In the face of an emergency in the great outdoors, knowing how to react effectively can make the difference between life and death. When an accident occurs far from help, the ability to provide quick first assistance is crucial. Whether it's to stop a hemorrhage, revive a victim in distress, or transport an injured person, rescue procedures have essential skills for any adventurer, survivalist, or field professional.
In this article, discover the life-saving actions and the protocols to follow to assist a victim while waiting for help. Learn how to manage an accident in the wilderness, stabilize an injured person, alert the emergency services, and ensure a safe evacuation.
Control a Hemorrhage: Stop the Bleeding and Stabilize the Victim
Severe hemorrhages are among the leading causes of death in isolated environments. Losing more than a liter of blood can lead to a severe shock and endanger life within minutes. In the face of a significant wound, it is essential to act quickly to stop the bleeding and prevent excessive blood loss.
Direct pressure is the most effective technique to limit bleeding and should be applied immediately using a clean cloth or a dressing. A hemostatic bandage can enhance the compression if the bleeding persists. In cases of massive bleeding, the use of a tourniquet becomes necessary to prevent irreversible blood loss. Placed above the wound, it should be tightened carefully and loosened gradually if help takes time to arrive. Poor management of bleeding can lead to shock and require rapid resuscitation.
Management of Allergic Reactions in Isolated Environments
An allergic reaction can quickly become a life-threatening emergency, especially in the case of anaphylactic shock. Insect stings, toxic plants, or certain foods can trigger severe reactions. Symptoms include swelling, difficulty breathing, rashes, and, in the most critical cases, loss of consciousness.
In the absence of immediate help, administering an antihistamine may slow the reaction, but only an injection of epinephrine (EpiPen) can save the life of a person in anaphylactic shock. It is therefore crucial that anyone prone to severe allergies carries an epinephrine auto-injector and that their travel companions know how to use it. In case of respiratory distress, keeping the victim in a sitting position and encouraging them to breathe calmly until help arrives is essential.
Management of Head and Spinal Injuries
Traumas to the head and spine can have devastating consequences, ranging from concussion to partial or total paralysis. A fall, an all-terrain vehicle accident, or a violent impact can damage the spinal cord and the brain, and improper handling of the victim can worsen the injuries.
If a head or spinal injury is suspected (loss of sensation, intense pain, inability to move certain limbs, confusion, or loss of consciousness), it is crucial not to move the victim, except in cases of imminent danger. Stabilizing the head and neck with natural objects (stones, bags) or rolled-up clothing can prevent any involuntary movement. Specialized care is essential, and alerting emergency services must be the absolute priority.
Resuscitation and Management of Respiratory Problems
The respiratory arrest is an extreme emergency situation that requires immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Prolonged lack of oxygen leads to irreversible brain damage and significantly decreases the victim's chances of survival. Performing CPR involves alternating chest compressions with breaths to restore blood circulation. If an obstruction blocks the airways, the Heimlich maneuver can help expel the object causing the blockage and restore normal breathing.
Respiratory problems are not only related to mechanical obstructions. At high altitude, acute mountain sickness can cause respiratory distress and put a hiker's life in danger. The best solution remains an immediate descent to a lower altitude and sufficient hydration to limit the effects of hypoxia. A victim lacking oxygen should be placed in a semi-sitting position to facilitate breathing and monitored continuously for any deterioration.
The Importance of Stabilization Before Evacuation
An injured victim must be stabilized before being moved. Improper handling can worsen injuries and harm their chances of survival. A poorly managed fracture can lead to complications and require immediate immobilization. An improvised splint made from branches or clothing can prevent excessive movement of the affected limb. For sprains, compression and application of cold reduce inflammation and limit pain.
"Head injuries and spinal injuries are particularly critical. If a spinal injury is suspected, the victim should not be moved, except in cases of immediate danger such as a fire or a landslide. It is crucial to keep the head and neck aligned with the body to minimize the risk of neurological damage. Stabilizing an injured person maximizes their chances of survival while waiting for a safe evacuation."
Evacuating a Victim Safely: Transport Techniques
Transporting an injured person in a hostile environment presents a real challenge. The method of evacuation depends on the severity of the injury, the distance to be covered, and the available resources. When movement is necessary, an improvised stretcher made of sturdy branches and jackets can be used to support an injured person without worsening their condition. If the victim is able to walk but with difficulty, a shoulder carry can provide support on rough terrain. For prolonged evacuation, making a stretcher or using a makeshift sled is preferable to conserve the rescuer's energy and limit the injured person's discomfort.
In some cases, immediate evacuation is impossible. It is then essential to shelter the victim, warm them if necessary, and provide them with water to prevent dehydration. An injured person must be monitored continuously to detect any deterioration in their condition and adjust first aid measures accordingly.
Report Your Location to Be Rescued Quickly
When evacuation is not possible, it is necessary to alert the rescue services and indicate your position in a visible manner. The universal distress signals help to attract the attention of rescue teams. Repeated whistle blows, light flashes, or the formation of visible signs on the ground are effective methods to be spotted more quickly.
Rescue services can take several hours, or even several days, to arrive depending on the location and weather conditions. It is therefore crucial to have a means of communication such as a GPS distress beacon or a survival radio to maximize the chances of being located. A well-prepared hiker understands the importance of anticipating critical situations and knows how to ensure their survival until help arrives.
Conclusion
Rescue operations in isolated environments must have immediate responsiveness and a thorough knowledge of first aid gestures. Every second counts when it comes to stopping a hemorrhage, resuscitating a victim, or organizing an evacuation. A poor decision can worsen an injury and reduce the chances of survival.
Knowing how to react in the wild is a priority for any adventurer or survivalist. The training in first aid skills and the right equipment make all the difference when facing the unexpected. Good first aid supplies and thorough preparation allow one to face the worst situations with serenity.
