PREPARATION FOR THE WILDERNESS
PREPARATION FOR THE WILDERNESS

PREPARATION FOR THE WILDERNESS

Recently I had the opportunity to attend part of a wilderness first aid (WFA) class. Upon reflection I think I have certified through a WFA class at least 10 times and have helped teach the class twice. It is great information for anyone who spends time in the wilderness for recreation (activities like hunting, camping, fishing, hiking, photography, birding, and more). And the information can be useful in non-wilderness environments as well. The material and the attendant skills are perishable so it is good to review and renew it regularly.

Spending time in the outdoors is relaxing, has a number of health benefits, and can increase self-confidence (among many other positives). But sometimes bad things can happen. Simple things like stubbing your toe or twisting your ankle, while painful, are not necessarily life-threatening. Hypothermia, bleeding, or falls can often be prevented with some awareness and a good first aid class and kit can equip you to handle an emergency. Even a standard first aid class can build confidence and the ability to deal with a situation.

One of the things a good WFA class will prepare you for is building your own first aid kit. It does not have to be huge and a little creativity can help you improvise. It is impossible to carry equipment for every situation (short of driving an ambulance) but a small kit can be used to treat a wide variety of problems. Just a few extra ounces of “stuff” and the training to use it can make all the difference.

There are many organizations (depending on your geographic area) that will offer first aid classes. Of course there are organizations like American Red Cross, American Heart Association, National Safety Council, and more. There may be local groups that teach these kinds of classes as well, such as fire departments, search & rescue teams, community colleges, and adult education outlets. I would be really surprised if there was not any option within a reasonable distance. Often these classes, especially “basic first aid”, are no cost or low cost. More advanced classes may be more expensive, but what is the value of your life or that of a loved one?

It is always the hope that these skills and information are not needed. Sometimes nothing more than a calming word and maybe a bandaid are all that is needed. But it is a good idea to have these tools in your “wilderness toolbox” just in case.