Wilderness First Aid Basics Every Hiker Should Know

When you're miles from the nearest road, medical help isn't just a phone call away. Wilderness first aid knowledge can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a life-threatening emergency. This guide covers the essential skills every hiker should master.

Preparation Before You Go

First Aid Kit Essentials

A basic wilderness first aid kit should include:

• Wound care: Adhesive bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes
• Medications: Pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal medication
• Tools: Tweezers, scissors, safety pins, blister treatment
• Emergency items: Emergency blanket, whistle, headlamp
• Personal medications: Any prescription medications you require

Documentation

• Carry a small first aid guide
• Know the emergency numbers for the area you're hiking in
• Have emergency contact information readily available

Assessment and Decision-Making

Scene Safety

Before providing care, ensure:

• You're not putting yourself in danger
• The patient is in a safe location
• No further hazards are present

Patient Assessment

Follow the ABCDE approach:

• Airway: Is it clear?
• Breathing: Is it normal?
• Circulation: Check pulse and bleeding
• Disability: Check level of consciousness
• Exposure: Check for environmental threats

Evacuation Decisions

Consider evacuation if:

• The injury prevents walking
• The condition is worsening
• The patient shows signs of shock
• You're uncertain about the severity

Common Wilderness Injuries and Treatment

Blisters

Prevention:

• Wear properly fitted footwear
• Use moisture-wicking socks
• Apply lubricant to friction-prone areas

Treatment:

• Clean the area
• If the blister is small, cover with moleskin or tape
• If large or painful, drain with a sterilized needle while keeping the skin intact
• Cover with antiseptic and a bandage

Sprains and Strains

Remember RICE:

• Rest the injured area
• Ice (if available) for 20 minutes
• Compress with an elastic bandage
• Elevate above heart level

Cuts and Scrapes

1. Clean thoroughly with clean water
2. Remove any debris
3. Apply antiseptic
4. Cover with a sterile dressing
5. Change dressing daily or when soiled

Fractures

Signs:

• Pain, swelling, deformity
• Inability to use the injured part
• Grinding sensation or sound

Treatment:

• Immobilize the injury with a splint
• Pad for comfort
• Check circulation beyond the injury
• Evacuate for medical care

Environmental Emergencies

Hypothermia

Signs:

• Shivering
• Slurred speech
• Confusion
• Drowsiness

Treatment:

• Remove wet clothing
• Add dry layers
• Provide warm, sweet drinks if conscious
• Share body heat
• Seek shelter from wind and cold

Heat Illness

Prevention:

• Stay hydrated
• Rest in shade during peak heat
• Wear appropriate clothing

Treatment for heat exhaustion:

• Move to shade
• Cool with water
• Rehydrate with electrolytes
• Rest

Treatment for heat stroke (medical emergency):

• Rapid cooling
• Immediate evacuation

Lightning Safety

• Avoid high places and open areas
• Stay away from isolated trees
• In a forest, stay near shorter trees
• If caught in the open, crouch low with feet together

Conclusion

Wilderness first aid knowledge is an essential skill for any hiker. Take a formal wilderness first aid course if possible, practice your skills regularly, and always carry appropriate supplies. Remember that prevention is the best medicine—proper planning, appropriate gear, and good judgment will help you avoid many wilderness emergencies.

This guide provides basic information but is not a substitute for proper training. Consider taking a Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course before embarking on remote adventures.