How to Establish a First Aid Station for Special Events: A Guide for Churches and Nonprofit Event Organizers
When planning a special event, the last thing you want to consider is what could go wrong. But accidents happen, and it’s always best to be prepared.
Every church and nonprofit event organizer should know how to establish a first aid station and what products should be included.
This guide will show you how to set up a first aid station for your next event and workplace. We’ll cover everything from deciding what supplies you need to training volunteers to staff the station.
By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to ensure your event is safe and fun for everyone involved.
What is a First Aid Station?
A First Aid Station is where trained medical professionals provide first aid services to those requiring them.
First Aid Stations are usually set up at events, festivals, and other locations where there is likely to be an increased number of people. These stations provide essential medical assistance in the event of an injury or other medical emergency.
The staff at these stations should be well-trained in providing primary life support care such as CPR, wound care, and bandaging techniques.
As churches and nonprofit organizations have access to people of all backgrounds, consider staffing the first aid station with a medical doctor, nurse, or EMT.
What are the Benefits of having a First Aid Station for Special Event Gatherings?
1. Provide immediate event medical services and assistance to attendees
Having a first aid station at special events helps provide immediate medical assistance to attendees. A designated location where people can report and seek treatment for incidents ensures that event organizers are prepared for potential medical aid.
If possible, a basic first aid kit and an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can help keep guests in good health. Additionally, having trained staff on hand to provide care beyond their scope ensures that attendees receive the proper level of care they need in case of an incident.
2. Enable event organizers to meet their safety and security obligations
Having a first aid station at special events helps event organizers meet their safety and security obligations by providing medical care for minor injuries and helping to prevent more serious incidents from occurring. Having a designated location where people can report and seek treatment for incidents is essential, as it allows event staff to identify potential safety issues before they become serious problems.
Additionally, having the right equipment, such as Band-Aids, burn spray, dressing, and potentially other medical supplies, depending on the size of the event, can help ensure guests are taken care of in case of an emergency or minor injury. Having an established communications plan that outlines who is responsible for what during an incident helps ensure everyone knows their role to respond quickly with appropriate actions.
3. Allow for a more efficient response to medical emergencies
Having a first aid station at a special event provides the necessary supplies and professional staffing levels needed to respond to medical emergencies. It also allows event organizers to plan how many first aid stations are required based on the location and anticipated size of their event.
By having access to medical supplies and trained professionals, attendees can receive life-saving care in case of an emergency while waiting for an ambulance response or during transport if necessary. Furthermore, having designated first aid stations around an event site helps facilitate faster responses as responders will know where they can find help if needed.
4. Increase safety and security for attendees
Having a First Aid station at a special event increases safety and security for attendees by providing them with basic first aid and medical care in case of an incident. By providing medical care, event planners can help reduce the risk of injuries or other health issues occurring during their event.
5. Provide a better experience for attendees
Having a first aid station at special events improves the experience for attendees by providing them with the necessary medical care in case of an emergency or mishap. Having trained professionals to provide urgent assistance ensures that guests are kept safe and sound while also providing peace of mind to event planners.
6. Provide a sense of security for attendees
Having a first aid station at a special event helps provide a sense of security for attendees by providing them with access to medical care in case of an emergency. Having a designated location where people can report incidents and seek treatment helps planners identify potential hazards before they become serious problems.
7. Provide a learning opportunity for volunteers
Having a first aid station at a special event provides a learning opportunity for volunteers because it allows them to gain hands-on experience with the equipment and procedures used in an emergency. By providing this opportunity, volunteers can become more familiar with using first aid equipment and responding effectively in a crisis.
8. Provide a learning opportunity for the public
Having a first aid station at special events provides a learning opportunity for the public as it gives them a chance to learn more about emergency medical services, such as how to use the equipment and what types of injuries they can treat. This helps reduce fear and anxiety toward EMS professionals, as people can see firsthand how beneficial having an ambulance on site can be.
9. Allow for better communication and collaboration between first aid providers and event organizers
Having a first aid station at special events helps improve communication and collaboration between first aid providers and event organizers by providing emergency medical care, offering training on medical equipment, and providing guidance on when to hire additional help.
Event organizers can ensure guests receive the best care possible in case of an emergency or minor mishap by having a first aid station on site. It also helps build trust between organizers and guests, showing that they take safety seriously.
10. Save money on emergency medical services
Having a first aid station at a special event provides immediate medical care in an emergency. This can help save money on emergency medical services, reducing the need for ambulance transport and the cost of paramedics or EMTs on site.
By having access to first aid equipment and trained staff, attendees can treat minor injuries themselves or assist until help arrives. This can reduce the number of unnecessary ambulance calls, reducing costs associated with EMS services.
What are the Steps to Set Up a First Aid Station for Special Events?
Step 1: Identify the need for a first aid station
Setting up a first aid station for special events is essential to ensure rapid response and patient care in case of any potential scenario. Dedicated staff, ambulances, and first aid stations help reduce any potential risks associated with the event and ensure attendees’ safety.
Additionally, having a well-prepared team with experience in responding to medical situations can make the difference between life and death in some instances. Therefore it is crucial to have proper equipment and resources before hosting a special event so that responders can provide timely care if needed.
Step 2: Find a location
A first aid station for special events should be centrally located for quick access to emergency care. Establishing an event map can help identify critical areas for a small or large first aid station.
If someone cuts their finger and needs a bandaid to stop the bleeding, they will need immediate access.
Step 3: Create a First Aid Station Manual
- Identify the type and size of the event you are planning.
- Determine if a First Aid Station is required based on your event size and type.
- If required, create a plan for one or more staffed Basic Life Support (BLS) First Aid Stations with 9-1-1 access, knowledge of Take 10 CPR, an AED if applicable and adequate supplies for the size and nature of your event according to any relevant regulatory requirements.
- Mark the location(s) of the first aid stations clearly on any event maps provided to attendees or visitors so they know where they can find help in case of an emergency.
- Ensure that staff members providing medical staffing have adequate training in first aid/CPR/etc., as necessary for their position.
Step 4: Secure an event permit if required
Some events may require a permit to be issued and for the event organizer to provide specific services such as a first aid station, EMTs, or onsite security. Identify the event organizer and contact your local city or county to obtain a special event permit.
The city will review the event and identify the needed level of protection that will need to be in place.
Step 5: Make sure your equipment is ready
Before the event starts, it is essential to ensure you have all of your needed emergency equipment on hand.
- Determine what medical and specialty equipment is needed for the event.
- Contact a medical equipment rental company to arrange your supplies, such as first aid kits, oxygen tanks, stretchers, sterile gauze, absorbent, and blankets.
- If you are planning on having a first aid station or particular event trailer/first aid station at your event, ensure it is adequately equipped with all necessary supplies before its use to ensure the safety of attendees during the event’s duration.
- Ensure that all responders have been trained to use any specialized equipment they may be provided during the event.
Step 6: Plan your communication strategy
Property communication is essential to the success of any special event, no matter how small. Here are five steps to take when planning your special event:
- Research the type of event you will provide first aid services for and determine the most effective communication type for your audience.
- Identify critical stakeholders, including event organizers, medical professionals, volunteers, and staff members who need information about the first aid station’s location and services offered.
- Develop a plan to communicate this information promptly before the event begins so everyone knows their responsibilities during the special event.
- Create a communication strategy that includes traditional methods (e.g., flyers) and modern channels (e.g., social media).
- Monitor feedback from all communication channels throughout the event period to ensure that any questions or concerns are addressed promptly by staff members at the first aid station or other appropriate individuals from your organization.
Step 7: Stay connected with your community
Staying connected with your community can help you set up a first aid station for special events. By knowing the neighborhood and its residents, you can identify potential locations for the station and reach out to key stakeholders to gain their support.
By staying connected with your community, you can build relationships that will help ensure success when setting up a first aid station. You’ll be able to gather information about local zoning laws and regulations and locate resources such as medical supplies or volunteers willing to donate their time.
Additionally, having the support of key stakeholders will make it easier to obtain permits if necessary and reduce liability concerns if an incident occurs during the event’s setup or operation phase.
What Emergency Supplies Should be Kept in a First Aid Kit?
When establishing emergency supplies for a church event, a few essential items should be included in your first aid kit. These items include the following:
- Bandages
- Gauze
- Medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes
- Band-Aids
- Pain relievers
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Cotton swabs
- Tongue depressors
- Emergency blankets
- Gloves
- Rescue blankets
- CPR masks
- Whistles
- Flashlights
- Plastic bags
- Emergency food and water
- Infant and child supplies
- Emergency medical kits
Frequently Asked Questions
How should the first aid station be set up?
The first aid station should be set up in an easily accessible and visible location near the main entrance of a building, church, or school. It should be equipped with the necessary supplies to provide basic medical assistance, such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, splints, and other items for minor injuries.
The station should also have clear signage to be visible and easy to find. Additionally, there should be a designated area with comfortable chairs for people to wait until medical help arrives.
Finally, it is essential to have a trained person who can provide first aid in an emergency. This person should be familiar with the equipment and supplies available at the station and able to perform basic tasks such as CPR if needed.
How can I ensure the safety and security of guests at my special event?
- Be prepared: Stock a basic first aid kit and make sure to have an AED (automated external defibrillator) on hand if possible.
- Know when to hire help: When providing care beyond your scope is necessary, seek out professionals such as law enforcement, EMTs, or paramedics.
- Communicate: Establish an emergency response plan with clear communication protocols, such as who determines an emergency and who initiates calls for help from EMTs or police officers. Also, collect incident data so that you can evaluate potential hazards associated with your event to mitigate them beforehand if possible.
What is the cost of establishing a first aid station?
The cost of establishing first aid facilities depends on the size and type of event and the required services. For example, providing first aid services for an outdoor event with 100 attendees would cost approximately $1,000-$2,000, depending on the number of staff needed. Additionally, ambulance crew transport fees can range from $85-$150 per hour, depending on where the event is located and how long they are needed.
What types of medical services can be provided at a first aid station?
The types of medical services that can be provided at a first-aid center include but are not limited to:
- Basic Life Support (BLS) such as CPR
- Administration of medication
- Treatments for minor injuries and illnesses
- Wound care
- Bandaging techniques
- Splinting techniques and other basic life support skills
How can I ensure I have the proper church insurance coverage for my special event?
When planning a special event at your church, it is crucial to ensure that you have the proper church insurance coverage. The first step is to contact our church insurance agency which is knowledgeable about church insurance policies.
We can provide specific details of what type of coverage you need and what options are available to you. Also, ask our church insurance agents about any additional coverage necessary for the event, such as liability protection or church property insurance.
Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions of your policy before signing off on it, and it covers all anticipated risks associated with your event. By taking these steps, you can rest assured that you have the proper coverage for your special event at church.
What kinds of safety measures should be taken to prepare for an emergency at a special event?
To prepare for an emergency at a special event, event planners should take the following safety measures:
- Be prepared by supplying a basic first-aid kit and locating a designated area where people can report and seek treatment for incidents.
- Know when to hire help from professionals, such as EMTs or paramedics, depending on the size of the event and the potential danger associated with activities or attendees.
- Establish an established communications plan that includes who determines an emergency, who initiates calls to EMTs and police departments, who remains in contact during incidents, and who collects incident data post-event end.
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