Press Release: 7/31/19. Rescue Essentials is proud to have assisted Kansai Airports in Japan with this project. 

Kansai Airports (KAP) is excited to announce that Kansai International Airport (KIX) became the first airport in the country to introduce the tourniquet, a bleeding control kit, as part of its measures against emergency situations such as terrorist attacks and disasters.

The tourniquet is designed to be tightened around the injured limb to stop bleeding that cannot be controlled by applying pressure to the wound. With a simple procedure of inserting the arm or leg through the loop in the band and fastening tightly at a point closer to the heart than the wound, the device allows users to stop the flow of blood quickly, easily and without putting too much pressure. It is expected to prevent the loss of lives caused by significant hemorrhage.

After the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, tourniquets have spread widely across the United States, readily available for any citizens at a variety of locations including fire departments and police stations. They also helped save many lives in the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013. In Japan, the Self-Defense Forces have adopted the device since 2012. Meanwhile, the Fire and Disaster Management Agency has been rolling out the devices towards 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games.

In recent years, the world has seen various forms of terrorism and disasters. To address this issue, KAP believes it is vital to be prepared for medical emergencies and reached a decision to introduce tourniquets at KIX with the cooperation of Rinku General Medical Center. Going forward, we will offer trainings on a regular basis and ensure our employees and all airport-related stakeholders are familiarized with the proper use of the device.

KAP will continue to strive for securing a safe traveling experience for all airport guests.