Pitman High School students learn life-saving techniques to stop trauma bleeding

# Stop the Bleed: Turlock High School Students Learn Life-Saving Skills Amid Rising Gun Violence Concerns

In an era where school safety is a growing concern, Pitman High School in Turlock is taking proactive steps to empower its students with life-saving skills. Through the **Stop the Bleed** program, students are learning how to respond to emergencies, particularly those involving severe bleeding—a critical skill in the face of gun violence and other traumatic incidents.

## What is the Stop the Bleed Program?

The **Stop the Bleed** initiative is a nationwide campaign designed to teach individuals how to control bleeding in emergency situations. The program emphasizes three key steps:

1. **Identify the source of bleeding.**
2. **Apply pressure to stop the bleeding.**
3. **Use tourniquets or packing wounds when necessary.**

Originally developed by the Department of Homeland Security in response to mass shootings, the program has since expanded to include training for schools, workplaces, and communities.

## Why Pitman High School Chose This Program

With gun violence becoming an increasingly pressing issue nationwide, Pitman High School administrators and staff recognized the need to prepare students for real-world emergencies.

- **Proactive Safety Measures:** The school aims to equip students with practical skills that could save lives in critical moments.
- **Empowering Students:** By teaching these techniques, the program helps students feel more confident and capable in emergency situations.
- **Community Resilience:** The training fosters a sense of responsibility and readiness within the broader community.

## Hands-On Training for Students

During the training sessions, students practiced applying pressure to wounds and using tourniquets on mannequins and each other. They also learned how to recognize life-threatening bleeding and act quickly to stabilize a victim until professional help arrives.

“It’s not just about gun violence,” said one instructor. “These skills can be used in car accidents, natural disasters, or even everyday accidents at home.”

## The Impact of Stop the Bleed

Since its introduction, the program has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, parents, and staff. Many students expressed feeling more prepared to handle emergencies, while parents appreciated the school’s commitment to safety.

- **Increased Awareness:** Students are more aware of the importance of immediate response in emergencies.
- **Practical Skills:** The hands-on nature of the training ensures students retain what they learn.
- **A Safer School Environment:** By fostering a culture of preparedness, the school is taking meaningful steps to protect its community.

## A Step Toward a Safer Future

While the program doesn’t address the root causes of gun violence, it provides invaluable tools for mitigating its impact. Pitman High School’s adoption of the **Stop the Bleed** program reflects a broader trend of schools prioritizing safety and preparedness in uncertain times.

As one student put it, “It’s scary to think about, but I’m glad I know what to do if something happens.”

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### What Do You Think?

- Should **Stop the Bleed** training be mandatory in all schools?
- Is it enough to focus on emergency response, or should schools also address the root causes of gun violence?
- How do you feel about students being trained to handle life-threatening situations?
- Could programs like this inadvertently normalize the idea of school shootings?
- What other safety measures should schools implement to protect students?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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