MENOMONIE, Wis. (WLAX/WEAU) – The School District of The Menomonie Area is now more prepared to deal with a threat like a school shooter. The Menomonie Fire Department showcased its “Stop the Bleed” kits that will go to all schools in the district at an event today (11/15/23). The kits are filled with the necessary equipment for treating dangerous wounds.

Captain Matt Poliak with the Menomonie Fire Department says the idea stemmed from something he saw while discussing safety with district staff, “In each classroom, they had a homemade drawstring bag full of the items that you can see up here on the table. And I just thought that was such a great idea. I spoke with Ramey McMahon, the school nurse who informed me there they had little to none of this equipment on hand. So, I took that as an indicator.”

In total, the district will have 25 kits and 7 mass incident bags. In addition to the kits, the fire department is also hosting “Stop the Bleed” classes at the schools to teach students how to apply first aid in an emergency situation.