Stop The Bleed – Proficient Training

The Stop the Bleed course is a short, hands-on training program designed to teach everyday people how to recognize and control life-threatening bleeding until professional help arrives. It was launched in the U.S. in 2015 through a partnership between the American College of Surgeons, the US Department of Defense, and other emergency response organizations.

We can now offer it in Canada.

Purpose

To empower bystanders to act quickly in emergencies (accidents, workplace injuries, violent incidents, natural disasters).
To reduce preventable deaths caused by uncontrolled bleeding.

Length & Format

Usually 60–90 minutes long.
A mix of classroom-style instruction and hands-on practice with training equipment.
Taught by medical professionals, first responders, or certified instructors.

Key Skills Learned

Identifying life-threatening bleeding
- Recognizing when bleeding is severe enough to be fatal.
- Understanding common causes (car crashes, industrial accidents, shootings, etc.).
Applying direct pressure
- Using hands or dressings to control bleeding.
- Packing wounds with gauze or cloth when pressure alone is not enough.
Using tourniquets
- Proper placement and tightening of a tourniquet.
- Understanding when to use one and how to monitor it.
Building confidence to act
- Overcoming hesitation.
- Knowing that immediate action can save a life before EMS arrives.

Who Should Take It?

General public (no medical background required).
Teachers, employees, community groups, security staff, event organizers.
Anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies.