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Accidents can happen anywhere — even in the safest workplaces. Whether you work in an office in Omaha, a warehouse, or out in the field, having employees trained in basic first aid can make all the difference in an emergency. Immediate, informed action can save lives, reduce the severity of injuries, and foster a culture of safety and care within your organization.

Here are 10 essential first aid skills every employee should know:

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1. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

CPR is one of the most important lifesaving skills anyone can learn. It helps keep blood and oxygen circulating when someone’s heart has stopped. Heartland Safety and Wellness offer CPR certification courses that teach proper hand placement, compression depth, and rescue breathing techniques.

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2. How to Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

AEDs are commonly found in workplaces, schools, and public buildings throughout Omaha. Employees should know where the nearest AED is located and how to use it to deliver a life-saving shock to someone experiencing cardiac arrest.

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3. Choking Response

A quick response to choking can prevent tragedy. Learning how to perform abdominal thrusts and back blows can dislodge an object and save someone’s life — especially in office break rooms or cafeterias.

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4. Treating Burns

From hot coffee spills to industrial accidents, burns are among the most common workplace injuries. Employees should know how to cool a burn with running water, cover it with a sterile dressing, and avoid applying creams or oils.

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5. Bleeding Control

Knowing how to apply direct pressure, elevate the injured area, and use a tourniquet (if trained) can help stop severe bleeding until professional medical help arrives.

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6. Recognizing and Treating Shock

Shock can occur after a severe injury or emotional trauma. Signs include pale skin, rapid breathing, and confusion. The right response — keeping the person warm, calm, and lying down — can stabilize them while waiting for emergency responders.

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7. Handling Sprains and Fractures

Employees should understand the R.I.C.E. method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Knowing how to immobilize a suspected fracture or sprain can prevent further injury.

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8. Dealing with Allergic Reactions

Anaphylaxis can occur suddenly and without warning. Every workplace should know how to identify symptoms like swelling, difficulty breathing, and hives — and how to use an epinephrine auto-injector if one is available.

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9. Recognizing Heart Attack and Stroke Symptoms

Quick recognition saves lives. Employees should learn the FAST acronym for stroke (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911) and know the common signs of a heart attack such as chest pain, sweating, or nausea.

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10. Basic Wound Care

Proper cleaning, dressing, and bandaging of cuts or scrapes can prevent infection and speed up healing. Having a well-stocked first aid kit accessible in your Omaha workplace ensures employees can respond promptly to minor injuries.

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Building a Safer Workplace in Omaha

Providing first aid training in Omaha isn’t just a regulatory requirement — it’s an investment in your team’s well-being. Contact us today!  We can help ensure that every employee feels confident and prepared to handle emergencies.

When employees know how to respond quickly and effectively, they don’t just save lives — they build a stronger, more caring workplace culture.

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Ready to make your Omaha workplace safer?
Consider scheduling a first aid and CPR training session for your team today. It’s one of the best steps you can take toward creating a healthier, more resilient workforce.

When most people think of CPR, they picture a lifeguard at Lake Zorinsky or a first responder at the scene of a car accident—not someone in business casual slumped over a desk on the 10th floor of an office building in downtown Omaha.

But here’s the truth: medical emergencies, including sudden cardiac arrest, can happen anywhere—including the office. And they don’t care whether you’re wearing a uniform, a suit, or yoga pants.

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The Hidden Health Risks of a Desk Job

Omaha is home to thriving industries—finance, insurance, logistics, tech startups—all of which keep thousands of professionals parked in front of screens for 8 to 10 hours a day. And while these jobs may not involve heavy machinery or construction hazards, they’re not without risk.

Sedentary lifestyles, chronic stress, poor posture, and limited physical activity are all common among office workers. Unfortunately, these factors also contribute to heart disease and other conditions that can trigger sudden cardiac arrest—even in younger adults.

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Why Workplace CPR Training in Omaha Matters

According to the American Heart Association, nearly 90% of people who suffer cardiac arrest outside a hospital do not survive. But here’s the good news: immediate CPR can double—or even triple—their chance of survival.

Here’s the catch: “immediate” means within minutes, not when EMTs arrive. In Omaha, EMS response times average 7–8 minutes. But brain damage can begin in just 4 minutes without oxygen. That crucial window? It’s up to coworkers to act.

That’s why CPR and AED training in Omaha offices is more than a nice-to-have—it’s a lifesaving necessity.

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How Omaha Offices Can Prepare Right Now

Omaha is a community that shows up for each other—whether it’s flood relief, food drives, or Husker tailgates. It’s time we do the same for workplace safety.

Here’s how your office can get started:

1. Get CPR Certified

Partner with local providers like Heartland Safety and Wellness, to host on-site CPR and AED training. Empower your employees to act quickly and confidently in an emergency.

2. Install and Maintain AEDs

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are user-friendly, voice-guided devices that can restart a heart. Every office—especially those in high-rise buildings or with large teams—should have at least one. Make sure it’s clearly marked, easily accessible, and regularly inspected.

3. Run Emergency Drills

Just like fire drills, CPR and cardiac emergency drills help employees know their roles when seconds count. Who calls 911? Who starts compressions? Who retrieves the AED?

4. Promote a Heart-Healthy Culture

Encourage stretch breaks, walking meetings, standing desks, and wellness incentives. A healthier workforce isn’t just happier—it’s better protected against sudden health crises.

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Real People, Real Emergencies—Even at a Desk

The reality is that someone in your building may be at high risk—and not even know it. It could be a colleague with a family history of heart disease. A client with high blood pressure. Or you.

This isn’t alarmist. It’s reality. From Aksarben to West Dodge, from Old Market loft offices to home offices in Dundee, Omaha workers are just as vulnerable to cardiac events as anyone else. And they deserve the same level of emergency readiness.

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Let’s Make Omaha’s Offices CPR-Ready

Whether you’re in HR, facilities, or leadership, investing in CPR and AED training in your workplace could mean the difference between life and death.

Let’s build a culture of preparedness across Omaha—because every heartbeat matters, even at a desk.

In the heart of the Midwest, where neighbors help neighbors and community ties run deep, staying prepared for emergencies is more than just a personal responsibility — it’s part of what makes Omaha strong. Whether you’re tailgating at a Huskers game, enjoying a family picnic at Zorinsky Lake, or just grabbing lunch at the Old Market, the unexpected can happen. That’s where CPR training — and more importantly, regular re-certification — comes into play.

Why CPR Still Matters

While emergency services in Omaha are top-notch, even the fastest response times can’t always beat the clock when someone’s heart stops. Immediate CPR can double or even triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival. With over 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happening each year in the U.S., having more Omaha residents trained — and current — in CPR can literally mean the difference between life and death.

The Re-Certification Gap

Many people complete a CPR course once and assume they’re set for life. But like many skills, CPR is perishable. Studies show that skills begin to decline as early as 3 to 6 months after training. If your last class was during the College World Series of 2022, it’s time to re-up.

National certifying bodies require re-certification every two years, and there’s a good reason for that. Not only do protocols evolve with new medical research, but staying fresh also keeps your skills sharp and your confidence high in a real emergency.

Scenarios Where CPR Can Save Lives

Let’s bring it home. Think about:

• Heartland of America Park: You’re enjoying a walk when someone collapses on the path.
• Westroads Mall: A shopper suffers a cardiac arrest near the food court.
• Henry Doorly Zoo: A child chokes near the aquarium and stops breathing.

In every one of these scenarios, a bystander with up-to-date CPR training could be the hero. The more certified individuals Omaha has, the more prepared we are as a community.

What’s New in CPR Since You Last Certified?

If it’s been a while since your last class, here are just a few things you might’ve missed:

• Updated compression-to-breath ratios
• Hands-only CPR recommendations
• Emphasis on high-quality, uninterrupted chest compressions
• New AED technology and usage guidelines

Re-certification classes are also more accessible than ever — with hybrid online/in-person options, shorter refresher courses, and even employer-sponsored sessions across Omaha.

Be sure to reach out to us today to schedule a CPR class for your organization today!

In any city, workplace safety is a critical concern — and Omaha is no exception. From downtown office towers to bustling warehouse districts, emergencies can strike unexpectedly. Whether you’re an employee, manager, or business owner, being prepared can make all the difference. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common workplace emergencies in Omaha and how you can respond effectively.

1. Severe Weather (Tornadoes and Winter Storms)

Why it’s relevant in Omaha:
Omaha is located in Tornado Alley and regularly faces severe thunderstorms, hail, and even blizzards during winter. Tornadoes are a real threat from spring through early summer, and snowstorms can cripple operations in colder months.

How to Respond:

• Have a weather emergency plan in place. Know the location of your storm shelter or designated safe areas within the building.
• Monitor local alerts from the National Weather Service or apps like CodeRED (used by Douglas County).
• Practice drills regularly so employees know how to act fast when sirens go off.
• Keep an emergency kit stocked with essentials like flashlights, radios, and first aid supplies.

2. Medical Emergencies

Why it’s relevant in Omaha:
With a diverse and aging workforce, medical incidents such as heart attacks, strokes, or allergic reactions can happen at any job site — from corporate offices near Aksarben Village to industrial zones in South Omaha.

How to Respond:

• Train employees in basic first aid and CPR. Organizations like the Red Cross offer frequent training sessions in Omaha.
• Keep AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) accessible and ensure staff know how to use them.
• Have a clear incident response protocol — including how to call 911, who will guide emergency personnel, and how to report the event internally.

3. Fires and Gas Leaks

Why it’s relevant in Omaha:
Older buildings in Midtown and warehouse facilities in North Omaha may have outdated electrical or gas systems. Fire hazards can stem from overloaded outlets, industrial equipment, or even kitchen appliances.

How to Respond:

• Install and maintain fire alarms and extinguishers. Test them regularly.
• Conduct fire drills twice a year — the Omaha Fire Department can help review your safety plans.
• Train staff to shut off gas lines and evacuate calmly and quickly.
• Ensure clear access to emergency exits at all times.

4. Active Shooter or Workplace Violence

Why it’s relevant in Omaha:
Unfortunately, workplace violence is a rising concern nationwide. Schools, offices, and even medical centers in Omaha have recognized the need for stronger prevention and response plans.

How to Respond:

• Implement a zero-tolerance policy for threats or violence.
• Conduct active shooter training (e.g., “Run. Hide. Fight.”) and invite local law enforcement to lead workshops.
• Establish clear reporting channels for suspicious behavior.
• Consider offering mental health resources to employees through local providers or EAPs.

5. Chemical Spills or Hazardous Materials

Why it’s relevant in Omaha:
With a strong manufacturing and agricultural sector, many Omaha-area businesses deal with hazardous materials — from cleaning agents to industrial chemicals.

How to Respond:

• Use Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and ensure all employees know where to find them.
• Train staff on spill response procedures and proper PPE (personal protective equipment).
• Partner with local organizations like the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) for training and compliance updates.

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Final Thoughts

Emergencies can happen anywhere, but in Omaha, being prepared is part of being a responsible member of the community. Whether you’re working in a skyscraper in downtown or on the production floor in Sarpy County, having an emergency response plan in place could save lives.

Take time today to review your organization’s procedures — and make sure every employee feels empowered, educated, and ready to respond. Be sure to contact us today when you are ready to get certified in first aid and CPR!

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid are critical life-saving skills that every workplace should prioritize. Despite the increasing importance of workplace safety, there are still numerous myths and misconceptions about what CPR and First Aid really entail. These myths can deter people from getting trained or, worse, cause them to mismanage a critical situation when help is needed the most.

Let’s dive into some of the most common myths surrounding CPR and First Aid in the workplace—and debunk them once and for all!

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Myth 1: CPR is Too Complicated and Only for Medical Professionals

The Truth:
One of the most common misconceptions about CPR is that it’s too complex for an average person to perform, or that it requires medical expertise. While CPR is certainly a skill that requires some training, it’s not as difficult as many people think. The basics—chest compressions and rescue breaths—are simple to learn, and can make the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.

In fact, many CPR courses now focus on “hands-only” CPR, which only requires chest compressions and doesn’t involve mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. This method has been shown to be just as effective as traditional CPR, and it removes a barrier that might prevent people from helping in a crisis.

Heartland Safety and Wellness offers accredited CPR courses that are straightforward and accessible. With just a few hours of training, you’ll be ready to act in case of an emergency.

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Myth 2: First Aid is Only for Major Emergencies

The Truth:
First Aid is a broad set of skills that cover a wide range of situations, from minor cuts and burns to more severe injuries. Many people think of First Aid as something reserved only for serious accidents, like broken bones or heart attacks, but it’s actually helpful for far more everyday situations.

For instance, if someone at work gets a paper cut, a First Aid-trained individual would know how to properly clean and dress the wound to avoid infection. Similarly, if a colleague experiences a mild allergic reaction or a small burn from a hot cup of coffee, First Aid knowledge can be crucial in managing the situation and preventing it from worsening.

By understanding and implementing basic First Aid, workers can address everyday injuries and provide immediate care before professional help arrives.

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Myth 3: If You Call for Help, You Don’t Need to Do Anything Else

The Truth:
While it’s important to call for medical assistance when needed, waiting for professional help without taking action can be dangerous—especially in the case of severe injuries or heart attacks. Seconds count in emergencies, and CPR or First Aid can make a huge difference while waiting for emergency responders to arrive.

For example, in cases of cardiac arrest, every minute without CPR reduces the chance of survival by about 10%. Immediate chest compressions can double or even triple the chances of survival. Knowing how to provide first response actions while waiting for medical professionals can literally save lives.

It’s also worth noting that certain workplace environments (like construction sites or remote offices) may have delayed access to emergency services. Having employees trained in First Aid and CPR ensures a quicker response in these situations.

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Myth 4: CPR Always Requires Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation

The Truth:
The thought of giving mouth-to-mouth can be intimidating for many people, leading them to hesitate when someone needs CPR. However, recent guidelines have made it clear that “hands-only” CPR can be just as effective, especially in cases where the rescuer is unwilling or unable to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation in most cases.

In fact, when a person suffers a cardiac arrest outside of a hospital, the majority of the oxygen in their body is still present in the bloodstream for the first several minutes. Therefore, chest compressions alone are often enough to help circulate that oxygen and keep the brain and heart alive while waiting for professional help.

If you are comfortable giving rescue breaths and trained to do so, you should, of course, continue to do so. However, the main takeaway here is that the act of performing CPR—whether it’s hands-only or with rescue breaths—can make a life-saving difference.

An exception to this is drowning victims. They require ventilations to increase their chance of survival!

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Myth 5: First Aid and CPR Skills Don’t Need to Be Updated

The Truth:
Medical knowledge is constantly evolving, and so are the techniques for performing CPR and First Aid. Just as your workplace needs to stay current with safety protocols, your First Aid and CPR training needs regular refreshers. CPR certifications should be renewed every two years to ensure that you’re up-to-date on the latest techniques and guidelines.

Workplaces should also regularly assess the need for First Aid equipment and training, as changes in workplace environment or personnel may require different emergency response protocols. Having current training and readily available First Aid kits ensures your team is prepared for any situation.

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Conclusion: Why CPR and First Aid Training Are Crucial for Every Workplace

Workplace safety isn’t just about preventing accidents—it’s about being prepared when the unexpected happens. Understanding the facts about CPR and First Aid can help create a safer environment for everyone. The myths around these life-saving skills often lead to hesitation, confusion, or inaction when it matters most. By debunking these myths and promoting training in your workplace, you empower employees to take action when a crisis strikes.

Remember: CPR and First Aid are for everyone, not just medical professionals. The more people who are trained, the safer the workplace will be for everyone involved. So, don’t let myths keep you from being a part of the solution. Get trained today, and be ready to make a difference when it matters most.

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Have you or your workplace undergone CPR and First Aid training? Contact us today to schedule training!

Accidents happen—even in the safest homes and schools. Teaching children basic first aid skills not only prepares them for emergencies but also empowers them to take action with confidence and calm. While young kids aren’t expected to respond like adults, age-appropriate first aid education can make a real difference.

Here are the essential first aid skills every child should know:

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1. How to Call for Help

The most important first aid skill a child can learn is knowing how and when to get help.

Teach your child to:

• Call 911 (or your country’s emergency number)
• Know their full name, address, and a parent’s phone number
• Speak clearly and calmly to emergency responders

Tip: Role-play emergency call scenarios so your child gets comfortable with the idea.

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2. Treating Small Cuts and Scrapes

Kids are always getting minor injuries. Teach them how to keep small wounds clean and safe.

Steps they should know:

• Wash hands first (or use sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available)
• Rinse the wound with clean water
• Apply antiseptic (if available)
• Use a bandage or plaster to cover the wound

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3. What to Do If Someone is Bleeding

Understanding how to help someone who’s bleeding can be life-saving.

Basic instructions:

• Call for help or alert an adult
• Apply firm pressure using a clean cloth or gauze
• Keep the injured part elevated (if possible)

Important: They should never touch open wounds without protection, so keep gloves in your first aid kit.

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4. Choking First Aid (For Kids 8+)

Older children can learn how to help someone who is choking, and how to prevent choking hazards themselves.

What to do:

• Encourage the person to cough
• If they can’t breathe or talk, call for help immediately
• Tell an adult right away or perform the Heimlich maneuver if trained

Also: Teach them not to give food or small toys to babies or toddlers.

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5. Recognizing Allergic Reactions

Even if your child doesn’t have allergies, they should know the signs in case a friend does.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Swelling of the face or tongue
• Difficulty breathing
• Rash or hives
• Dizziness or fainting

What to do:

• Tell an adult right away
• If they’re trained, they can help someone use an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen)

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6. Burn Safety and First Aid

Burns are common at home—especially in the kitchen.

Steps for minor burns:

• Run cool (not ice-cold) water over the burn for 10–15 minutes
• Never apply butter or toothpaste!
• Cover loosely with a clean bandage
• Tell an adult immediately

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7. Staying Calm in Emergencies

Children often look to adults for cues in emergencies—but sometimes they’ll be the first on the scene.

Ways to teach calmness:

• Practice deep breathing
• Rehearse emergency scenarios
• Use books, videos, or classes to familiarize them with first aid basics

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Make It Fun and Age-Appropriate

Use games, stories, or songs to help reinforce first aid skills. For older children, consider enrolling them in a certified basic first aid course offered by the Red Cross or a local safety organization.

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Final Thoughts

Teaching children basic first aid doesn’t just prepare them for emergencies—it builds confidence, responsibility, and compassion. By giving them these tools early in life, you’re helping to create safer communities and more capable future adults.

Start small, practice often, and lead by example.

For a diabetic emergency, particularly when someone is experiencing either hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), the following steps can be taken:

1. Assess the Situation: Approach the person calmly and assess the situation. Determine if the person is conscious and responsive.
2. Check Blood Sugar Levels: If the person is conscious and able to communicate, ask if they have a glucose meter and if they have checked their blood sugar levels recently. If not, and if you have access to a glucose meter, you may check their blood sugar level if they consent.
3. Recognize Symptoms:
   • Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Symptoms may include confusion, dizziness, sweating, weakness, trembling, irritability, or loss of consciousness.
   • Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar): Symptoms may include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, fruity-smelling breath, nausea, vomiting, or confusion.
4. If Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar):
   • Give them a fast-acting carbohydrate source immediately, such as glucose tablets, fruit juice, honey, or sugar candies.
   • Avoid foods with fat as they can delay the absorption of sugar.
   • Recheck their blood sugar after 15 minutes. If it remains low, repeat the treatment.
5. If Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar):
   • Encourage the person to drink water to stay hydrated.
   • Monitor their condition closely. If they have high blood sugar levels and exhibit symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening complication of diabetes, seek medical help immediately.
6. Stay with the Person: Monitor their condition closely. If they become unconscious, call emergency services immediately.
7. Seek Medical Help if Necessary: If the person’s condition doesn’t improve or if they lose consciousness, call emergency services immediately.
8. Provide Support: Offer reassurance and support to the person throughout the process.

Remember, it’s crucial to act promptly and seek medical assistance if needed, especially if the person is unconscious or if their condition doesn’t improve with initial treatment. If you’re unsure about the appropriate steps to take, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional medical help. For more information, be sure to take a first aid course!