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First Aid for Severe Trauma (FAST)

The Power to Save

Empowering High School Students to Think FASTTM

The FASTTM education program is based on funding provided by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) to the National Center for Disaster Medicine and Public Health (NCDMPH). The FASTTM course and digital materials, developed by the American Red Cross in collaboration with NCDMPH, will be offered at no charge to high school students under the age of 19, thanks to the S&T grant.

Three Steps to Help Save a Life

  • Get Trained

    Number 1 and icon for pen and paper

    The American Red Cross First Aid for Severe TraumaTM course is offered at no charge to students attending high school.

  • Gear Up

    Number 2 and red cross medicine bag

    Make sure your school has the necessary bleeding control, first aid and training supplies.

  • Take Action

    Number 3 and phone

    If you see someone with life-threatening bleeding, tell someone to call 9-1-1, then follow the steps you learned in the FASTTM course.

four high school students

Treat Trauma. Save Lives.

Do you know how to respond to a severe trauma, such as life-threatening bleeding? FASTTM provides training in how to:

  • Recognize and stop life-threatening bleeding
  • Communicate effectively during an emergency
  • Safeguard rescuers and the trauma victim
  • Safely position the trauma victim
  • Apply direct pressure and tourniquets
teacher in classroom

Teachers & Schools

Do you think your school might be interested in adding this course to its health education curriculum? Learn more about how to implement the course, which can be taught as a required class or an elective, and necessary training materials.

Teacher in front of chalkboard

Learn More

Stop the Bleed logo

Stop the Bleed Resources

Last Updated: 12/27/2023
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