Stop The Bleed
Ahead of Women in the Wind’s upcoming Safety Month, 13 of the 22 patched members of the Daughters of Odin, plus one guest, attended a “Stop The Bleed” course on Sunday, May 23 – a trauma response class intended to train bystanders to offer potentially life-saving aid to others in the event of a traumatic bleeding injury (or injuries).
Last year the Chapter had planned to attend a CPR class as a group, but unfortunately it was cancelled due to COVID. When we learned of the “Stop The Bleed” class this year, we all agreed it would be a great resource and incredibly worthwhile training (and, of course, a great excuse to ride and see each other again!). We had previously discussed trying to find a first aid class that was geared toward our needs as riders: what to do in the event one of us witnesses a rider go down. Since so many accidents result in bleeding injuries, we knew having the “Stop The Bleed” training would be essential.
The class was offered free of charge through the Connecticut Fire Academy. Our instructor, a female EMS trainer and former firefighter and motorcycle rider, told us we were the first motorcycle group to request this type of training. During the two-hour class we learned about different types of wounds and bleeds, how to apply pressure dressing, how to pack puncture wounds, and how to apply tourniquets.
When class was dismissed, I know we were all feeling much more confident in our abilities to handle a potential emergency situation where we might be called upon to use our new skills. We discussed the first aid kits we currently carry on our bikes and the changes and additions we may be making in the future, such as adding a tourniquet or triangle bandage.
As we were walking out from the building, the instructor asked if we might be interested in pursuing a full first aid course – another private course, just for our group. We chatted together briefly and, aware of how beneficial the “Stop The Bleed” class has been for us, are already looking into details for completing a full first aid course. For now, however, I highly recommend adding a “Stop The Bleed” course to your first aid training. You can find more information at Stop The Bleed.