively when it matters most — saving lives,” says Nadiia Yamnenko, first aid master trainer at the Ukrainian Red Cross.
Since the programme began, nearly 800 first responders have been trained. Each participant received a certificate and, most importantly, gained confidence in their own actions when every second counts. By the end of the year, Ukrainian Red Cross instructors aim to have trained 3,500 emergency responders nationwide through this 48-hour first aid programme.
This is more than just training — it’s a vital contribution to strengthening the entire emergency response system. Because in wartime, first aid is not only about knowledge but about saving lives every single day.
It is worth noting that the Ukrainian Red Cross is a leader in first aid training in Ukraine. Since the full-scale invasion began, the organisation has trained more than 365,000 people, including children, adults, educators, critical infrastructure workers, police officers, and first responders.
