Stop the Bleed is a national awareness campaign and call to action intended to encourage bystanders to become trained, equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives. It teaches life-saving techniques to control bleeding, including applying direct pressure, packing wounds, and using tourniquets.
Key Techniques
Direct Pressure: Applying firm, constant pressure to the bleeding site.
Wound Packing: Filling a deep wound with gauze or clean cloth and applying pressure.
Tourniquet Application: Using a tourniquet to restrict blood flow to a limb.
Where to Find Training
Stop the Bleed Official Website: The official website provides information on training courses, resources, and how to find a class near you. stopthebleed.org
American Red Cross: The Red Cross offers Stop the Bleed training as part of its first aid and CPR programs. redcross.org/take-a-class/stop-the-bleed
American College of Surgeons: The American College of Surgeons is a leading organization in promoting Stop the Bleed training. facs.org/education/stop-the-bleed
Local Hospitals and Emergency Services: Many hospitals, fire departments, and emergency medical services (EMS) offer Stop the Bleed training.
General First Aid Resources
American Red Cross: Offers a wide range of first aid and CPR courses, both in-person and online. Provides resources on various first aid topics, including bleeding control, burns, fractures, and more. edcross.org/take-a-class
National Institutes of Health (NIH): Provides reliable information on various health topics, including first aid. nih.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Offers first aid information and resources, particularly related to injury prevention and emergency preparedness. cdc.gov
Mayo Clinic: Provides comprehensive information on first aid and medical conditions. mayoclinic.org/first-aid
National Safety Council (NSC): Offers first aid and CPR training and resources. nsc.org
Key First Aid Principles
Assess the Situation: Ensure your safety and the safety of the injured person.
Call for Help: Dial 911 or your local emergency number.
Control Bleeding: Apply direct pressure, wound packing, or a tourniquet.
Treat Other Injuries: Address other injuries, such as fractures, burns, or shock.
Provide Comfort: Reassure the injured person and keep them calm.
Important Notes
First aid training is essential for everyone, especially those who handle firearms. Stop the Bleed training can save lives in bleeding emergencies. Always seek professional medical attention after providing first aid. Practice first aid skills regularly to maintain proficiency.
Firearm Safety Team (FST) 