Alabama Police Using Clamps to Stop Bleeding From Gunshot Wounds

— -- One of the largest law enforcement agencies in Alabama is using a new device that could help save deputies who have been shot.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office recently purchased 100 clamps designed to stop bleeding from gunshot wounds, according to ABC News affiliate WBMA-TV.

The device works by clamping the skin together to stop the bleeding. It's a change from traditional methods such as wrapping the wound with gauze or putting on a tourniquet.

“Every second counts out there,” Sgt. Paul Huffstutler told WBMA-TV. “It's something so simple but it's something that can prevent even the most complex of wounds to becoming fatal."

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office began training deputies on how to use the new device on Friday with the eventual goal to equip every deputy with a clamp.

Sheriff Mike Hale told WBMA-TV he believes the device will save lives.

“The bottom line is this - when our body is punctured in some way, it's important to stop the bleeding,” he said. “The old, traditional way was the tourniquet, but this clamp allows the deputy, with the proper amount of training, to clamp the wound, [and] stop the bleeding.”