As the First Aider, your job is to get and maintain a current First Aid/CPR certification so the troop is covered for outings and events. You'll make copies of your certification card for the troop leader, Events Manager, and Happy Camper so they can file the required paperwork throughout the year.
First Aid/CPR is the most standardized training in Girl Scouts -- the requirements are nearly identical across all councils.
First Aid/CPR/AED Certification - You need a certification that includes specific instruction in adult and pediatric CPR, first aid, and AED (automated external defibrillator) use. The certification must include a face-to-face, hands-on skills check. At most councils, online-only courses do not satisfy this requirement because they don't provide enough opportunity to practice and receive feedback on technique. A few councils began accepting the American Red Cross online-only course after COVID -- check with your council before choosing an online options.
Accepted training providers (consistent across all councils):
American Heart Association (AHA)
American Red Cross (ARC)
Medic First Aid (formerly EMP America)
National Safety Council (NSC)
Emergency Care & Safety Institute (ECSI / AAOS)
American Safety & Health Institute (ASHI)
If you already hold a current certification from any of these providers, you're done -- just provide copies to your troop leader, events manager, and happy camper.
Certification must be renewed every 2 years. Mark your calendar so it doesn't lapse mid-troop-year.
Ask your Council: "Do you offer First Aid/CPR training for volunteers, and what does it cost?" by emailing Customer Care in your Council. Some councils arrange group training sessions at a reduced cost. Troop funds can often be used to cover the course cost. Also ask whether your council accepts any online-only certification, since this is one area where policies have been changing.
Online-only First Aid/CPR courses do NOT satisfy Girl Scouts' requirements. You need an in-person course with hands-on practice.
Certificates from 6 organizations are accepted: American Heart Association, Medic First Aid, National Safety Council, Emergency Care & Safety Institute, and American Safety & Health Institute. If you already have a current certifcate from any of these, you're already done.
Make 3 copies of your certification card: one for the troop leader, one for the Happy Camper, and one for the Events Manager.
This role has no ongoing time commitment beyond keeping the certificate current and attending the field trips and campouts.
Download the First Aider role sample letter.
This is a customizable Word document that your co-leader can fill in with your Council's specific training links and hand to you.