Stop the Bleed
The initial response to an intentional mass-casualty event will be from uninjured bystanders and minimally injured victims; these are the people that may be able to save the lives of severely injured persons. Because bystanders are usually on scene before first responders (fire, police, paramedic), the DHS has a national campaign to teach civilians how to stop severe bleeding so that victims can survive until first responders arrive on scene. People can die from blood loss in less than five minutes, so it is critical that the bleeding is stopped immediately.
Vice-President Joe Biden, Jr. said, “When tragedy strikes anywhere in this nation, the willingness and capability of everyday citizens to take action instead of being passive bystanders can mean the difference between life or death. With very little training and equipment, the individuals closest to the scene of an accident or mass casualty situation can control bleeding until first responders arrive to take over treatment.”
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By getting first aid training and by understanding the procedures for stopping bleeding, we may help achieve the goal of saving lives during mass casualty events.
Originally published at www.invictusconsulting.com.
