Weston EMS Educates Teachers How To 'Stop The Bleed'

WESTON, CT —The first in a series of "Stop the Bleed" presentations by Weston Emergency Medical Services to Weston School teachers and staff took place at Weston High School on March 5. The presentation demonstrated how individuals can "stop the bleed" before help arrives.

"Stop the Bleed" is a national first aid education initiative to prepare the public to save lives if people nearby are severely bleeding. This program has been designed to raise awareness and empower people to take quick action to control serious bleeding. More than one million people have been trained nationally. After participating in the "Stop the Bleed" program, people can gain the ability to recognize life-threatening bleeding and learn to intervene quickly and effectively.

With over 70 participants, the Weston High presentation was moderated by Weston EMS Lt. Ben Frimmer, and followed by a hands-on demonstration. Led by volunteer members of Weston EMS, participants were shown how to utilize direct pressure and use a tourniquet, when available.

Frimmer was introduced by Chief of Weston EMS Michael Schelecter, who gave the opening remarks. Weston High School Principal Lisa DeOrio presided over the event.

Attendees were initially introduced to safety issues to consider and actions to take if they happen upon someone who is bleeding profusely from an injury in their personal life or at school. The person nearest to a bleeding victim may be the one who's most likely to save a life and can make a life or death difference when a bleeding emergency occurs. Certificates were given to participating attendees.

Since the spring of 2019, Weston Volunteer EMS has been teaching Weston residents what to do in an emergency when they encounter someone who has a life-threatening wound. In the summer of 2019, Weston EMS taught a group of Weston security officials how to "Stop the Bleed."

With the endorsement of Weston School Superintendent William McKersie, Weston EMS has begun to provide teachers at the Weston schools the skills needed to "Stop the Bleed."

The next presentation will be held at The Hurlbutt Elementary School on March 25, with 60 participants, and a subsequent presentation at Weston Intermediate School on April 2. Other groups that have an interest in having their students or employees how to "Stop The Bleed" are encouraged to contact Weston EMS.