If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1.
Trauma Prevention & Community Education Programs
Free programs for schools and community groups — because the best emergency is one that never happens.
Free Trauma Prevention Programs for Schools and Communities.
Trauma Prevention and Community Education
As a Level II Trauma Center, Riverside is committed to preventing injuries before they happen. Our emergency department team leads free programs across the region — in schools, workplaces, and community organizations — because the best emergency is one that never happens.
Our Free Programs
All programs can be tailored to your group's needs and are provided at no cost. Click each program below to learn more.
Stop the Bleed Training
Bleeding is the number one cause of preventable death in trauma. This hands-on class, taught by instructors certified through the American College of Surgeons, teaches bystanders how to recognize life-threatening bleeding and take action to stop it.
Participants learn how to use tourniquets and pack wounds — skills that can save a life before emergency help arrives. This course is ideal for workplaces, schools, faith communities, and civic organizations.
Pre-Prom: Road to Reality Event
These powerful events are a collaboration between Riverside EMS, local fire departments, police, and coroner's offices. Students at a participating school witness a staged car accident featuring actors from their own school, complete with EMS extrication, field sobriety testing, and a look at what happens in the emergency department.
Additional scenes can include a courtroom or funeral sequence. Guest speakers — including the State's Attorney's office — close out the event. These programs are typically scheduled before prom or homecoming to encourage responsible choices.
Distracted Driving Courses
Designed for driver's education classes at local high schools, this program teaches newly licensed students about the types of distractions they'll face behind the wheel and how to avoid them. Students hear real data behind distracted driving laws and learn what happens in the emergency department after a car accident.
Trauma Survivors Network
Riverside Medical Center has partnered with the Trauma Survivors Network (TSN), which connects survivors, builds supportive communities, and enhances recovery skills. Through the TSN website, patients can access information about Riverside Healthcare and the communities we serve, including peer visitation, support groups, and family classes — both in person and virtually.
Custom Safety Classes
Our emergency department staff can also create customized safety presentations for your group. Topics include bike safety, poison control, water safety, bleeding control, and more. If you have a specific safety topic in mind, we'll work with you to build a program that fits your audience.
Trauma Community Outreach Scholarship
Riverside Healthcare provides scholarships to local high school students who complete an essay after participating in a Riverside trauma prevention course or event. Ask your school counselor or contact Dana Arseneau for details.
Bring a Program to Your School or Organization
All trauma prevention programs are free and can be customized for your group. Contact Dana Arseneau to schedule a program or learn more.
Important Notice
This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.