First Aid on the Trail

Gareth    Planning    

If anything can go wrong, it will. Murphy’s Law applies doubly on the trail. Anyone who chooses to leave the comforts of civilization without basic first aid knowledge and a serviceable first aid kit is on a fool’s errand.

When things go wrong in the wilderness, they go wrong quickly and emphatically. A simple slip or fall could become a matter of life and death. Cheap or ill fitting outdoor clothing can add to any disastrous circumstances by aiding the onset of hypothermia. Learning first aid is essential for any hiker.

Check local resources for instruction on first aid. Police or fire stations can help point the way. If there is a local branch of the Red Cross or Salvation Army, they will probably offer courses and they will cost very little if at all. If you are taking children with you, make sure they have basic first aid knowledge, too. You never know who will be hurt on a trip. If it’s you, and you’re the only member of your party with first aid knowledge, things will not go to well.

A good first aid manual is essential. You can download one for free here or purchase one from any bookstore. Read it thoroughly, and keep it in your first aid kit.

Here’s what the Red Cross recommends in a basic first aid kit:

• Absorbent Compress 5×9 dressing to cover and protect open wounds.
• Adhesive Bandages (Assorted Sizes)
• Adhesive Tape (cloth) 1” to secure splints and bandages
• Antibiotic Ointment packets (approx 1 g)
• Antiseptic wipe packets
• Aspirin (Chewable) 81 mg for heart attack symptoms
• Blanket (Space Blanket) to retain body heat
• CPR Breathing Barrier (w/one-way valve)
• Instant Cold Compress to inhibit swelling
• Gloves (large), disposable, non-latex
• Hydrocortisone Ointment Packets (approx 1 g) for external rash treatment
• Roller Bandage 3” (individually wrapped)
• Roller Bandage 4” (individually wrapped)
• Sterile Gauze Pad 3×3 to control bleeding
• Sterile Gauze Pad 4×4 to control bleeding
• Thermometer, Oral (Non-Mercury/Non-Glass)
• Triangular Bandage for shoulder wounds
• Sling or binder/splinting
• Tweezers for removal of splinters and ticks

In addition, you will need a good Swiss army knife or multi-tool. A magnifying glass comes in handy for both removing splinters and starting fires. A small mirror should be added to the kit as well. They are useful for signalling if you are lost and for administering first aid to yourself. Always carry a lightweight foil blanket to preserve body heat. If any member of your party takes prescription drugs, remember to pack them.

Remember the old adage: It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

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