Wilderness First Aid

Are you current in first aid.  Technique and practices change.  We all need to be ahead of the game.

This is a fine post from Seattlebackpackersmagazine.com. 

by Tom Milne

Small pack – check. Right clothing and layers for the weather forecast (and worse) – check. Water and extra food – check. Headlamp – check. Current wilderness medical training and appropriate kit – ?

I enjoyed working as a mountain guide internationally for over a decade. A key responsibility of my job was managing the health and safety of my clients in the face of an overwhelming number of possible medical and logistical issues. Over time in the field and with training including Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and Wilderness EMT I learned how to be prepared on the medical side while balancing the rest of my duties.

Planning for the unexpected is part of every experienced outdoorsperson’s preparation regardless of destination, activity or time spent out. Common medical issues in the backcountry range from cuts and scrapes and blisters. Serious scenarios include broken bones, shock, or anaphylaxis from an insect sting. In the frontcountry we have the luxury of a rapid EMS system response- help is here within 2-10 minutes of calling 911.

To read the rest of the post go here:

If the WFR is not afforadable for you check out the Red Cross or NOLS Wilderness First Aid class.  Pricing ranges from $120 - $200.  -  Blake