A first in France: the Red Cross’s ‘life-saving box’

In the Hérault, the French Red Cross is breaking new ground by launching an initiative that is unique in France: a ‘Box’ gift set that saves lives. The aim is to reach out to those who haven’t yet imagined that they might one day have to save a loved one. It is THE practical gift for the festive season: a box set enabling people to train at any French Red Cross centre, whenever they wish. For several years now, the training teams at the Hérault Red Cross have been making the same observation: whilst the role of a first-aider – the ‘first link in the rescue chain’ – is essential in an emergency, too few people are taking the initiative to train in first aid. Training accessible to all To reach as many people as possible, the Hérault regional delegation is banking on a unique concept: a ‘Box’ that saves lives. Whilst signing up for first-aid training usually involves a personal effort, dependent on the training schedules of the relevant organisations, the Hérault scheme makes PSC1 training accessible to everyone: “You simply buy the kit from one of the shops partnering with the scheme or directly from our website. The lucky recipient can then enrol wherever they like in the Hérault, throughout the year, to take an 8-hour course in life-saving techniques,” explains Clément Marragou, president of the Hérault branch of the French Red Cross. For him, the stakes are high: “During rescue operations carried out in the Aude, our teams were able to gauge how far the public still lags behind in terms of risk awareness. Even today, current events serve as a reminder of the need to train our loved ones in first aid.” An ambitious concept A complex technical system, which will come at a cost to the organisation: the ‘Life-Saving Box’ is on sale for 60 euros, with no additional charges apart from postage. But the concept is ambitious. Over a hundred sessions are scheduled for 2019. “Disasters are often the catalyst that prompts the public to come and learn life-saving techniques. Today, we believe we need to reach out to this audience before an accident happens. And why not under the Christmas tree…”, notes Clément Marragou. Until 15 January, the “Life-Saving Box” is on sale at a special launch price of €39.90 (compared to the usual price of €60), with all proceeds going to the French Red Cross. In short, with Christmas just a few days away, it’s the perfect practical gift. >> Practical information: online orders and partner retailers: http://34.croix-rouge.fr ‘Shop’ section.