Locals in one of NYC’s most dangerous neighborhoods learn how to prevent street victims from losing blood.

Community Training in Brownsville on Bleeding Control

This Tuesday, residents from one of the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods learned how to stop bleeding victims, in a unique training session.

The program took place just a day after an NYPD officer was shot in the face by a man with a gun on a Brownsville sidewalk. Thankfully, the officer survived.

Hosted by the FDNY, the “Control the Bleed” training at the NYCHA Van Dyke Community Center aimed to equip locals with essential skills. Brownsville, an area often affected by gun violence, recently initiated a “police no-go zone” project.

Over 40 participants, many affiliated with the anti-gun violence group Brownsville in Violence Out, practiced techniques for applying pressure to wounds to control bleeding.

FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker noted that “Control the Bleed” is all about empowering New Yorkers with the ability to assist their neighbors in emergencies.

“Instead of just standing there when you see someone in distress, we’re teaching life-saving techniques that can give people the confidence to act in life-threatening situations,” Tucker explained. He emphasized the importance of enabling communities to take action before professional help arrives.

The funding for this initiative came from the FDNY Foundation and the Department of Public Health, allowing the program to launch.

This training aligns with recent data indicating that the NYPD’s 73rd Precinct, which includes Brownsville and Ocean Hill, has seen a nearly 40% drop in both shooting victims and incidents compared to last year.

Nevertheless, local advocates point out that 25 shootings and 30 victims so far this year is still far too high.

“Gun violence is, unfortunately, the primary issue in our community,” remarked Dushawn Almond, the BIVO Program Director.

“Just think about how many lives could have been saved if someone nearby had been trained to stop the bleeding or properly dress a wound,” he added.

Fire department officials noted that other community organizations can also join the program, similar to the many CPR training sessions the FDNY conducts annually. They expect the Control the Bleed initiative will attract more participants as well.

“This training is just the beginning,” Tucker said. “We believe those who learn these skills will share them with friends and family, spreading preparedness in their communities.”