Originally starting as a grassroots campaign, the Stop the Bleed program (a course teaching people how to perform first aid) quickly became a federal issue. Because of the recent shootings around the country, the Stop the Bleed program took the initiative to encourage bystanders to train and help others in case of a bleeding emergency.
The school now offers a course which Dr. Pulido will open to the public, teaching others how to act in emergency situations. The class will teach people how to properly put on a tourniquet and apply gauze. The course also delves into the correct way to perform CPR on people of all ages, stop a baby from choking and perform mouth-to-mouth in extreme situations.
In late August, Pre-Med students performed the first Stop the Bleed class. They hope to help others become CPR certified and plan to open up the class to anyone who wants to attend. The future dates of these classes will depend on student interest.
President of the Pre-Medical Society senior Ebin Mathew has taken a special interest in these classes. “American Heritage has always offered CPR classes every year, especially through the Pre-Med Program. However, after the MSD shooting, we started doing more Stop the Bleed classes because that situation hit close to home, and, if anything happens, we want to have as many people ready to help as we can,” Mathew said.
For those interested in taking a course, future classes will most likely be held in the 8000 or 9000 building. Students will not need parental consent to take the course but the class charges a fee to certify students in CPR and first aid.
“We need as many people, no matter the age, ready in an emergency scenario, because anything can happen anytime. Honestly, it is mind blowing and scary how quickly things can change. If we take the necessary precautions, we can do our part and help students and faculty,” Mathew said.
