Younger hikers and parents should always be prepared for any excursion, and that includes knowing first aid tips when in the wilderness. Whether it is dealing with minor scrapes or handling larger injuries, the more you know when on an exploration trip, the safer you’ll be. Here are five tips to follow and share with your kids.

Wilderness First-Aid Tips

1. Burns

Sometimes during an exploration excursion, you will take a break to build a fire for warmth or to make a meal. Burns happen when handling fires. Treat affected areas with cool, clean water to slow the burning process. Prevent infection by cleaning the cooled burn with a mild antibacterial soap. Apply antibiotic ointment and clean gauze, and take ibuprofen for any pain.

2. Wounds

Cuts, scrapes, and other wounds are common on hikes. To stop the bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound with clean gauze and elevate the area above the heart. Rinse the wound with clean water and cover the area with antibiotic ointment followed by clean gauze or a bandage. Check on the wound for signs of infection such as heat, pain, or excessive redness.

3. Sprains & Strains

When sprains or strains happen while hiking, find out if the injured person can put any weight on the area. If so, wrap the knee, ankle, or wrist with athletic tape or an ace bandage for compression that also still allows circulation. Take frequent rests and apply ice every 20 minutes with a 15-minute break between applications. Keep injured areas elevated.

4. Unusable Injuries

The last thing anyone wants in the middle of an exciting exploration trip is a broken bone or a joint injury that can’t bear weight. Splint and pad the area in a comfortable position. Use a hiking pole, paddle, or create a walking stick from a fallen branch to keep all pressure off the spot. If the injured loses feeling, loosen the wrap.

5. Dehydration

Noticing the signs of dehydration will help prevent a mild case from becoming more serious. Typically, you’ll feel mild thirst and have dry lips. As it worsens, you will feel fatigue, joint soreness, and irritability. If you haven’t had to use the bathroom in four hours or your urine isn’t pale yellow to clear, you are probably dehydrated.

At Camp Killooleet, their staff is trained in essential first-aid procedures, ensuring the safety of your kids. They offer children ages nine through 14 exciting outdoor adventures at their overnight summer camp in the beautiful Green Mountain National Forest of Hancock, VT. Whether your child is interested in exciting exploration excursions or they are ready to expand their skills in sports, music, and studio art, this children’s camp is a top choice. Family-owned and -operated for more than 60 years, their program helps build confidence, independence, and friendships that last a lifetime. Call (802) 767-3152 or visit their website to learn more about their offerings.