First Aid Myths Explained: Essential Tips for Quick Response

10 August 2025

First Aid Myths Explained

We’ve been training teams in first aid for over 10 years.

Our experienced trainers know a thing or two about what to do (and what not to do) in an emergency.

Here are some of the most common first aid myths and misconceptions in first aid we come across, and the facts you should know.

Heart Saver's first aid training courses provide learners with the latest first aid information and techniques needed to take care of yourself and others.

Myth: Ice a burn.

Fact:  You should never put ice directly on a burn - it can cause more damage.

Instead, run the burn under cool water for at least 20 minutes.

While you’re cooling the burn, be careful not to drop the patient’s whole body temperature too. 

A good tip to remember: cool the burn, not the patient.

Myth:  Mouth-to-mouth is too risky because of catching an infection

Fact: The risk of infection is very low – and in an emergency, rescue breaths can save lives.

This follows official advice from the New Zealand Resuscitation Council.

In our training courses, our trainers always have single-use face shields for practice.

Myth: Defibrillators will shock anyone, anywhere

Fact: You can't shock someone who doesn’t need it. 

Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) are smart.

They are designed to read the heart’s rhythm and will only deliver a shock if it’s medically necessary.

Myth: You should never move an injured person

Fact: Your first priority is to make the scene safe.

While it’s true that moving someone can sometimes worsen their condition or cause pain, there are situations where moving them is absolutely necessary.

For example, you will need to move the person if they’re lying on a road, near a fire, or in a position that prevents you from giving lifesaving care. In these cases, safety comes first.

Myth: First aid is only necessary for physical injuries

Fact: Mental health emergencies are just as real as physical ones.

Just like with physical first aid, you can learn to recognise signs of distress and offer practical, effective support.

With the right training – like our Online Mental Health First Responders Course – you can be prepared to step in confidently when it matters most.

Stay present, remember the basics and never assume someone else has called for help. In high-stress situations, even the most obvious steps can be missed. 

How can Heart Saver help?

Beyond knowing what to do, it’s essential to stay present and proactive when every second counts.

If the person you’re helping is responsive, try to involve them in their own care. Introduce yourself, ask questions, and listen. They may be able to tell you what hurts, what happened, or what position they feel most comfortable in.

Ready to learn more? Explore Heart Saver's first aid courses and book your spot today.

We also offer a number of downloadable tools and resources for you and your team. Please see the Resources section of our website.

If you have any questions, please contact our team.

Need first aid training?

Our online and hands-on first aid training courses are designed to make sure your team are ready to respond quickly and confidently.

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