In recent years, the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association released new guidelines for certain first-aid procedures to make them more effective and easier to administer.

Choking: The Red Cross used to suggest that you perform abdominal thrusts (also know as the Heimlich maneuver) but now advises that you first deliver five back blows followed by five abdominal thrusts.

Bleeding: The American Heart Association used to recommend a combination of direct pressure, elevation, and using pressure points to control bleeding. The new guidelines from both organizations suggest using just direct pressure.

Both organizations also offer a variety of first-aid and CPR classes. To locate classes go to:

American Red Cross, www.redcross.org/services/hss/courses

American Heart Association, www.americanheart.org