In an emergency
Stop Severe Bleeding
Heavy bleeding can be life-threatening — act fast.
1
Call 911
Get help coming. Put on gloves or use a barrier between you and the blood if you have one.
2
Press hard, right on it
Push firmly on the wound with a clean cloth or gauze. Don't peek and don't let up.
3
Keep the pressure on
If blood soaks through, add more cloth on top — don't remove the first layer. Hold steady pressure until help takes over.
4
Arm or leg won't stop?
If it's soaking through and won't slow down, a tourniquet placed high and tight above the wound can save a life — if you have one and know how to use it.
Firm, steady pressure stops most bleeding — your hands are the fastest tool in the room.