essential the complete outdoor first aid manual a lifesaver in critical moments

Nowadays, many people increasingly enjoy using weekends or holidays to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get closer to nature by hiking, climbing, or camping. While breathing fresh air, they can also exercise and relax.

However, when going out, it is inevitable to encounter some injuries or accidents. If you know some emergency measures for outdoor activities, you can better deal with these 'troubles.' Next, Codoon will introduce some emergency measures for outdoor activities.

First, remember the simple and straightforward RICE rule when injured. This rule is not only applicable to outdoor accidents but can be used in any situation where an injury occurs. Because when injured, people often feel at a loss and may even cause secondary injuries.

The RICE rule stands for Reset (calm), Ice (cold compress), Compression (press), and Elevation (raise), which are the first letters of the English words.

Reset (calm)

Calming the painful area helps promote recovery. If you need to rely on your own strength for the rest of the journey, consider the range of motion of your body and use tape or other materials to immobilize the injured area.

Compression (press)

Applying moderate pressure to the affected area can control swelling and inflammation. If pressing causes increased swelling, reduce the pressure and observe the condition.

Ice (cold compress)

Cold compresses can relieve pain and have an inhibitory effect on inflammation. However, when climbing snowy mountains, be careful not to overdo the cold compress. Instead, you can soak a towel in drinking water and apply it to the affected area.

Elevation (raise)

Raising the injured area above the heart level can help control swelling and inflammation through gravity, although it may be difficult to do while moving. It is easier to do this while resting.

After understanding the RICE rule, let's address specific issues with specific solutions:

Scrapes

This is the most common type of injury in outdoor activities, often caused by falls, slips, or being scraped by rocks. Therefore, it is important not to wear overly exposed clothing when outdoors. If injured, first clean the wound with clean water to remove sand and dirt, apply disinfectant, and then cover with a band-aid or clean bandage to protect the wound. If bleeding does not stop, apply pressure to the wound or a pressure point to stop the bleeding.

Cuts and punctures

If the wound is shallow, it can be cleaned with water, disinfected, and protected with a band-aid. If the wound is deep, it may require stitches. In such cases, protect the wound properly, then bandage or tape it tightly and go to the hospital quickly.

Additionally, if a large object is embedded in the body, do not pull it out yourself as it may cause severe bleeding. After emergency treatment, immobilize the object with a bandage or other material. If necessary, take painkillers and go to the hospital quickly.

Knee pain

Many climbers experience knee pain. It is more likely to occur when descending than ascending. The causes vary, and sometimes it is due to insufficient strength in the quadriceps muscles at the front of the thigh. If you feel knee pain while descending, use trekking poles to support yourself and descend slowly to avoid worsening the pain. Taping or using support can also be effective.

Blisters and chafing

Ill-fitting shoes or socks that twist and rub against the skin can cause blisters or chafing. The best prevention is to choose well-fitting shoes. Measure your foot size carefully and try on shoes before purchasing.

Additionally, people prone to blisters can apply tape to the soles of their feet before climbing. Anti-chafing tape is also available on the market. If blisters or chafing occur, disinfect the area and apply a band-aid.

Foot cramps

Muscle cramps cause the muscles to contract and harden, accompanied by severe pain. The general causes are a lack of vitamins and minerals (electrolytes), dehydration, or insufficient exercise, often due to decreased muscle endurance. When cramps occur, gently stretch the muscle in the opposite direction of the contraction and massage the foot lightly after the cramp subsides. It is dangerous if cramps occur while climbing steep cliffs, so it is important to improve muscle endurance regularly.

Sprains

This refers to damage caused when a joint moves beyond its range of motion. Most cases involve pain and swelling, sometimes accompanied by subcutaneous bleeding. In severe cases, ligament tears can occur, making it impossible to walk. If you sprain your ankle on a mountain, you should generally descend. If you cannot walk, you will need to be carried by companions or request rescue. The principle of treatment is RICE.is RICE.

Insect bites

In nature, there are many insects. Special attention should be paid to wasps, as their stings can cause severe allergic reactions, and there have been cases of death due to anaphylactic shock. This is especially important from early summer to autumn.

(wasps)

There are many other insects as well, so remember to apply insect repellent to exposed skin. Also, be careful with the color of your clothes and hats. Bees and mosquitoes are attracted to dark-colored objects. Being bitten by many mosquitoes or midges can also cause shock. Even in summer, prepare gloves, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or tights to minimize exposed skin.

Getting lost

To avoid getting lost, it is important to familiarize yourself with your hiking route. Pay special attention at intersections to confirm your direction. Road signs may not always be accurate, so use a map to repeatedly check your direction. If you get lost, the only correct method is to return the way you came. Retrace your steps until you find the correct path. It is extremely dangerous to proceed without any basis. Although it varies by season, it is best to descend or return by 3 PM.

Lightning strikes

Encountering lightning in an exposed mountain area is terrifying. The sound of thunder and crackling noises is chilling. At this time, try to move to a lower area. Remove any metal objects you are carrying and place them far away. If you sit on the ground to take cover, sit on your backpack. The most important thing is not to make yourself a protruding object. Check the weather forecast carefully, especially in the afternoon during summer when thunderstorms are more likely.

Altitude sickness

One in four people will experience altitude sickness when rapidly climbing above 2,500 meters, and at altitudes above 3,500 meters, people may experience headaches, fatigue, and dizziness. Altitude sickness that occurs at heights never reached before is called acute altitude sickness. Although deep breathing and acupressure can slightly improve the condition, if symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to descend quickly. Inhaling oxygen is also effective. When climbing high mountains, do not climb quickly. Hydrate slowly and take breaks while climbing.

Heatstroke

In high-temperature and high-humidity environments, when the body cannot regulate its temperature, the balance of water and electrolytes (such as salt) is disrupted, leading to heatstroke. Mild symptoms can cause heat fatigue or heat cramps, while severe cases can lead to heatstroke. Heat cramps are caused by a lack of electrolytes despite adequate water intake. The body temperature remains normal, but there is sweating. Heat fatigue is caused by insufficient water and salt intake, leading to dehydration. Symptoms include dizziness, headache, and nausea, with cold skin and excessive sweating.

When symptoms worsen, the skin becomes dry, body temperature rises, sweating stops, and heatstroke occurs. The solution is to find a well-ventilated place to lie down and loosen clothing. If the body temperature is high, cool the body with a wet towel. If the body temperature is low, keep warm. Do not drink water; instead, drink sports drinks or saltwater.

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when water intake is insufficient to replace lost fluids. Early symptoms include dry throat, dry tongue, and loss of appetite. Further symptoms include dry skin and sunken eyes, indicating dehydration. Severe cases can cause confusion, low blood pressure, and even shock. At this point, the body has lost about 10% of its fluids. Especially in summer, drink sports drinks regularly. Avoid tea and coffee as they have diuretic effects and can worsen dehydration.

Hypothermia

We tend to think hypothermia only occurs in cold winter conditions, but it can also happen in summer when exposed to wind and rain for long periods. Severe hypothermia can be fatal. Symptoms include shivering, fatigue, and impaired judgment. Do not ignore these early signs. The most important prevention is to stay dry. Choose moisture-wicking and quick-drying clothing.

Additionally, do not sweat excessively. If you feel hot, remove clothing immediately. If your underwear gets wet, change it immediately. Have detailed strategies for different situations. Frequently replenish energy sources like chocolate and sugar.sugar.

Sunburn

UV rays are very strong during outdoor activities, making sunburn easy, especially in summer when the skin is exposed or in places with strong sunlight reflection like snowy mountains. Sunscreen can be washed away by sweat while climbing, so reapply it regularly. Apply sunscreen not only to the face but also to the wrists, back of the neck, and ears.

It is also best to prepare a lip balm with sun protection. If sunburn occurs, keep the skin moisturized if it is not severe. If inflammation occurs, do not apply anything. First, cool the skin. After the inflammation subsides, proceed with moisturizing care. Additionally, snow mountains can cause eye sunburn, so remember to bring sunglasses or goggles.

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*The above content is mainly sourced from: 'Mountaineering Basics,' published and authorized by the People's Posts and Telecommunications Publishing House. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited..