Save a life-Stop the bleed
If you come across someone who has been stabbed, there are some basic first aid steps you can take to help slow the bleeding and allow time for the paramedics to arrive.
FACT:
There were 262 recorded murders involving a knife or sharp object in England and Wales between March 2023-March 2024.
What To Do If Someone Has Been Stabbed
The most important action if you find someone with a stab wound is to apply firm pressure to the wound. Ideally, use a piece of clothing or a clean cloth to cover the wound, and PRESS down hard.
Controlling the bleeding gives the injured person a better chance while waiting for emergency services to arrive. Every second counts.
- Check it is safe to approach
- Call 999 as soon as possible
- Shout for help
- Find the wound
- PRESS on the wound
- NEVER remove the knife
- Talk to the victim
- Remain calm
If a second person is present, emergency services may direct them to a BLEED KIT, if one is nearby. A bleed kit contains essential items such as dressings, chest seals, tourniquets, and gloves.
All the equipment in the kit allows a bystander to take immediate action, helping to control bleeding and potentially save lives.
See catastrophic bleed kit page on this website.