Bystander Care Program

The Bystander Care Program has been developed by the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems through a grant from the Maryland Highway Safety Office.  While open to anyone over 18, the class is intended for fleet operators and others who spend a great deal of their time on the road.  The purpose is to teach those who arrive first on the scene of a vehicle accident what to do before E.M.S. and rescue crews arrive.  By the end of the program, participants will be able to meet five objectives.  They are:

  1. Recognize an emergency
  2. Call for assistance
  3. Keep themselves and the scene safe
  4. Recognize and assist respiratory distress
  5. Recognize and control severe bleeding

The class length is approximately three hours.  Classes should be limited to 10-12 students per instructor.  About 2/3 of the time is spent in lecture/discussion with the balance devoted to practical skills training. There is a 10 question quiz at the end.  Students successfully completing the course receive a certificate of completion.  

For further information, to schedule a bystander care training session for your company or organization, or to inquire about becoming an instructor, please contact:

Al Ward, Coordinator
Bystander Care Program
M.I.E.M.S.S. Region I Office
P.O. Box 34
Grantsville, MD, 21536
Phone: (301) 895-5934
Email: award@miemss.org

Download the Bystander Care Poster