BUFFALO, N.Y. — Mercy Flight, a nonprofit organization committed to emergency medical care and transport, has teamed up with Olean General Hospital, Bradford (Pa.) Regional Medical Center, Southern Tier Health Care System Inc., St. Bonaventure University, and the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford to provide Stop the Bleed training courses for those in the community interested in learning the basic techniques of bleeding control.
Stop the Bleed is a nationwide initiative, undertaken after the harrowing incident at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012, to teach, train and empower the public about life-saving techniques and how to make a meaningful difference when tragedy strikes.
“Uncontrolled bleeding is the number one cause of preventable death from trauma,” stated Denise Cuillo, director of education and quality improvement at Mercy Flight. “Training our communities how to control bleeding for an injured patient is critical, as their chances of surviving are much greater. You can help to save a life, including your own.”
Timothy Finan, president and CEO of Upper Allegany Health System, added, “Sadly, our nation has seen too many tragic events unfold, where unforeseen and sometimes violent behavior has resulted in injury and the loss of life. This training can save lives by offering basic skills to the general public, which can give people the ability to help those who are injured until first responder assistance arrives.”
The first Stop the Bleed training session is set for October 27, Swartz Hall 162, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. Two classes are scheduled: 9 to 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. to noon.
The second training session will be held Nov. 3, Swan Building Room 209, St. Bonaventure University. Two classes are scheduled: 9 to 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. to noon.
Training sessions are free and open to students, staff and the general public. The trainings are led by Flight Paramedic Brian Wilcox. Each session is limited to 30 attendees, totaling 60 potential attendees each day. Those interested must register by heading to www.mercyflight.org and clicking on Stop the Bleed.
