Wilderness First Aid

Wilderness First Aid

Wilderness First Aid – Introduction

Wilderness First Aid is a set of basic skills and knowledge designed to help people respond safely to injuries and illnesses that happen outdoors, away from immediate professional medical care. This information is meant for the general public in Canada and focuses on first aid and prevention. It is not a full medical training manual but provides practical advice to keep you and others safe in remote or natural settings.

Medically reviewed by SASI Medical Review Board.

When you are in the wilderness, help may be far away. Knowing what you can do at home or on the trail can make a big difference. This guide will help you understand:

• What first aid steps are safe and effective to perform yourself
• What actions you should avoid to prevent making injuries worse
• When to call 911 or seek urgent medical care without delay

Always remember, if someone has life-threatening symptoms such as severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or signs of a stroke or heart attack, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Quick action can save lives.

This section sets the foundation for safe and sensible first aid in the wilderness. It encourages preparedness and caution, helping you respond calmly and effectively in emergencies.

Key facts about Wilderness First Aid

• Wilderness First Aid focuses on providing safe and effective care in remote or outdoor settings where medical help may be delayed.
• At home or outdoors, always assess the scene for safety before approaching an injured person to avoid further harm.
• Basic first aid skills such as controlling bleeding, treating shock, and managing fractures can prevent complications until professional help arrives.
• Avoid moving someone with a suspected spinal injury unless they are in immediate danger, as this can cause more harm.
• Keep a well-stocked first aid kit accessible when venturing into wilderness areas, including items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a thermal blanket.
• Call 911 or local emergency services immediately if the person has difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, or signs of a heart attack or stroke.
• Prevent injuries by planning ahead: inform someone of your route, carry communication devices, and know the local emergency numbers.

Wilderness First Aid – Recognizing symptoms and danger signs

In Wilderness First Aid, knowing how to identify symptoms and danger signs is crucial. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and understanding these differences helps you decide when to manage a condition at home or seek urgent care.

Mild symptoms

Mild symptoms often include minor cuts, scrapes, mild headaches, or slight dizziness. These can usually be treated safely at home with basic first aid, rest, and hydration. Monitor the person closely for any changes.

Moderate symptoms

Moderate symptoms might involve persistent pain, swelling, moderate bleeding, or a fever above 38°C (100.4°F). These signs suggest the need for medical evaluation, especially if symptoms do not improve within 24 hours or worsen.

Severe symptoms and red flags

Severe symptoms require immediate action. Call 911 or local emergency services if you notice any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain or pressure
• Severe bleeding that won’t stop
• Loss of consciousness or confusion
• Sudden weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body
• Severe allergic reactions with swelling of the face or throat
• Signs of shock, such as pale, clammy skin or rapid pulse

Always prioritise safety. If you are unsure about the severity of symptoms, it is safer to seek emergency care promptly. Wilderness First Aid focuses on early recognition to prevent complications and save lives.

Wilderness First Aid – Immediate first aid steps in the wilderness

When you face an injury or sudden illness in the outdoors, quick and safe action can make a big difference. Wilderness First Aid focuses on simple steps you can take right away while waiting for professional help.

Assess the situation

• Ensure the area is safe for you and the injured person.
• Check the person’s responsiveness and breathing.
• If they are unconscious or not breathing, call 911 immediately.

Provide basic care

• If the person is bleeding, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth to control bleeding.
• Keep the injured person warm and comfortable to prevent shock.
• Do not move them unless they are in immediate danger.
• For burns, cool the area with clean, cool water for at least 10 minutes.

When to seek urgent help

• Call 911 if the person has difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, chest pain, or signs of stroke.
• Go to the nearest emergency department or urgent care if symptoms worsen or do not improve.
• Always err on the side of caution and get professional help when in doubt.

By following these immediate first aid steps, you can provide safe and effective care in the community or wilderness setting. Remember, Wilderness First Aid is about stabilizing the person until trained help arrives.

What NOT to do in Wilderness First Aid

When providing Wilderness First Aid, certain actions can make injuries or illnesses worse. Avoid these common mistakes to keep yourself and others safe.

Do NOT delay seeking emergency help

• Do not wait if someone has severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or loss of consciousness. Call 911 or local emergency services immediately.
• Do not try to move a person with suspected spinal injuries unless they are in immediate danger.

Do NOT apply unsafe treatments

• Avoid applying ice directly on the skin for more than 20 minutes to prevent frostbite.
• Do not use tourniquets unless you are trained and it is a life-threatening bleed that cannot be controlled otherwise.
• Never give injured or unconscious people anything to eat or drink.

Do NOT believe common myths

• Do not apply butter, oils, or ointments to burns or wounds; these can cause infection.
• Do not try to remove deeply embedded objects; stabilize them and seek professional care.
• Avoid breaking blisters caused by burns or friction, as this increases infection risk.

Following these guidelines helps prevent complications and ensures the best possible outcome in wilderness emergencies. Always prioritise safety and professional care when needed.

Wilderness First Aid – When to call 911 or seek urgent care

Knowing when to call 911 or seek urgent care is vital, especially in situations involving Wilderness First Aid. Acting quickly can save lives and prevent complications.

Call 911 immediately if you notice:

• Severe bleeding that does not stop after applying pressure
• Difficulty breathing or choking
• Loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness
• Signs of a stroke, such as sudden weakness, facial drooping, or difficulty speaking
• Chest pain or pressure that lasts more than a few minutes
• Severe burns or injuries with exposed bone
• Suspected poisoning or overdose
• Seizures lasting more than five minutes or repeated seizures

Go to the emergency department if:

• The injury or illness is serious but not immediately life-threatening
• There is moderate to severe pain that does not improve with basic first aid
• Signs of infection develop, such as redness, swelling, or pus around a wound
• There is a suspected broken bone or deep wound needing stitches
• Symptoms worsen or do not improve within 24 hours

Visit a walk-in clinic or family doctor when:

• The injury is minor, such as small cuts or bruises
• You need advice on managing symptoms or follow-up care
• There are mild allergic reactions without breathing difficulty
• You require routine vaccinations or preventive care related to outdoor activities

Always prioritise safety and do not delay calling 911 if you suspect a life-threatening emergency. When in doubt, it is better to seek urgent care promptly.

Wilderness First Aid – Ongoing care and follow-up

After providing initial first aid, ongoing care is essential to ensure proper healing and to catch any delayed complications. Monitoring your condition closely helps you respond quickly if symptoms worsen or new issues arise.

Monitoring and self-care at home

Keep the injured area clean and dry. Change any dressings as instructed or if they become wet or dirty. Rest and avoid activities that may strain the injury. Use over-the-counter pain relief as directed on the package, but avoid medications that may increase bleeding unless advised by a healthcare provider.

Watch for signs such as increasing pain, swelling, redness, warmth, or discharge, which could indicate infection. Also, be alert for fever, dizziness, or unusual tiredness.

When to seek medical follow-up

• Book an appointment with your doctor if pain or swelling does not improve within a few days.
• See a healthcare provider if you notice numbness, weakness, or difficulty moving the affected area.
• Follow up if you have any concerns about healing or if symptoms return after initial improvement.

Emergency signs requiring immediate action

If you experience severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden weakness, or loss of consciousness, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. These symptoms may indicate a serious complication that needs urgent care.

Using Wilderness First Aid principles, always prioritise safety and seek professional help when in doubt. Proper ongoing care supports recovery and helps prevent further harm.

Prevention tips for Wilderness First Aid

Practicing good safety habits can reduce the risk of injuries and emergencies, especially when spending time outdoors. Wilderness First Aid focuses on preventing accidents and managing minor injuries before professional help arrives.

At home

• Keep walkways clear of clutter to prevent trips and falls.
• Store sharp tools and hazardous substances out of reach of children.
• Use smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and check them regularly.
• Learn basic first aid skills and keep a well-stocked first aid kit accessible.

At work and school

• Follow safety protocols and wear appropriate protective equipment.
• Report unsafe conditions to supervisors or school staff immediately.
• Keep emergency contact information and first aid supplies nearby.

In the community and outdoors

• Wear suitable clothing and footwear for the environment and weather.
• Carry a basic first aid kit and know how to use it.
• Inform someone of your plans and expected return time when going into remote areas.
• Stay on marked trails and avoid risky behaviours like climbing unstable surfaces.

Always avoid attempting treatments that require professional training or special equipment. If you or someone else experiences severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or other life-threatening symptoms, call 911 or local emergency services immediately.

FAQs about Wilderness First Aid

What should I include in a basic wilderness first aid kit?

A basic wilderness first aid kit should have adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, scissors, pain relievers, and any personal medications. Include items to treat minor cuts, scrapes, insect bites, and blisters. Keep the kit waterproof and easy to carry.

How do I treat a minor cut or scrape safely at home?

Clean the wound gently with clean water to remove dirt. Apply an antiseptic wipe and cover with a sterile bandage. Change the dressing daily or if it becomes wet or dirty. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol directly on wounds, as they can delay healing.

When should I call 911 or seek urgent care in the wilderness?

• If bleeding is heavy and does not stop after 10 minutes of firm pressure.
• If the person shows signs of shock, such as pale skin, rapid breathing, or confusion.
• If there are signs of a serious allergic reaction, like difficulty breathing or swelling of the face.
• If a head injury causes loss of consciousness, persistent vomiting, or severe headache.

Can I use Wilderness First Aid techniques for insect bites or stings?

Yes, you can safely clean the area and apply a cold pack to reduce swelling. Avoid scratching. If the person develops difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or throat, or dizziness, call 911 immediately. Do not try to remove stingers with bare hands; use tweezers carefully.

How can I prevent common injuries while hiking or camping?

• Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the terrain and weather.
• Stay on marked trails and avoid risky shortcuts.
• Carry enough water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
• Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.

Wilderness First Aid – Summary

Wilderness First Aid teaches you how to handle injuries and illnesses safely when you are far from medical help. It is important to know what you can do at home or outdoors to provide basic care without causing harm. Always avoid actions that might worsen the injury or delay proper treatment.

Remember these key points:

• Provide gentle care for minor cuts, scrapes, or insect bites using clean materials.
• Do not attempt to move someone with a suspected spinal injury unless absolutely necessary for safety.
• Keep the injured person warm and calm while waiting for help.
• Never give food or drink if the person is unconscious or has a severe injury affecting swallowing.

If you notice any life-threatening signs such as severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or rapidly worsening symptoms, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. For injuries or illnesses that are serious but not immediately life-threatening, seek urgent care or visit the emergency department as soon as possible.

Using Wilderness First Aid skills can make a difference in remote situations, but always prioritise professional medical help when it is available. Your safety and the safety of others come first.

Wilderness First Aid – External Resources

• Health Canada
• Mayo Clinic
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Canadian Red Cross

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or emergency care. Always call 911 or your local emergency number in a medical emergency.