On October 6, 2015, the White House Administration launched the "Stop the Bleed" campaign to provide people with the tools and knowledge to stop life-threatening bleeding in emergency situations. Working with the private sector, nonprofit organizations, and the medical community, the "Stop the Bleed" campaign puts knowledge gained by first responders and our military into the hands of the public to help save lives. The goal is for bleeding control to become as common as "Stop, Drop and Roll", CPR and AED training.
Misconception:
Severe bleeding isn't that common so it isn't a practical first aid skill regular citizens need to learn.
Truth:
Trauma is the leading cause of death in Americans 1-44 years of age. Severe bleeding is one of the leading preventable causes of trauma death.
Severe bleeding can become life-threatening or even fatal in less than 5 minutes.
Misconception:
Only professional responders have the ability to control severe bleeding.
Truth:
If you can learn CPR and use an AED, then you can easily learn to control severe bleeding.
With basic training and the right supplies, anyone can be empowered to stop severe bleeding.
Misconception:
Tourniquets cause more harm than good.
Truth:
Extensive military studies and modern use in the field have proven tourniquets to be an effective and low-risk way to save lives during emergencies.
Modern, commercially manufactured tourniquets are highly effective, easy-to-use, and are the definitive way to stop severe bleeding in an extremity.
Official Administration Information
Get Involved: Stop the Bleed
FACT SHEET: Bystander: “Stop the Bleed” Broad Private Sector Support for Effort to Save Lives and Build Resilience
Don't Be a Bystander: Find Out How You Can "Stop the Bleed"
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