MINERAL COUNTY— If you›ve had a chance to walk around town lately, you may have noticed an addition to several of the automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Those AEDs that are publicly accessible have been equipped with Stop-the-Bleed kits.
These kits contain supplies that will enable non-health-care providers to respond immediately to a situation where a trauma victim exhibits uncontrolled bleeding. Since hemorrhagic bleeding can result in death within only a few minutes, it is essential that bystanders take immediate action in advance of the arrival of an ambulance. The kits, pictured, contain dressings, bandages, a tourniquet, a trauma shears, a pair of nitrile gloves and a marking pen, all contained in a vacuum-packed, tamper-proof package.
The kits were purchased with funds donated by the Mineral County Ambulance Board,  Mineral County Commissioners, the City of Creede, Creede Elks Lodge No. 506 and the Ladies Aid Society.
Many of the county residents and visitors alike have received first aid training and should be familiar with the actions necessary to stop uncontrolled bleeding. However, Stop-The-Bleed classes are available to individuals, organizations, businesses, or other groups on an as-requested basis as a refresher. The classes last about 90 minutes and are free. Typically, class size is limited to eight students.
To request a class, contact Don Dustin at 719-658-0184.  Keep in mind that the motto of the Stop-The-Bleed program is “The only thing more tragic than a death from bleeding is a death that could have been prevented.”