In a proactive effort to strengthen emergency preparedness across local schools, Plumas County Public Health Agency, Seneca Healthcare District, Peninsula Fire Department and Plumas County Sheriff’s department partnered to support local schools around the Chester/Lake Almanor Basin. Seneca Healthcare District has purchased “Stop The Bleed” trauma kits for local schools including Chester Elementary, Chester Junior/Senior High School, and Plumas Charter School.
While the initiative was initially inspired by outcomes from two active-shooter drills, the kits are designed to be used in any instance of uncontrolled bleeding—from accidents and natural disasters to other medical emergencies—and to bolster emergency supplies until first responders arrive.
The Public Health Agency and Seneca Healthcare District worked closely with school administrators and emergency services to determine appropriate allocation of the kits, basing distribution on the student population at each site. The goal is to ensure that every school is equipped with life-saving tools and ready to respond quickly and effectively in the critical minutes following a traumatic injury.
“This collaboration is about readiness and resilience,” said Charles Schrammel, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for Plumas County Public Health Agency. “We’ve worked hard to ensure that every kit is placed where it can do the most good. It’s a simple step that could save lives.”
“We hope these kits are never needed,” said Chelssa Outland, Director of Marketing and Communications at Seneca Healthcare District, “but having them on hand—and knowing how to use them—can make all the difference in a life-threatening situation. Our schools are now better equipped to handle emergencies while awaiting professional medical help.”
Each “Stop The Bleed” kit includes tourniquets, wound-packing gauze, trauma shears, gloves, instructional materials, and more.
The Healthcare District’s investment reflects a broader commitment to community health and safety, aligning with national efforts to improve trauma readiness in schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
About Seneca Healthcare District: Hospital and Walk-in Clinic, Seneca’s mission is to provide community members and visitors with outstanding healthcare services and quality care through dedicated and compassionate staff, providers, and innovative technology. Our commitment to the communities around us is to create an atmosphere that promotes wellness and healing.
