Average EMS response time is 8 minutes across the board. Give or take a minute depending on you distance from the 911 center. So how long does it take on average to bleed out from a femoral artery? About 4 minutes. Do the math and you’ll more than likely be dead by the time EMS is on the scene. Remember the time chooses you, so be prepared to respond. You’re the stop-gap for your life and possibly the life of another until emergency personnel arrive on scene.

Because of this you should really be CPR certified and carry a tourniquet at a minimum. Red Cross offers great CPR and basic first aid classes.

As far as carrying a tourniquet, there are a host of options available which causes a lot of debate as far as which one is better. There is no reason to get all wrapped up in the drama of which is best. YOU determine that by getting training and practicing. For me the SWAT-T Tourniquet is what I carry on my person daily.

It’s a low profile tourniquet that is easy to carry in my back pocket every day. It has become a routine every morning when loading up for the day. It is a multi-purpose tourniquet as it can also be used to secure a pressure dressing or a splint. Have a K9 or small children? It can be used on them too due to the stretch, wrap and tuck design.

What is your preferred tourniquet for everyday carry?

An honorable mention:

Spyderco Delica 4 (partially serrated). Having a partially serrated knife is a force multiplier in a medial emergency where you may need to cut yourself or someone else free from a seatbelt or to cut clothing to render medical aid. The partially serrated Spyderco Delica 4 is a durable lightweight folder that is easy to carry everyday. Pair this knife with a tourniquet and you’re a hell of a lot more prepared than most.

This article was originally published on the Loadout Room and written by  Scott Witner.