Venturing deep into the woods for a camping trip, tackling a bucket-list mountain backpacking adventure, or spending several days exploring the Everglades are experiences that many people dream of and sometimes undertake. However, if something goes wrong when far from civilization and rapid emergency response care, the situation can become serious very quickly. Understanding how and when to apply first aid in the wilderness is essential for anyone exploring remote areas, no matter the destination. This article offers a glimpse into the critical field of wilderness first aid, but it cannot cover everything you need to know. Taking a comprehensive wilderness first aid course is the best way to be fully prepared for a wilderness adventure.
Differences Between Standard First Aid and Wilderness First Aid
Standard first aid involves providing emergency help to a sick or injured person in an urban setting, where professional assistance and transportation are readily available. Wilderness first aid, on the other hand, occurs in remote locations where transportation may be difficult, and access to professional medical treatment may be limited or delayed. The basic principles of wilderness first aid are straightforward: First, the caregiver must assess the situation to determine what is happening and what needs to be done. Next, the caregiver must prioritize care, addressing the most serious injuries first, and in cases of multiple casualties, determining who needs help first. Finally, the caregiver must administer treatment properly and safely. Although there is a lot to manage, with proper preparation and training, wilderness first aid can be delivered effectively to help an injured or sick person.
Basic Wilderness First Aid Kit
A wilderness first aid kit should be tailored to the environment where it will be used. For example, an injury situation in a frozen northern environment would not require insect bite treatment or poison ivy remedies. However, a wilderness first aid kit should include some basic, universal elements that can address the majority of potential needs. Essential items include:
- Adhesive bandages in various sizes and shapes for small cuts, abrasions, and blisters
- Sterile gauze pads in different sizes for covering larger wounds and stopping bleeding
- Antiseptic wipes for cleaning wounds and reducing infection risk
- Medical adhesive tape for securing gauze pads, bandages, or splints
- Tweezers for removing splinters, ticks, or other foreign objects
- Scissors with rounded tips for cutting tape, gauze, or clothing
- Safety pins for securing bandages, repairing clothing, or fastening slings
- A digital thermometer for monitoring body temperature in cases of fever or hypothermia
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions
Common Wilderness Accidents and Treatments
A wide range of potential accidents and illnesses can occur in the wilderness, but some are more common than others. Understanding these common occurrences and knowing how to treat them can make a significant difference.
Ankle sprains are a frequent issue when navigating uneven terrain. If you sprain your ankle, immediate treatment is essential to alleviate pain and manage swelling. Rest the ankle, avoid putting pressure on it, and apply an ice pack if available to reduce inflammation. Cold compresses should be applied for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours.
Blisters are another common problem, especially for hikers. Proper footwear and socks are crucial in preventing blisters, but if they do occur, treatment is similar to cuts and scrapes. Clean the area, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a bandage.
Cuts and scrapes should be treated by first cleaning the wound thoroughly to remove any foreign particles that could lead to infection. Apply an antibiotic ointment to protect against infection, then cover the wound with a bandage to shield it from the environment. Keep the wound clean by changing the bandage regularly and monitoring it for signs of infection.
Dealing with Environmental Emergencies
Hypothermia is often associated with cold weather, but it can occur even in relatively warm waters with prolonged exposure. Symptoms of mild hypothermia include a core body temperature of 90-95°F, violent shivering, drowsiness, pale or bluish skin and lips, and rapid heartbeat and breathing. To treat mild hypothermia, get the person dry and warm as soon as possible. Remove wet clothing, dress them in dry clothes, and wrap them in insulation. Offer sugary beverages to help replace lost calories and maintain their energy.
Heat-related illnesses are also a concern, especially in southern regions or during summer. If someone complains of a headache, has flushed skin, a rapid pulse, and stops sweating, immediate action is needed to prevent heat stroke. Move the person to a shaded area, remove excess clothing, and offer cool water or a diluted non-caffeinated sports drink. Fan the person to help them cool down. If their condition does not improve, seek advanced medical care.
Managing Bites, Stings, and Allergic Reactions
Insect and spider bites are common in the wilderness, making antihistamines an essential part of your first aid kit. These are not only useful for allergies but also for reactions to bug bites or stings. If the source of a sting or bite cannot be identified, clean the area and administer an antihistamine. If a stinger is left behind, remove it carefully.
Snake bites, while uncommon, are serious. The old practice of cutting a snakebite to remove poison is incorrect and potentially harmful. Do not apply ice to the bite. The best course of action is to get the person to a medical emergency center as quickly as possible. Keep them calm and contact rescue services if possible. Never make a tourniquet, cut and suck the wound, or use commercial snakebite kits. In the case of snakebites, no first aid is often less harmful than bad first aid.
Preparing for Emergencies
Taking a certified wilderness first aid course is invaluable for anyone planning to spend time in remote areas. The Red Cross offers several courses, including the Online Basic First Aid class and the Wilderness and Remote First Aid Course. These programs provide essential knowledge and skills for wilderness well-being and effective treatment of illness or injury. Additionally, part of any wilderness trip should include creating a detailed trip plan that is given to a responsible person who can notify authorities if you do not return as expected or if an emergency arises.
Lastly, joining a reliable air ambulance membership program can give peace of mind to those venturing far afield. AirMedCare Network membership providers deploy lifesaving pre-hospital care to those people who become sick or injured in the great outdoors, far from appropriate medical care. AirMedCare Network (AMCN), the country’s largest air ambulance membership provider, ensures that when you are treated and transported by their network’s highly qualified emergency medical crews, you pay nothing out of pocket for this life-saving service. Learn more on their website.
