First Aid
The world we live in now is pretty risk-averse, but being out in the mountains and in the wild does expose us to risks beyond normal day-to-day activities. I googled for ‘common wilderness injuries’ and got the following back:
Strains & Sprains: Strains affect muscles while sprains involve ligaments and tendons. These injuries can result in pain, swelling, or restricted range of motion.
Fractures: Broken bones are common in the wilderness, often resulting from falls or other accidents.
Cuts, Scrapes, and Abrasions: These are quite common and can occur from various activities such as hiking, climbing, or even setting up camp.
Heat-Related Illnesses: Conditions such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion can occur due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
Hypothermia: This can occur when a person’s body temperature drops below normal, often due to exposure to cold weather.
Abdominal Pain: This can be a symptom of anything from gas to a gastrointestinal infection to kidney stones.
Allergic Reactions: These can occur due to preexisting allergies or encounters with poisonous plants.
Hmm, well, thankfully it’s necessary to complete a couple of days First Aid training in order to complete out Mountain Skills assessment. In particular, REC (Remote Emergency Care) first aid is a training programme that covers emergency care in remote and wilderness settings.
REC First Aid focuses on teaching practical skills applicable in remote locations where immediate medical help is not available. It's about being prepared and knowing how to respond when accidents happen.
One of the key aspects of REC First Aid is the ability to perform a thorough patient assessment. This involves checking the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation, and looking for any signs of injury. The goal is to identify any life-threatening conditions as quickly as possible.
Another important skill is learning how to manage fractures and dislocations. In the wilderness, a simple slip can result in a broken bone or dislocated joint. Knowing how to immobilize the injury and minimize pain can prevent further harm.
Hypothermia and heat-related illnesses are also common in remote environments. REC First Aid teaches how to recognize the signs of these conditions and provide appropriate care.
Moreover, REC First Aid courses often include training in wilderness evacuation techniques. These skills can be invaluable when a patient needs to be moved over difficult terrain.
REC First Aid is an essential part of outdoor safety. It empowers individuals to respond effectively to emergencies, potentially saving lives. So before you head out on your next adventure, consider getting trained in REC First Aid. It's a skill set that every outdoor enthusiast should have when help is not readily available.
