Essential First Aid Tips for Outdoor Adventures

Exploring the great outdoors can be exhilarating, but it also comes with potential risks. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or boating, being prepared with basic first aid knowledge can make all the difference in an emergency. Here are some essential first aid tips for outdoor adventures:

1. Pack a First Aid Kit

Your kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, tweezers, pain relievers, and a thermal blanket. If you have specific medical conditions, carry necessary medications as well.

2. Learn First Aid and CPR

Knowing how to perform CPR is proven to save lives. In addition many companies such as Rescue Blue, offer remote area First Aid courses. These courses equip you with the knowledge on how to preform basic life support in austere and remote environments.

3. Handle Cuts and Wounds Properly

Clean wounds with antiseptic, apply pressure to stop bleeding, and cover with a sterile bandage to prevent infection. Remember as a general rule, if it’s clear and clean and you would drink it, you can wash a wound with it (but this doesn’t include alcohol!)

4. Recognise and Treat Heat-Related Illnesses

Hydrate regularly, wear protective clothing, and move to shade if experiencing dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating. Always have some electrolyte type drink handy. This may be as simple as carrying some Hydralyte tablets.

5. Be Prepared for Bites

If bitten by an spider or snake, remain calm, immobilise the affected patient, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage and splint and seek medical help immediately.

6. Let people know where you are going

When adventuring also ways set a SAR (Search and Rescue) time with a reliable contact that isn’t coming along. For example if you are going on a 7 hour hike, set you SAR time at 11 hours. If your contact hasn’t heard from you by then they will alert authorities.

7. Always carry a PLB

The moment you step out into the wilderness make sure you have a working PLB (Personal Locator Beacon). If the worst happens, you will activate the PLB and help will soon arrive.

Being equipped with these first aid basics can help ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure. For more information join one of our Remote Area First Aid Courses to build confidence in handling emergencies. Contact us to enquire.