Residents of Palos Park gathered Tuesday evening for a free “Stop the Bleed” class hosted by the Palos Park Police Department, learning essential skills that could save lives in emergencies.
The event was organized by Sergeant Ross Chibe and Officer Fernando “Frank” Flores, who led participants through the life-saving training at the Kaptur Administrative Center. The 90-minute session gave attendees hands-on experience with essential bleeding control techniques.
The program was held thanks to the Community Emergency Response Team, where Palos Park Police officers have received specialized training on how to “Stop the Bleed.”
Officers guided attendees through practical exercises, including applying direct pressure to simulated wounds, packing injuries with medical gauze, and using tourniquets. The hands-on approach gave participants confidence to act swiftly in critical situations.
In addition to hands-on demonstrations, the class covered the ABCs of bleeding — Alert, Bleeding, and Compress — a step-by-step guide that teaches individuals how to call for help, identify the source of bleeding, and apply pressure or a tourniquet to stop it.
“You only have a limited supply of blood running through you,” Flores said. He discussed how major traumas such as car accidents, gunshot wounds, and natural disasters can cause significant bleeding.
“The number one cause of preventable death after injury is bleeding,” Chibe added.
During the program, the importance of tourniquets was emphasized, and demonstrations were given on how to use them effectively in case of an emergency.
“Emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time,” said Palos Park Mayor Nicole Milovich-Walters. “The more people who know how to respond, the safer our community becomes. I encourage everyone to attend the ‘Stop the Bleed’ training and learn these lifesaving skills. Being prepared can truly make all the difference.”
