First Response Emergency Care Level 3 (FREC 3) is a nationally recognised qualification that provides comprehensive pre-hospital emergency care training. It's become essential for security professionals, event medical staff, and anyone who may need to provide emergency care in challenging environments.
What is FREC 3?
FREC 3 is a regulated qualification on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) that covers emergency care from initial assessment through to handover to emergency services. It goes well beyond basic first aid, equipping learners with the skills to manage serious medical emergencies.
What Does FREC 3 Cover?
The FREC 3 curriculum is comprehensive and practical, covering:
- Primary and secondary patient surveys
- Airway management including the use of adjuncts
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED use
- Management of catastrophic bleeding
- Shock recognition and management
- Medical emergencies (cardiac, respiratory, diabetic, seizures)
- Trauma management including fractures and spinal injuries
- Burns and scalds
- Environmental emergencies (hypothermia, hyperthermia)
- Patient handling and extrication
- Documentation and handover procedures
Who Needs FREC 3?
FREC 3 is particularly valuable for:
- Close protection officers and security professionals
- Event medical staff and first aiders
- Outdoor activity instructors and expedition leaders
- Community first responders
- Workplace first aiders in high-risk environments
- Anyone working in remote or challenging locations
Course Duration and Format
FREC 3 courses typically run over 3-5 days depending on the provider. The course includes:
- Classroom-based theory sessions
- Practical skills workshops
- Scenario-based assessments
- Written examination
- Practical examination
Certification and Validity
Upon successful completion, you'll receive a nationally recognised certificate valid for 3 years. To maintain your qualification, you'll need to complete a refresher course or full recertification before expiry.
