March 3, 2021
I’ll start with some of my own comments. I am a firefighter EMT in arguably the most hiker-populated spot in Western Wa. We cover Tiger, Squak, Cougar, Taylor Mts., Mt. Si, Mailbox Peak, and all points between Bellevue Wa. and Snoqualmie Pass. My agency performed over 350 trail rescues in the summer of 2019. Many were legitimate accidents, while still many were either preventable or the hikers or lay people were under-prepared.
- Please, while reading the ASHI article consider the following:
- Charge your cell phone fully before you leave, understand that the deeper into the wilderness the less likely you have a connection, let someone know where you are going and a close timeline when you will either return or contact them back.
- For a “day hike” still carry a light first aid kit consisting of 12 bandaids, 3 triangular bandages, gauze wrap, medical gloves, and a pocket-sized CPR mask and a whistle. Another good resource is the BSA roll kit: https://www.scoutshop.org/bsa-first-aid-roll-kit-639149.html
- Always carry an extra bottle of water.
- Always carry an extra snack.
- Always carry at least one dry shirt and a light jacket.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good tread. I see a lot of flip-flops and penny loafers out in the woods…
- Know your limits, and research your hike before you go
- Consider that even if you may not need these things, you may find someone on the trail that could use them.
Brian M Dotson
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Enjoy the ASHI article:
From: ASHI and MEDIC First Aid Blog
March 3, 2021
WHAT SHOULD I PACK IN MY WILDERNESS FIRST AID KIT?
Wilderness environments create special situations that you won’t usually encounter in an urban or suburban area. When you’re in a remote setting, you’ll likely have limited resources and longer response times for EMS during an emergency.
So, it’s important you prepare for the unknown by getting trained in Wilderness First Aid and packing the essentials. Here’s what to pack in your wilderness first aid kit.
WILDERNESS FIRST-AID KIT CHECKLIST:
Your wilderness first aid kit should include adequate supplies to cover the number of people attending your trip. You’ll need to factor in where you’re going, how long you’ll be there and any environmental conditions you may run into. You also need to know how many people you could be treated to throughout the trip.
Consider adding items like:
Oral glucose
Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Antihistamines
Antidiarrheals and stool softeners
Electrolyte powdered drink mix
Topical pain relief and hydrocortisone creams
Triple antibiotic ointment
Saline
Adhesive, conforming roller gauze, triangular, and butterfly bandages
Dressing and dressing pads
Iodine and alcohol pads
Adhesive tape
Moleskin
Soap and hand sanitizers
Tweezers, safety pins, and first-aid scissors
Non-latex disposable gloves
CPR mask or shield
Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
Sealable plastic bags
Gel pads for blisters or burns
Chemical cold and/or packs
Irrigating syringe
Emergency blanket
Additionally, each member should be encouraged to pack and carry a personal first aid kit with any high-use items (e.g. disposable gloves, bandages, quick calories and personal medications).
DOS AND DON’TS FOR PACKING YOUR WILDERNESS FIRST AID KIT
Before each trip, check the contents of your wilderness first aid kit. Restock any missing supplies and add necessary items unique to each person in your group. Opt for items that are easy to open, labeled and latex-free.
Pack items in disposable plastic bags or protective containers to ensure they’re protected from the elements.
Don’t pack items you don’t know how to use. It’s a waste of space (since you likely won’t use them) and some items can become dangerous if used incorrectly.
WILDERNESS TRAINING PROVIDES YOU WITH THE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS TO RESPOND
It’s important to have a fully stocked wilderness first aid kit. But it’s even more valuable to get trained in wilderness first aid. Your knowledge and skills in first aid care will be crucial during an emergency.
Contact your local Training Center to find a Wilderness First Aid program near you.
https://emergencycare.hsi.com/blog/what-should-i-pack-in-my-wilde
CPR, AED, First Aid