OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Learning how to stop severe bleeding can mean the difference between life and death—and this month, hundreds of Marion County high school students will gain that critical skill.

May is Stop the Bleed Month, and HCA Florida Ocala Hospital Trauma Center will have a presence at five Marion County High Schools, to help educate, inform and empower, by teaching more than 1,000 students about how they can save a life and stop uncontrolled bleeding. These free classes teach simple, effective techniques that anyone can use to help save a life before first responders arrive.

According to hospital officials, uncontrolled bleeding is one of the leading causes of preventable death in trauma cases. Knowing how to respond quickly can make all the difference.

The trauma center team will visit five Marion County high schools this month, offering hands-on Stop the Bleed training during the school day. Students will learn how to recognize serious bleeding, apply pressure, pack a wound, and use a tourniquet—all essential skills in an emergency.

Stop the Bleed training schedule:

  • May 13: Lake Weir High School – 10351 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala
  • May 15: Belleview High School – 10400 SE 36th Avenue, Belleview
  • May 16: North Marion High School – 151 W. Hwy. 329, Citra
  • May 20: Forest High School – 5000 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala
  • May 22–23: West Port High School – 3733 SW 80th

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