1st responder

[Jcredeur]

You could definitely join up with a local volunteer department. That way they would more than likely cover the expense of the class. I believe the first responder class is around a 58hr class and the next step up is Basic EMT which is around 150hrs.
The problem with acting without a certification these days is opening yourself up for the lawsuits. Louisiana has the Good Samaritan Laws which protect people who are trying to help in the event of an emergency but I believe it is real limited in what it will protect you from.
Even once you do get certified you must still act within your scope of practice. This means you are still limited to certain things when giving help. It's a great thing t get into I have been certified both first respo see an EMT for the better part of ten years now.
Let me know if you have any other questions.