St John Ambulance has announced that its highly popular first aid app has now been ported to the Android mobile phone platform. The app, which gives users advice on how to treat a range of emergencies, as well as minor injuries, has proven to be the difference between life and death.
 
Launched in 2010, the ‘St John Ambulance First Aid’ app became an instant success and was the UK’s best selling health and fitness app on iPhones. It has now been downloaded by almost 170,000 people – and, nationally, the charity has learnt that it has already saved a life, when a mother got in touch to say she was able to give first aid to her choking baby thanks to the app.
 
The app gives useful advice on how to deal with effects of the cold, such as hypothermia and frostbite. It also demonstrates how to cope with emergencies such as choking or heart attacks. The charity is urging Android and iPhone users to download the app so they have the first aid information they need to save a life or provide support while waiting for help to arrive, particularly important during winter months when ambulance waiting times may be longer.
 
The app features easily accessible, step-by-step information, an intuitive interface and voice prompts for several first aid techniques.
 
Phil Bennett, Commercial Development Officer for St John Ambulance Isle of Man, said: ‘It is great news that the St John Ambulance first aid app is now available for Android phones, meaning that millions more people can potentially be lifesavers by downloading it. Up to 140,000 people die every year in situations where first aid could have given them the chance to live and we are determined to change this. Being armed with the app could help you be the difference between a life lost and a life saved. I'd like to encourage every Android and iPhone user in the Isle of Man to equip themselves with this essential, easy-to-follow advice.’