The Emergency First Response course is divided into two main sections: Primary Care (CPR) and Secondary Care (First Aid). Each section combines knowledge development, hands-on skills practice, and realistic emergency scenarios to build your confidence and decision-making ability.
Expect a mix of short videos, instructor-led discussions, demonstrations, and practical sessions. You’ll work through real-life scenarios using role-play and receive immediate feedback to build muscle memory and confidence. The course is designed to be interactive, flexible, and suitable for all learning styles.
No high-pressure exams—your instructor will assess your practical skills and understanding throughout. A short knowledge review confirms you’ve grasped the key concepts.
Once complete, your EFR certification is valid for 24 months. Refresher courses are recommended to keep your skills sharp.
Looking to go further? EFR is accepted internationally and is the first step toward more advanced rescue and leadership qualifications. Browse adventuro’s listings for rescue diver, wilderness first aid, and instructor-level training near you.
Completing the EFR course gives you the competence and confidence to act in a medical emergency, whether you’re out on the water, in the mountains, or at home. You’ll be certified in Primary Care (CPR), Secondary Care (first aid), and how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
In the context of adventure sports, EFR is especially valuable. It’s a core prerequisite for courses like the PADI Rescue Diver, and is often required by tour operators and centres offering advanced activities. Beyond that, it’s a life skill—useful for group leaders, parents, instructors, or anyone who might be first on the scene during an accident.
While EFR does not qualify you as a professional medic, it bridges the crucial gap between incident and emergency services arriving. You’ll be equipped to manage everything from minor cuts and sprains to CPR and shock management—skills that could one day save a life.
The Emergency First Response course can be completed in one full day (approximately 6–8 hours), depending on class size and prior experience. Some centres may offer it over two half-days or as a blended format with online theory followed by in-person skills practice. It’s designed to be flexible and learner-friendly.
The Emergency First Response (EFR) course is assessed through a mix of practical skill demonstrations and knowledge development. There is no formal pass/fail exam—instead, you'll be guided by your instructor to demonstrate confidence and competence in essential emergency care skills like CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), use of AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators), and basic first aid. You'll complete hands-on scenarios that simulate real-life emergencies and review knowledge through workbook exercises or online eLearning. Most people pass without issue, and instructors can provide extra practice if needed. You’ll leave the course feeling more prepared and capable in emergency situations. You can find and book EFR courses at centres across the UK and beyond on adventuro’s extensive course pages.
Quick answers about this qualification. For anything else, use live chat or browse bookable activities below.
Find activitiesEmergency First Response (EFR) is a training course that teaches primary and secondary care skills for handling medical emergencies. You'll learn CPR, AED use, and first aid techniques in a calm, supportive setting. It’s suitable for divers and non-divers alike and often required before certain scuba certifications like Rescue Diver.
No prior medical or first aid experience is needed. The course is designed for beginners and uses easy-to-understand language. Your instructor will guide you step-by-step through all the skills until you feel comfortable and confident.
Yes, Emergency First Response is a globally recognised certification backed by PADI. It's accepted by dive centres, employers, and organisations around the world as valid first aid and CPR training.
Most EFR courses are completed in 6 to 8 hours. This can vary depending on the group size and whether you're doing classroom-based learning or eLearning followed by in-person practice. Some centres may split it across two sessions.
There is no formal exam. Instead, you'll complete knowledge reviews and demonstrate emergency care skills in practical scenarios. Your instructor will give helpful feedback and make sure you’re confident before certification.
You can complete the knowledge portion of the EFR course online through eLearning. However, you'll still need to attend an in-person session to practise and demonstrate hands-on CPR, AED use, and first aid skills under an instructor’s guidance.
While EFR meets many international and recreational standards, it may not always meet specific workplace or legal requirements in every country. If you're taking it for employment purposes, check with your employer or local authority.
Yes. EFR certification is valid for 24 months. After that, you should complete a refresher course to stay current and confident in your emergency response skills. Many centres offer convenient update sessions.
Yes, children as young as 10 can participate in the EFR course, provided they can understand and perform the skills. It’s a great way to empower young people with life-saving knowledge in a supportive environment.
You can book Emergency First Response courses through a wide range of certified centres across the UK and abroad. Visit adventuro’s course listings to find one near you and check availability.