What Is the PADI EFR Course? A Simple Guide to Emergency First Response
The PADI EFR course, short for Emergency First Response, teaches you how to give CPR and basic first aid in an emergency. It is designed for everyday life, not just diving, so you can help family, friends or strangers when it matters most.
For divers, EFR is also the first-aid step before the PADI Rescue Diver course. Want to take EFR during your holiday? Send us your dates in the form below.
What Does EFR Stand For?
EFR stands for Emergency First Response. It is a training program created by PADI’s sister organisation and follows international guidelines for CPR and first aid. You do not need to be a diver to take it.
What Will You Learn?
The course is built around two main parts:
| Part | What it covers |
| Primary Care (CPR) | Responding to life-threatening emergencies: checking the scene, CPR, rescue breathing, managing serious bleeding, shock and spinal injury, and using an AED |
| Secondary Care (First Aid) | Helping with injuries and illnesses that are not immediately life-threatening: assessment, bandaging and splinting |
An optional module, Care for Children, focuses on CPR and first aid for infants and children.
How Is the Course Taught?
EFR is practical and hands-on. You learn through short theory sessions, demonstrations and lots of practice with your instructor, including role-play scenarios. There is no diving involved, so it takes place on land.
Who Should Take the EFR Course?
- Divers planning to take the PADI Rescue Diver course
- Future dive professionals working toward Divemaster
- Parents and teachers who want to protect children
- Travellers and outdoor lovers who may be far from medical help
- Anyone who wants the confidence to help in an emergency
Why Divers Need EFR
To start the PADI Rescue Diver course, you need CPR and first-aid training completed within the last 24 months. EFR meets this requirement. It is also required for the PADI Divemaster course.
Read more on our PADI Rettungstaucher page.
EFR at Chloe’s Diving Center
At Chloe’s Diving Center, the PADI Emergency First Response course costs €200 and usually takes about 1 day. Learn more on our PADI Emergency First Response page and see all prices on our diving prices in Hurghada page.
Many divers take EFR on a non-diving day, for example the day before they fly home.
Book Your EFR Course
The PADI EFR course gives you skills that can save a life, at home, at work or on a dive boat. Book your course or message us on WhatsApp.
Do I need to be a diver to take EFR?
No. EFR is open to everyone, divers and non-divers.
Is there any diving in the EFR course?
No. The course takes place on land.
How long is EFR valid?
For PADI Rescue Diver and Divemaster, your CPR and first-aid training must be within the last 24 months.
Is EFR the same as a first-aid course?
It covers CPR and first aid, following international guidelines, with a strong focus on practice.
