UKSN Bushcraft Basics: Essential Wilderness First Aid *Updated*

Embarking on outdoor adventures is exhilarating, but it also comes with inherent risks. At UKSN, we prioritise the safety and preparedness of our community members. Understanding and practising wilderness first aid is essential for anyone venturing into the great outdoors. This comprehensive guide delves deeper into essential wilderness first aid techniques, ensuring you're well-equipped to handle emergencies in the wild.

Assessing the Situation

Before administering aid, it's crucial to evaluate the scene:

• Safety First: Ensure the environment is free from hazards such as unstable terrain, falling debris, or wildlife threats. Your safety is paramount; you can't assist others if you're at risk.

• Primary Survey (DR ABCDE):

  • D: Danger – Check for immediate dangers to yourself and others.

  • R: Response – Assess the casualty's responsiveness.

  • A: Airway – Ensure the airway is clear.

  • B: Breathing – Confirm they are breathing adequately.

  • C: Circulation – Check for signs of circulation and control any severe bleeding.

  • D: Disability – Evaluate neurological status (e.g., alertness, pupil reaction).

  • E: Exposure – Expose and examine injuries while preventing hypothermia.

Equipping Your First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit tailored for wilderness scenarios is indispensable. Consider including:

• Basic Supplies:

  • Adhesive bandages in various sizes

  • Sterile gauze pads and adhesive tape

  • Antiseptic wipes and ointments

  • Tweezers and scissors

  • Safety pins and a digital thermometer

• Advanced Supplies:

  • Elastic bandages for sprains

  • Triangular bandages for slings

  • Sterile saline solution for wound irrigation

  • CPR face shield or mask

  • Emergency blanket

  • Oral rehydration salts

  • Personal medications and a first aid manual

We highly recommend that you dont carry any specialised equipment that you aren't knowledgeable, or trained in using.

Regularly inspect your kit, replacing expired items and customising contents based on the specific environment and duration of your trip.

Mastering CPR and Rescue Breathing

Cardiac and respiratory emergencies require immediate intervention:

• CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation):

  • Adults: Perform chest compressions at a depth of 5-6 cm at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. After every 30 compressions, provide two rescue breaths.

  • Children and Infants: Use appropriate compression depth and techniques based on age. Training is essential to perform these correctly.

• Rescue Breathing:

  • If the casualty has a pulse but isn't breathing, provide one breath every 5-6 seconds for adults and more frequently for children and infants.

Consider enrolling in a certified wilderness first aid or CPR course to gain hands-on experience and confidence.

Effective Wound Management

Proper wound care prevents infections and promotes healing:

• Cleaning: Rinse the wound with clean water or sterile saline to remove debris. Avoid using harsh substances that can damage tissue.

• Debridement: Gently remove foreign particles with sterilised tweezers if necessary.

• Dressing: Apply a sterile dressing, securing it with adhesive tape or bandages. For larger wounds, ensure the dressing covers the entire area to prevent contamination.

• Monitoring: Check the wound regularly for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. Replace dressings as needed, keeping the area clean and dry.

Immobilising Fractures and Sprains

Stabilising injuries prevents further damage:

• Identifying Fractures and Sprains:

  • Fractures: Look for deformity, swelling, bruising, and inability to move the affected area.

  • Sprains: Indicated by pain, swelling, and limited mobility, especially in joints.

• Immobilisation Techniques:

  • Splinting: Use rigid materials like sticks, trekking poles, or rolled-up clothing. Place padding between the splint and skin to enhance comfort.

  • Application: Secure the splint above and below the injury site without restricting blood flow. Regularly check for signs of impaired circulation, such as numbness or discolouration.

Addressing Wilderness-Specific Injuries

Outdoor environments present unique challenges:

• Blisters: Prevent by wearing well-fitted footwear and moisture-wicking socks. If blisters form, clean the area, apply a protective dressing, and avoid popping them to reduce infection risk.

• Insect Bites and Stings: Clean the area, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and monitor for allergic reactions. Carry antihistamines for mild reactions and be prepared to use an adrenaline auto-injector if prescribed for severe allergies.

• Heat-Related Illnesses:

  • Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, and nausea. Move to a cool place, hydrate, and rest.

  • Heatstroke: A medical emergency characterised by confusion, high body temperature, and absence of sweating. Initiate cooling measures immediately and seek emergency assistance.

• Cold-Related Illnesses:

  • Hypothermia: Signs include shivering, slurred speech, and confusion. Gradually warm the person using blankets and warm fluids. Avoid rapid rewarming, especially of extremities.

  • Frostbite: Affects extremities exposed to cold. Rewarm gently using body heat; avoid rubbing the affected area.

Ensuring Effective Communication and Evacuation

In emergencies, prompt communication is vital:

• Emergency Plans: Share your itinerary with a trusted person before your trip. Establish check-in times and contingency plans.

• Signalling for Help:

  • Whistle: Three short blasts signal distress.

  • Mirror: Reflect sunlight to attract attention.

  • Flares or Signal Fires: Use in open areas to increase visibility.

• Navigation Tools: Carry a map, compass, and GPS device. Familiarise yourself with the terrain and have a planned evacuation route.

Preventative Measures and Continuous Learning

Proactive steps enhance safety:

• Education: Participate in wilderness first aid courses to stay updated on best practices.

• Physical Preparation: Maintain fitness levels appropriate for your planned activities. Strength and flexibility can prevent injuries.

• Environmental Awareness: Research the flora, fauna, and climate of your destination. Knowing potential hazards, such as toxic plants, allows for better preparation and response.

Building a Supportive Community

Sharing experiences fosters collective growth:

• UKSN Events: Engage in our community events to practise skills and learn from seasoned members.

• Knowledge Sharing: Share your first aid experiences and insights on our forum and Facebook Group. Discussing real-life scenarios enhances learning and preparedness.

• Mutual Assistance: Participate in UKSN Charters, our member-run mutual assistance groups. Collaborating with others ensures support during both routine outings and unexpected emergencies.

Conclusion

Wilderness first aid is an essential skill for anyone venturing into the outdoors, whether you're hiking, camping, practising bushcraft, or taking part in UKSN events. Being prepared can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a life-threatening situation. By equipping yourself with the right knowledge, carrying a well-stocked first aid kit, and staying vigilant in assessing risks, you enhance both your own safety and that of your group.

At UKSN, we believe that learning these skills is not just about individual preparedness but also about fostering a strong, capable community. Whether you’re attending our workshops, taking part in mutual assistance Charters, or sharing experiences with fellow members, your knowledge and contributions help build a more resilient outdoor community.

If you haven't already, consider taking a wilderness first aid course to gain hands-on experience. And remember, the best time to prepare for an emergency is before one happens.

Have you ever had to use first aid in the wilderness? Share your experiences in the UKSN community—we’d love to hear your stories and insights!