How to stop bleeding? Learn the survival technique

On a trail, in a forest, at an isolated camp, or even on a regular workday with sharp tools, accidents can happen — and knowing how to stop bleeding can make the difference between safety and risk.

Mastering first aid techniques is an essential part of any survival kit for adventurers or those who work in environments with a risk of cuts. With this in mind, Cutelaria Cimo has prepared a complete guide with everything you need to know to master the technique of stopping bleeding. Today, we will show you, in an objective and easy way, how to act in situations of bleeding, whether mild, moderate, or intense.

You don't need to be a doctor to save a life. Knowing the basics, clearly, can be enough.

Types of bleeding: understand before acting

Before thinking about stopping the bleeding, it's important to know that not all bleeding is the same. Each type requires a different approach and attention to the blood's behavior, and understanding this can help you act with more precision and safety.

1. Venous bleeding

This type of bleeding occurs when there is an injury to a vein. The blood has a darker, almost wine-like color, and flows continuously, without pulsing.

Although it may seem frightening, it is usually easier to control with direct compression. It is common in deeper cuts, especially in areas like arms and legs.

2. Arterial bleeding

This is the most dangerous and requires immediate action! It comes from an injured artery, which transports blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The blood is bright red and spurts in jets, following the rhythm of the heartbeats.

Here, blood loss can be rapid and lead to unconsciousness in a few minutes. It is a situation that requires calm, focus, and more rigorous techniques, such as intense compression and, if necessary, a tourniquet.

3. Capillary bleeding

This is the mildest type of bleeding, originating from the most superficial blood vessels of the skin. It usually appears in small cuts, scrapes, or abrasions.

In this type, blood comes out in small drops, uniformly and without pressure. It is easy to control with simple cleaning and a light dressing, and rarely poses a risk.

What to do to stop bleeding: step-by-step

Below, we show you how to act practically to control bleeding in an emergency, until professional help arrives or the victim is taken to a hospital.

• Stay calm: the first action in any risky situation is to maintain control. Take a deep breath, focus on what needs to be done, and act firmly;

• Protect yourself: if possible, wear gloves or improvise protection with a clean cloth to avoid direct contact with the blood. This protects both the helper and the victim;

• Apply direct compression: use a clean cloth, gauze, or even a folded T-shirt to apply direct pressure to the cut. Press firmly and continuously. If the material used becomes soaked with blood, do not remove it. Place more layers on top and continue pressing;

• Elevate the limb, if possible: if the cut is on an arm or leg, elevate the limb above heart level. This reduces pressure and helps decrease blood flow;

• Apply a compression dressing: if you have a first aid kit, apply a compression dressing with gauze and a bandage. If not, use a clean cloth and secure it with a belt, adhesive tape, or rope, without tightening too much.

When to use a tourniquet?

A tourniquet is an emergency technique indicated only in extreme situations, when bleeding is very intense, such as an arterial hemorrhage, and direct compression is not enough to contain the blood loss.

It may also be necessary in remote locations where medical help will take a long time to arrive and the victim's life is at risk. It's important to know that, although a tourniquet saves lives, it should be used judiciously, as it can cause permanent damage if left on for too long.

How to make an improvised tourniquet:

1. Use a strong band, such as a shoelace, belt, or tape;

2. Apply about 5 cm above the injury (never over a joint);

3. Tie a simple knot and insert a stick or rigid object (like a closed pocketknife or pencil);

4. Twist to tighten the blood flow until the bleeding stops;

5. Secure the stick with another knot to keep it firm;

6. Note the time the tourniquet was applied or memorize it. Time is essential for healthcare professionals.

What not to do when stopping bleeding

It is important to avoid actions that, although they may seem effective survival techniques, can worsen the situation. Never put substances like coffee, talc, ash, or herbs on the wound. These homemade methods can cause infection and hinder healing.

Also, do not remove objects that are embedded in the injury — the object may be "holding" the bleeding, and its removal could worsen the hemorrhage.

Washing the wound intensely while it is bleeding is also not advisable; the focus should be on stopping the blood, not cleaning the wound at that moment. Furthermore, avoid tying very thin cords or using unnecessary pressure that could compromise circulation in the limb.

What to do after stopping the bleeding?

When the bleeding is controlled, it is important to continue to monitor the victim. Observe for signs of shock, such as pale skin, cold sweat, mental confusion, or a weak pulse — if so, keep the person lying down, warm, and as calm as possible.

Avoid excessive movement, especially if there is a suspected fracture or if the wound is deep. If conscious, the victim can receive small sips of filtered water, but with caution.

Even if the wound seems under control, do not hesitate to seek medical help as soon as possible. More serious injuries can evolve or present internal complications that are not visible to the naked eye. Professional care will ensure a safer and more effective recovery.

Tools that can help in these cases

In the backpack of adventurers or those who work with cutting tools, some simple items can make a difference. Check out essential survival tools for an efficient EDC kit:

• Multifunctional pocketknife with scissors or a small blade;

• Sterile gauze;

• Compression bandage;

• Pair of disposable gloves;

• Clean handkerchief or cloth;

• Adhesive tape or surgical tape;

• 70% alcohol or antiseptic solution;

• Flashlight.

For those who enjoy the world of survival, assembling a portable first aid kit and knowing how to use it is as important as carrying a reliable knife.

The right equipment makes a difference!

In emergencies, knowledge and attitude save lives — but having the right tools at hand can greatly facilitate a quick reaction. That's why we at Cutelaria Cimo offer a complete selection of products designed for those who practice survival in their daily lives, on trails, camping, in the wilderness, or at work.

Our line of tactical pocketknives and knives combines resistance, ergonomics, and durability — everything you need to face any challenge with confidence. Each item is produced with the care of those who understand that a good tool is often as essential as technical knowledge itself.

Visit our knives and pocketknives page and discover the most suitable models for assembling your first aid kit!