The Dive Bus Curaçao PADI Emergency First Response (PADI EFR)

Emergency First Response (EFR) is the fastest-growing international CPR, AED and first aid training organization, with more than 31,000 instructors worldwide (including a few at The Dive Bus).

The purpose of the Emergency First Response course is to build confidence and increase willingness to respond to medical emergencies for ‘lay’ rescuers. That’s regular folks like you and us.

EFR courses meet the CPR and first aid training requirements for the PADI Emergency First Responder ((“PADI EFR”) course and all PADI professional-level ratings. Most PADI Instructors are also Emergency First Response Instructors.

If you’re planning on taking your PADI Rescue Diver course or PADI Divemaster course, a current EFR certification – or other agency equivalent – is a pre-requisite. And even if you’re not, it’s a great skill set to have, regardless of your dive certification level.

If your EFR certification has expired, you can renew it with your The Dive Bus EFR Instructors.

At a glance:

Meets the First Aid course prerequisite for the PADI Rescue Diver course. This is a 'dry' course, no diving involved.
Minimum age:  10 years (safety restrictions apply for 10 - 14 year olds)
Pre-requisites: none
Duration: 1 day
Price and what's included

Can I take this course?
Every one!

But you need to take it in order to progress to your PADI Rescue Diver course, and ensure you stay renewed, current and refreshed every 2 years (minimum).
What will I learn?
1. Emergency First Response Primary Care (CPR)

  Learn how to respond to life-threatening emergencies through a combination of knowledge development, skill development and realistic scenario practice to develop confidence in your ability to provide care when emergency situations arise.

2. Emergency First Response Secondary Care (First Aid)

  Learn how to handle injuries or illnesses that are not immediately life threatening. Again you'll focus on secondary assessment and first aid through knowledge development, skill development and realistic scenario practice.
How does the course work?
You'll start off by watching the EFR video, learning simple to follow steps for emergency care, then discuss what you've learnt with your instructor. Your own EFR manual is included in the price of the course.

You'll then learn and practise the skills in a fun, non-stressful learning environment - mostly The Dive Bus open air classroom - and get quite familiar with our good buddy, Bob.

You’ll also make use of realistic items you may have laying around, as well as basic first aid materials that you really should have close to hand at all times, and your EFR self-study manual and quick reference cards
What will I be qualified as?
An Emergency First Responder: an internationally recognised First Aid certification.

Your certification is valid for 24 months after which time you'll need to renew it to keep your skills and knowledge up to par.
Does my certification expire?
Your certification is valid for 24 months, as it’s a good idea to refresh your CPR and first aid skills fairly regularly.

That’s what the EFR Refresher course is designed to do. Focusing on key skills, the course allows you to stay up-to-date with your skills so you’re ready to lend a hand when needed, as well as any new techniques, developments or guidelines.
Where can I get detailed info about this and similar courses?
Visit the Emergency First Response website for more information
Do I need to bring anything special with me on the course?
These items are a great idea:
- Clothes you don't mind getting dirty in (you're going to be rolling around on the floor quite a bit)
- Your own First Aid kit if you have one, so you can learn more about its contents and what they are for
- An elastic bandage with fastener (can be safety pins)
- A triangular bandage - if you don't have one, be creative ;o)
I’m in: what are my next steps?
Swing by The Dive Bus as soon as you get to sunny Curacao and pick up your Emergency First Response manual.

If you can’t wait until you get to Curacao, pick one up from your local PADI dive shop back home.

Whichever option you choose, your Dive Bus instructor will review everything with you to ensure you’re comfortable and ready to go…