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​Injury Prevention Programs

Stop the Bleed®

Stop the Bleed® is a nationally recognized training program that empowers everyday people to take action during a bleeding emergency. Severe bleeding can become fatal within minutes, and immediate bystander response can make the difference between life and death before first responders arrive.

This hands-on workshop provides practical, lifesaving skills that can be used in situations such as serious accidents, workplace injuries, natural disasters, or acts of violence.

What you’ll learn

  • How to recognize and identify life-threatening bleeding
  • When bleeding becomes an emergency and requires immediate action
  • How to apply direct pressure effectively
  • How to pack a wound to control severe bleeding
  • How to properly apply a tourniquet
  • How to stay calm and take action until EMS arrives

Training options

  • Full workshop (30–60 minutes): includes a short lecture and hands-on skill practice
  • Skills-only demonstration: ideal for community events or tabling; techniques can be learned in minutes

Who it’s for 
Training is open to the general public and is ideal for schools, workplaces, community groups, and individuals.

Location 
Classes are offered at Washington Health or can be brought to your organization or event for on-site instruction free of charge.

For more information – Contact our Injury Prevention Coordinator Garrett Cordes Trauma_dept@washingtonhealth.com

Additional resources

Fall Prevention

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury, hospitalization, and loss of independence in older adults. Even a single fall can result in fractures, head injuries, reduced mobility, and fear of falling again.

The good news is that many falls are preventable. Washington Health offers evidence-based fall prevention programs designed to improve strength, balance, and confidence so older adults can stay active and safe.

Programs and Education Offerings

Matter of Balance 
Matter of Balance is a nationally recognized fall prevention program designed to help older adults reduce fear of falling and regain confidence in everyday activities. Participants learn practical strategies to prevent falls, increase physical activity, and improve balance through guided discussion and supportive group engagement.

Bingocize® 
Bingocize® is a fun, interactive program that combines exercise, health education, and bingo. This evidence-based approach helps older adults improve mobility, strength, and balance while also promoting social connection and overall wellness in an enjoyable setting.

Fall Prevention Lecture (1 hour) 
Washington Health also offers a one-hour Fall Prevention lecture focused on practical steps that individuals and families can take to reduce fall risk. The presentation covers common fall risk factors, home safety recommendations, and the National Council on Aging (NCOA) 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall, including:

  • Get your vision and hearing checked annually
  • Find a good balance and exercise program
  • Talk to your health care provider
  • Regularly review your medications
  • Keep your home safe
  • Talk to your family members

This session is ideal for community groups, senior centers, caregivers, and older adults looking for clear, actionable fall prevention guidance.

Who It’s For

Fall prevention programs are ideal for older adults, caregivers, senior living communities, and community organizations.

Scheduling

For more information on Fall Prevention classes or lecture, please contact our Injury Prevention Coordinator Garrett Cordes

Trauma_Dept@washingtonhealth.com

Additional resources

Driving Safety 

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving includes behaviors such as texting, eating, adjusting in-vehicle technology, or anything that takes attention away from driving. These distractions significantly reduce reaction time and increase the risk of serious injury or death.

This presentation helps participants:

  • Identify common driving distractions
  • Understand how distraction increases crash risk
  • Recognize the injury impact of preventable collisions
  • Commit to safer, focused driving behaviors

Drive Safer, Drive Longer

Drive Safer, Drive Longer is designed to support older adult drivers in maintaining safe mobility and independence. This program focuses on age-related changes that can affect driving and provides practical tools to stay safe behind the wheel.

Topics include:

  • Vision, hearing, and reaction time changes
  • Safe driving strategies for older adults
  • Planning for challenging driving conditions
  • Extending safe driving years while maintaining independence

Format and Availability

  • 45–60 minute interactive presentation
  • Ideal for teen drivers, older adults, workplaces, schools, and community groups
  • Available at Washington Health or can be brought on-site to your organization

Scheduling

Presentations can be scheduled upon request. For more information or to host a TREDS Driving For more information – Contact our Injury Prevention Coordinator Garrett Cordes Trauma_dept@washingtonhealth.com

Resources

Pedestrian Safety (TRED Wise)

Pedestrian injuries are rising nationwide and are a growing concern in busy communities. When a person is struck by a vehicle, the risk of severe injury is high—especially for older adults and children. Many pedestrian crashes are preventable and often involve factors such as distracted driving, poor visibility, speeding, and unsafe crossing behaviors.

Washington Health is committed to preventing traffic-related injuries through community education. We offer TRED Wise, a pedestrian safety presentation developed through the Training, Research, and Education for Driving Safety (TREDS) program at UC San Diego. This evidence-based workshop teaches practical strategies to help individuals stay safe while walking near traffic.

TRED Wise Pedestrian Safety Presentation

TRED Wise provides clear, actionable guidance to reduce pedestrian injury risk and promote safer streets for everyone.

Participants will learn:

  • How to cross streets safely using marked crosswalks
  • The importance of staying alert and avoiding distractions such as mobile devices
  • Strategies for improving visibility during early morning, evening, or low-light conditions
  • How to recognize common traffic hazards and driver behaviors
  • Safety considerations for older adults, children, and caregivers

Format and Availability

  • 45–60 minute interactive presentation
  • Ideal for schools, senior centers, community groups, and local organizations
  • Available at Washington Health or can be brought on-site to your location

Who It’s For

Pedestrian safety education is ideal for older adults, families, students, caregivers, and community members interested in preventing traffic-related injuries.

Scheduling

Presentations can be scheduled upon request. For more information or to host a TREDS Driving For more information – Contact our Injury Prevention Coordinator Garrett Cordes Trauma_dept@washingtonhealth.com

Resources

 

Bicycle and Helmet Safety

Bicycling and riding scooters are healthy, fun, and increasingly common ways to travel, but they also come with real injury risk—especially when riders are not properly protected. Falls and collisions can result in serious injuries, including traumatic brain injury, fractures, and other preventable trauma.

Helmet use and safe riding behaviors are proven to significantly reduce the risk of severe injury. Washington Health is committed to preventing bicycle- and scooter-related injuries by sharing safety education and injury prevention resources with our community.

Key Bicycle and Helmet Safety Tips

To reduce the risk of serious injury while riding:

  • Always wear a properly fitted helmet on every ride
  • Replace helmets after a significant impact or crash
  • Use reflective gear and bike lights, especially at night or in low-light conditions
  • Follow traffic laws and ride predictably
  • Stay alert at intersections and driveways
  • Avoid distractions such as mobile devices or headphones while riding
  • Ensure children ride with appropriate supervision and safety equipment

Helmet Fit Matters

A helmet only works if it is worn correctly. A properly fitted helmet should:

  • Sit level on the head (not tilted back)
  • Fit snugly without shifting
  • Have straps secured comfortably under the chin

Wearing a helmet correctly can make the difference between a minor fall and a life-threatening head injury.

Who This Information Is For

Bicycle and helmet safety guidance is especially important for children, teens, commuters, families, and older riders.

For more information – Contact our Injury Prevention Coordinator Garrett Cordes Trauma_dept@washingtonhealth.com

Resources

 

Choking Education

Choking Prevention & Response

Choking is a life-threatening emergency that can occur quickly and without warning. It happens when food or an object blocks the airway, preventing normal breathing. Choking is a leading cause of preventable death, especially among older adults and young children.

The good news is that choking is often preventable, and recognizing the signs early—along with knowing how to respond—can save a life. Washington Health provides education focused on identifying choking and performing abdominal thrusts.

Programs and Education Offerings

Choking Recognition & Response Education 15-30 minutes

This session focuses on helping participants recognize choking and respond appropriately using abdominal thrusts.

Participants will learn:

  • How to recognize the signs of choking 
  • When to encourage coughing vs. when to act 
  • Proper hand placement and technique for abdominal thrusts 
  • How to respond if you are choking alone 
  • Common foods that pose choking risk
  • Safe eating habits and food preparation techniques

This session may include demonstration and guided practice to improve understanding and confidence.

Key Prevention Tips

  • Cut food into small pieces 
  • Chew thoroughly and eat slowly 
  • Avoid talking or laughing while eating 
  • Sit upright during meals 
  • Supervise children while eating 
  • Use caution with high-risk foods 
  • Ensure proper denture fit or swallowing ability in older adults 

Who It’s For

Choking education is ideal for:

  • Older adults 
  • Parents and caregivers 
  • Schools and childcare providers 
  • Community organizations 
  • Senior living communities 
  • General community members 

Scheduling

For more information on Choking Prevention education sessions, please contact:

Garrett Cordes 
Injury Prevention Coordinator 
Trauma_Dept@washingtonhealth.com

Additional Resources

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