Wilderness First Aid: Skills Every Camper Should Know
Wilderness First Aid: Skills Every Camper Should Know
Be prepared to handle emergencies when help is hours—or miles—away.
Accidents in the wilderness can escalate quickly, and knowing basic first aid could save a life. Unlike urban settings, you won’t have instant access to medical care, so preparation and knowledge are your best tools. Here’s a guide to essential wilderness first aid skills every outdoor enthusiast should master.
1. Assess the Situation and Prioritize Care
Stay calm and act decisively.
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Scene Safety: Ensure the area is safe for you and the injured person (e.g., away from falling rocks, wildlife, or fast-moving water).
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Primary Survey: Check for life-threatening issues using the ABCDE method:
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Airway: Is it blocked?
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Breathing: Is the person breathing normally?
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Circulation: Check for severe bleeding.
- Disability: Look for head/neck injuries or...
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Airway: Is it blocked?