The importance of first aid in wilderness survival

WRITTEN BY JON

When venturing into the wilderness, it’s important to be prepared for any situation that may arise. This includes having a basic understanding of first aid and the necessary supplies to provide medical assistance in case of an emergency. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the importance of first aid in wilderness survival, and discuss some of the most common injuries and illnesses that can occur in the wild.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that wilderness survival is about much more than just staying alive. It’s about being able to take care of yourself and others in the event of an emergency, and providing medical assistance as needed. This is where first aid comes in. By having a basic understanding of first aid and carrying the necessary supplies, you can provide medical assistance in case of an emergency, and potentially save someone’s life.

One of the most common injuries that can occur in the wilderness is a sprained or broken ankle. This can happen when hiking on uneven terrain, or when slipping and falling. To treat a sprained or broken ankle, it’s important to immobilize the ankle and elevate it to reduce swelling. This can be done by using a splint or a makeshift splint made from sticks or other materials. It's also important to know how to provide pain relief by using over-the-counter pain medication.

Another common injury in the wilderness is a cut or laceration. These can occur when hiking through dense brush or when handling knives or other sharp tools. To treat a cut or laceration, it’s important to clean the wound and stop any bleeding. This can be done by using clean water and soap, or by using a disinfectant such as hydrogen peroxide. Once the wound is clean, it should be covered with a sterile bandage or gauze to prevent infection.

In addition to injuries, there are also several common illnesses that can occur in the wilderness. One of the most common is hypothermia, which occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below normal. This can happen when exposed to cold temperatures, especially when wet or windy. To prevent hypothermia, it’s important to wear warm clothing, and to have a way to start a fire and stay dry in case of rain or snow.

Another common illness in the wilderness is heat exhaustion, which occurs when the body becomes overheated. This can happen when hiking in hot temperatures, especially when dehydrated. To prevent heat exhaustion, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and to wear lightweight clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Aside from understanding the basics of first aid and having the necessary supplies, it’s also important to have a basic understanding of wilderness medicine. This includes knowing how to recognize the signs and symptoms of common injuries and illnesses, and how to provide appropriate medical assistance. A good way to learn about wilderness medicine is by taking a wilderness first aid course, which can provide hands-on training and practical knowledge.

In conclusion, first aid is an essential aspect of wilderness survival. By having a basic understanding of first aid, carrying the necessary supplies, and knowing how to recognize and treat common injuries and illnesses, you can provide medical assistance in case of an emergency and potentially save someone’s life. Remember to always be prepared, take a first aid course, and have a basic understanding of wilderness medicine. And most importantly, always be aware of the potential hazards, and take the necessary precautions to stay safe in the wilderness.