And - unlike most disasters when you're told to "move along there now" - the public are invited to attend this free event and see if they too could learn to save a life.

For 26 countries are sending their best lifesavers to compete in a series of rigorous First Aid challenges in the annual First Aid Convention in Europe, taking place in Ireland for the very first time.

"This event involves teams from right across Europe, where there are more than a hundred million medical interventions every year. Here in Ireland parents, motorists and neighbours could greatly increase their abilities to save lives in a crisis by picking up a few of the basic First Aid techniques that they will see at this competition," said Irish Red Cross Vice-Chairman, Tony Lawlor.

Over a thousand competitors and their supporters from across Europe are arriving at the University of Limerick where the event is taking place and tonight (Friday) sees the opening of the competitions with the Minister for Defence, Willie O'Dea, the Leas-Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, Cllr Bridget Teefy and the Vice-President of UL, Prof Paul McCutcheon as well as directors of lead sponsors Ambu and Cardiac Science.

Tomorrow, (Saturday) the competitions get underway at 8am, lasting until 6pm with 28 separate tests and activities set along a 7km circuit.

Demonstrations of basic First Aid will be specifically provided for people who want to learn more about what they see at the competitions.

"Death rates from cardiac arrest in Ireland are among the highest in Europe so we're laying on two free workshops in CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Rescusitation) specially for people with no other First Aid skill. This will be of great benefit to everyone who comes along - and to their family and friends," added Tony Lawlor.

Free shuttle buses have been laid-on to take members of the public to the competition from O'Connell Street, Limerick City to the competitions site at the University of Limerick.