Do not use your word processor's automatic absolute word counting feature to estimate the overall word count. Invariably, its word count will be to low because it does not account for the white space on partially full pages. If you wish, you may use paper clips or binder clips or rubber bands to hold your pages together. Use a binder only if you are submitting a stage play or a movie or television screenplay. Editors prefer to deal with loose pages.
Loose pages are also easier to duplicate on copier machines.
Such measures aren't really needed to protect your work. By common law, your intellectual property belongs to you at the moment of its creation when you place your words on paper or digitize them on magnetic media. It's unnecessary for most writers to register their manuscripts with the U.S. Copyright Office. Your publisher will register a copyright in your name before your book comes off press. For more information about copyrights, see Benedict O'Mahoney's The Copyright Website and U.S. Copyright Office FAQ .