Ottawa Valley First Aid

01/04/2026

✨ The first Self Care Sunday of the year ✨

A lot of people are thinking about resolutions, goals, or intentions right now and if that’s something you want to do, that’s wonderful.

But you don’t have to.

You don’t need to change anything about yourself. You are already enough, just as you are. There’s no need to add extra pressure or expectations, no matter what social media or conversations around you might suggest.

If you want to make a vision board, do it.
If a “becoming” board feels right, go for it.
If setting intentions feels good, lean into that.

And if none of that resonates? That’s okay too.

January can simply be another month, because it is. Or it can be the start of something new.
Either way, the choice is yours. 💛

01/02/2026

Bitter cold + outdoor time = a good reminder to know how to spot and respond to frostbite. ❄️

🥶Frostbites can happen quickly and most often impact toes, feet, fingers, hands, ears, and nose.

👇If you see these signs:

1️⃣If possible, remove anything restricting blood flow (boots, gloves, jewelry). Thaw the area only if you are sure it will not freeze again.

2️⃣ Warm the area gradually using warm (not hot) water or body heat. If the frozen area has thawed, don’t break any blisters. Protect them with loose, dry dressings.

3️⃣ If possible, elevate any thawed extremities above the level of the heart.

4️⃣ Rehydrate the person by providing plenty of fluids and encourage the person to seek medical attention.

For more tips on frostbite & hypothermia, head to our website at https://brnw.ch/21wYwiv

01/01/2026

Happy New Year to our amazing community! 🎉❤️
Wishing you a safe, healthy year ahead.
Stay safe, look out for one another, and we’ll see you in 2026!

12/31/2025

Today marks the final day of 2025, and as we look back on the year, we are incredibly thankful for every single person, business and group who chose to train with us.

We welcomed learners of all ages, from young children to older adults, and had the privilege of visiting communities throughout Renfrew County and even a few just beyond our borders.

Today is a quiet day for us, and tomorrow we rest. But before we do, we want to simply say thank you for trusting Ottawa Valley First Aid. We’re grateful and ready for what’s ahead. 🙏❤️

12/28/2025

12/24/2025

❤️‍🩹The holiday season is not necessarily the “happiest season of them all” for everyone.

If you have been affected by a disaster or emergency, holidays can be a time of both hope and increased stress. Follow our tips for taking care of yourself and others during holidays⬇️

- Ensure you have a safe place to stay and that your basic needs are met.
- Eat nutritiously and stay hydrated, as you’re able to.
- Get enough rest.
- Avoid isolation by reaching out. If you find yourself in new surroundings, reach out to those around you.
- Be patient with yourself and with those close to you.
- Honour your traditions. Be flexible and prepared to engage in new activities to celebrate.
- Take it slow. Small steps are helpful when tasks seem overwhelming.
- Seek out assistance and resources.
- Stay positive and make plans.

Learn more through our Moving Through Recovery: A Guide for Holidays:https://cdn.redcross.ca/prodmedia/crc/documents/How-We-Help/Emergencies-and-Disasters-in-Canada/Moving_through_Recovery_Holiday-EN.pdf

12/16/2025

Our final public course in Petawawa for 2025 is officially complete! ✅

Huge thanks to everyone who joined us this year for public courses in Petawawa - your commitment to being prepared matters.

Today was our final public course for 2025, but don’t worry Petawawa, we’ll see you again in 2026! 👋✨

12/16/2025

✨ Our final high school day of 2025 ✨

Today we wrapped up our last high school class of the year and what an incredible way to finish. 🚌🏫

These students were engaged, thoughtful, and genuinely committed to learning skills that can truly make a difference. They asked great questions, supported one another, and showed just how capable and compassionate this next generation is.

We are so grateful for the opportunity to be welcomed into local schools and to teach young people who are stepping up, paying attention, and preparing themselves to help others in moments that matter most.

Thank you to the students and staff for an amazing couple of days and for helping us end our 2025 high school season on such a high note. ❤️

12/14/2025

Today marks our final public course of 2025 here in Pembroke, and what a wonderful group to finish the year with.

Our class is full of incredible people - college students, PSWs, school staff, nurses, and even a school bus driver - all giving up their day to make sure they’re ready to respond when it matters most.

We’re truly grateful for their commitment to safety and for choosing Ottawa Valley First Aid. Thank you for trusting us with your training. ❤️

12/11/2025

🥶 Colder weather is upon us!
Here are a few easy ways to stay warm this season.⤵️

For more winter-related tips: https://brnw.ch/21wY9uQ

12/05/2025

12/03/2025

👶✨ We’ve got babies on the tables today - baby manikins, that is! They’re drawing quite the crowd and sparking lots of curiosity.

People are stopping by, asking questions, and taking a peek at what we’re up to and we love it! First Aid training always gets a little more exciting when there’s a baby involved. 😉👀

Learning how to help the tiniest humans builds confidence, skills, and peace of mind. Thanks for stopping in and sharing the excitement with us! ❤️