What you should know about the first aid symbol
If you think that the sign representing the Red Cross is the accepted first aid symbol, then think again. Media and pop culture as well as medical and consumer groups may be contributing factors that have continued to mislead people into believing this notion, which is not actually the case.
The red cross is known as the Red Cross's official protective symbol, although many people usually associate it with first aid. Laws stated under the Geneva Conventions as well as other international legislations state that the use of the red cross and other similar signs are intended for official branches of the International Red Cross and the Red Crescent. Moreover, this is also used as a protective symbol for those in the medical profession as well as facilities in war and combat circumstances. The use of this symbol by other persons, groups or organizations are illegal and may be grounds for legal action.
The internationally recognized first aid symbol is a white cross on a green field. However, there are some organizations that may use other emblems such as the Star of Life, which are usually intended for Ambulance services. Other symbols that may be used for the same purpose include the Maltese Cross, Order of Malta Ambulance Corps, St. John Ambulance and others. The Star of Life, which is used by a lot of first aid personnel and volunteers, is also a recognized first aid symbol, but is usually associated with Ambulance and other professional emergency personnel.
A lot of people identify a red cross on a white field as the first aid symbol. However, this sign is actually the international symbol for general humanitarian assistance. Moreover, you may be wondering what symbol must be used to represent general humanitarian assistance, which many people may associate with first aid. It may be interesting to note that there are actually many ways to call a first aid symbol. The name ‘red crystal' is one.
The red crystal features a red crescent and red cross, which, under Geneva conventions, are reserved for humanitarian aid in the event of war and other fortuitous events. This is so because the crescent and cross may have religious association. The first aid symbol a lot of people can associate with is a whit cross on a green field. This symbol should be used to signify first aid instead of a red cross.
So if someone asks you what the accepted first aid symbol is, you pretty much know what to say for an answer.
