INTRODUCTION: Knowledge of the principles of providing first aid is essential in the event of a sudden threat to both health and life. Proper implementation of resuscitation can improve survival rates by up to 50-70%. The aim of the study was to assess the level of first aid knowledge among the inhabitants of urban agglomerations and rural areas. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted in the years 2018-2019 in Poland. The research tool included a test questionnaire covering 10 thematic categories: cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillation (AED), choking, convulsions, external bleeding, diabetes, shock, thermal burns, position of the victim, chest pain. The statistical results were analyzed with the use of Pearson’s chi-squared test and percentage calculations. The results at p<0.05 were deemed significant. RESULTS: The study was conducted on a group of 379 people, out of whom women accounted for 58.6% (n=222) and men - 41.4% (n=157). In terms of residence, 157 inhabitants came from rural areas while 222 participants came from the city. Both the inhabitants of rural areas (n=140; 89.17%) and urban agglomerations (n=195; 87.84%) considered their preparation to be either very good or satisfactory. The average result of the knowledge test for all respondents amounted to 76.59% of correct answers. The final result was not found to be dependent on the place of residence (p=0.736). The lowest level of knowledge was found in questions on the treatment of shock (54.78% vs. 52.25%) and burns (59.87% vs. 59.46%). CONCLUSIONS: There was no statistically significant difference in the level of knowledge between the inhabitants of cities and villages. Despite first aid training and high self-esteem, the surveyed group requires increase in the level of knowledge through new educational programs. Particular attention should be paid to improving the preparation in the field of cardiopulmonary resuscitation amongst inhabitants of rural areas.