Title: Legal & Safety Considerations
Type: Lesson
When you provide first aid, you are protected by certain laws as long as you act in good faith, within your training, and with the victim’s consent. Let’s look at the key rules that keep you and the victim safe:
Most U.S. states have Good Samaritan Laws that protect people who:
Voluntarily help someone in an emergency
Act in good faith and without expectation of compensation
Don’t act with gross negligence or recklessness
You are covered as long as you stay within your training and try to help responsibly.
Before giving first aid, get permission:
Say, “I’m trained in first aid. Can I help you?”
If the person is unconscious or confused, consent is implied
Do NOT help someone who clearly refuses care unless they become unconscious or unable to respond.
Protecting yourself is just as important as helping the victim. Always use PPE when available:
Gloves to prevent contact with blood or bodily fluids
CPR masks or face shields when giving breaths
Eye protection in case of spurting fluids or chemicals
First aid kits should contain basic PPE and barrier devices. If no gloves are available, use a clean plastic bag or thick cloth as a barrier.
If you’re responding in a workplace:
Notify a supervisor or safety officer
Complete any required incident report or exposure form
Follow your company’s first aid or bloodborne pathogen protocol
You are protected, but only if you act responsibly and within your training. Ask first, protect yourself, and help with confidence.
Click “Mark Complete” to take the Final Assessment, which will test your knowledge of emergency response, CPR, AED, first aid, and safety practices.