Red Cross First Aid Training, CPR & BLS Course in Ottawa

Most Ottawa workplaces require Intermediate/Standard First Aid with CPR/AED Level C, covering adult, child, and infant. It is required under the WSIA, and the WSIB modernized First Aid Program (effective June 22, 2026) must meet CSA Z1210:24 standards. WSIB approved certificates are required; online-only ones are not accepted, and this applies to Ottawa employers just as it does across Ontario.

Basic/Emergency First Aid with CPR/AED Level C is a shorter, foundational course covering CPR, wound care, and common emergencies, ideal for security guards and PSWs. Intermediate/Standard First Aid with CPR/AED Level C is more comprehensive, adding environmental illness, poisons, and more, required for daycare workers, nurses, and most compliance in Ontario.

CPR/AED Level C certification is valid for three years. Recertification is a shorter course that renews a valid Canadian Red Cross certificate, and Intermediate/Standard First Aid recertification is available within 90 days of expiry for eligible students with a valid full-course certificate. If your certificate expired more than 90 days ago, the full course is required. Recertification requires a minimum grade of 75%.

CPR/AED Level A focuses on adult CPR and AED use and typically runs about 4 to 6.5 hours. CPR/AED Level C (also searched as CPR C) covers adults, children, and infants and is the level most Ottawa employers and healthcare pathways require. Both include hands-on automated external defibrillator practice, and CPR/AED certification is valid for three years.

Yes. BLS replaced CPR-HCP in April 2019. BLS is designed for healthcare providers and trained first responders, and is mandatory for many clinical roles including nurses and paramedics. It covers high-performance CPR, rapid defibrillation, team-based response to cardiovascular emergencies, and managing trauma and opioid overdose. BLS certification is valid for one year, and no prerequisites are needed.

Yes. First aid courses and CPR training courses include hands-on practice with an AED Trainer and first aid equipment used for classroom scenarios. You will learn how to recognize life-threatening emergencies, perform CPR, use an automated external defibrillator trainer, manage choking and bleeding, and provide safe emergency treatment for minor injuries until trained personnel or EMS arrive.

Yes. Pediatric First Aid offers specialized training for infants and children. The Babysitting Course is for ages 11 to 15 and certification is often required for babysitting jobs; it introduces basic first aid and decision-making for youth. Younger children can take the Stay Safe! course, which teaches youth leadership skills and how to stay safe when home alone. These youth courses teach basic first aid, childcare skills, and safety habits that help children respond calmly to everyday emergencies.