First Aid
Stop severe bleeding
You have minutes. Direct pressure first, tourniquet if it doesn't stop.
American College of Surgeons — Tourniquet
Step-by-step
Press hard directly on the wound with any cloth — shirt, bandana, hand. Do not lift to look.
Elevate the injury above the heart if possible.
Hold pressure for at least 10 uninterrupted minutes.
If blood soaks through, add material on top — do not remove the first layer.
If bleeding won't stop on a limb, apply a tourniquet 2-3 in above the wound, tight enough that the bleeding stops. Note the time.
Warning: A properly applied tourniquet hurts. Once on, it stays on until a medical professional removes it.
Related outdoor skills
Educational reference only. Wilderness conditions change fast — practice in low-stakes settings, take a certified wilderness first-aid course, and confirm regional regulations before you rely on any of these skills in the field.