Canadian first aid candidates have a large selection of providers to select from when choosing a venue for first aid and CPR certification. Candidates for our first aid classes can receive government-licensed and valid certification from at least 24 providers throughout Canada. We strongly recommend that you attend courses through credible providers such as the ones listed below. All first aid and CPR courses completed through these Canadian providers meet government and legislative standards for your area. All first aid courses or classes include certification and training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and in the use of automated external defibrillators (AED). Candidates should be wary of online certification courses which likely do not meet workplace or class or school standards. View our Canadian first aid and CPR providers page for more information.
Major Canadian First Aid Providers:
The following is a list of the major Canadian first aid and CPR providers:
- St Mark James Training
- The Lifesaving Society
- The Heart and Stroke Foundation
- St. Johns Ambulance
Canadian First Aid and CPR Certification Available in Canada
First Aid Certification:
All of the above-mentioned providers certify candidates with identical awards. For example, an emergency first aid course with St Mark James Training is identical in value to a certificate through the Lifesaving Society. The only difference is that you receive a different logo through a different provider. Each provider has its pros and cons but they are essentially offering the same certification. Typically the awards are valid for 3 years and all are nationally accredited. Certification by these Canadian providers all meets government legislation.
CPR Certification:
When taking a Canadian first aid class with one of the previously mentioned providers, candidates have the option of selecting the level of CPR that accompanies the first aid course. All first aid courses, regardless of provider, include certification and training in CPR.
AED Certification:
All Canadian first aid and CPR courses include training and certification in the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). AEDs drastically increase the chance of survival for victims of cardiac arrest so legislation has made it mandatory for candidates to receive AED training.
Course Cost
The cost of first aid and/or CPR course varies on a number of factors. It depends on the level of CPR associated with the first aid course, the level of first aid certification, and the location of the course. Prices vary from 65 dollars to 165 dollars for the basic first aid courses offered by the major providers.
Course Length
Courses range in length depending on the type of course. Courses vary in length from as short as 8 hours to as long as 18 hours. Re-certification course classes are significantly shorter and range from 4 to 8 hours in length. Not all providers have renewal courses.
Take a Canadian first aid and CPR course and learn to save the life of a family member, friend, co-worker, or stranger. Be prepared and confident to handle almost any emergency by taking first aid training.