[Q: How are rubberbands and paperclips useful in a survival situation?<br>A: A large rubberband can be used as a small tourniquet for a digit or hand.]<br><br>I would caution you in using a rubber band for this purpose. First, direct pressure and elevation should control the bleeding for the most part. If absolutely necessary, pressure applied to an appropriate pressure point should be the next step. A tourniquet (IMO) is a last resort, should be applied only by trained persons. Generally a wide surface area i.e. cravat, provides the more appropriate pressure than a narrow rubber band. The use of a tourniquet can lead to necrosis of the area distal to the tourniquet and can also lead to life threatening cardiac arrhythmias from toxins released from necrotic (dead) tissues. Pete