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Posted On: October 20th 2026, 04:07 pm
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SECONDS TO REACT — PART 2: STOP THE BLEED!
At the scene of a serious accident, what’s the first medical priority? It may not be what you think.
Once you’ve determined it’s safe to exit your vehicle and approach the scene (see Episode 1), your next priority could mean the difference between life and death.
In Part 2 of our Malibu VOP medical training series, Mark Hollinger of Malibu Search and Rescue emphasizes a critical rule: MASSIVE, LIFE-THREATENING BLEEDING COMES FIRST! A victim can bleed to death in minutes.
Mark demonstrates how to use a tourniquet to control life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg.
WHEN TO USE A TOURNIQUET: For massive, life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg, particularly arterial bleeding that cannot be controlled with direct pressure.
REMEMBER: HIGH AND TIGHT!
* POSITION TOURNIQUET HIGH: Normally, place the tourniquet 2–3 inches above the bleeding wound, toward the heart, never over a joint. For massive bleeding or when the wound cannot be quickly located, go HIGH AND TIGHT — high on the upper arm or thigh.
* TIGHTEN IT: Pull the strap snug, then turn the tightening rod (windlass) until the bleeding STOPS COMPLETELY. Secure the rod so it cannot unwind. Proper application will be painful.
* RECORD THE TIME: Note the exact time the tourniquet was applied and tell arriving emergency personnel.
* DO NOT LOOSEN OR REMOVE IT: Once applied, leave the tourniquet in place for medical professionals.
The lesson? What happens BEFORE the ambulance arrives can save a life.
These aren’t just skills for our VOPs. They’re lessons everyone should know.
Interested in joining the team or learning more about the program? Start here: www.malibuvop.team (link in bio)
#MalibuVOP #StopTheBleed #LASD
At the scene of a serious accident, what’s the first medical priority? It may not be what you think.
Once you’ve determined it’s safe to exit your vehicle and approach the scene (see Episode 1), your next priority could mean the difference between life and death.
In Part 2 of our Malibu VOP medical training series, Mark Hollinger of Malibu Search and Rescue emphasizes a critical rule: MASSIVE, LIFE-THREATENING BLEEDING COMES FIRST! A victim can bleed to death in minutes.
Mark demonstrates how to use a tourniquet to control life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg.
WHEN TO USE A TOURNIQUET: For massive, life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg, particularly arterial bleeding that cannot be controlled with direct pressure.
REMEMBER: HIGH AND TIGHT!
* POSITION TOURNIQUET HIGH: Normally, place the tourniquet 2–3 inches above the bleeding wound, toward the heart, never over a joint. For massive bleeding or when the wound cannot be quickly located, go HIGH AND TIGHT — high on the upper arm or thigh.
* TIGHTEN IT: Pull the strap snug, then turn the tightening rod (windlass) until the bleeding STOPS COMPLETELY. Secure the rod so it cannot unwind. Proper application will be painful.
* RECORD THE TIME: Note the exact time the tourniquet was applied and tell arriving emergency personnel.
* DO NOT LOOSEN OR REMOVE IT: Once applied, leave the tourniquet in place for medical professionals.
The lesson? What happens BEFORE the ambulance arrives can save a life.
These aren’t just skills for our VOPs. They’re lessons everyone should know.
Interested in joining the team or learning more about the program? Start here: www.malibuvop.team (link in bio)
#MalibuVOP #StopTheBleed #LASD
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