Anyone coming across an emergency medical or injury situation could find their fingers do the talking if they have a new first-aid app on their phones.
The First Aid and Emergency app was launched by the Red Cross last Saturday, also World First Aid Day. The free app was designed to give people life-saving skills at their fingertips, New Zealand Red Cross Northland training co-ordinator Kevin Spill said.
It offers simple, easy advice on everyday first-aid scenarios, tips on how to prepare for natural disasters and instructions for an emergency. Preloaded content means users have instant access to all information, even without cellphone reception or an internet connection, anytime, anywhere.
"It won't ever take the place of taking a first-aid course and we encourage anyone who can to do that, but it could certainly help save lives," Mr Spill said.
More than 500 people around New Zealand have been testing the app to help the Red Cross improve its functionality and content.