Being in nature is all fun and games until you come across dangerous things like snakes or other animals. Even a very experienced hiker or camper may find themselves in a situation where quick thinking and the proper gear turn the day around. Survival in the wilderness is not merely a matter of finding food and shelter; it’s also finding ways to protect oneself from harm and unexpected encounters. Whether tackling hiking tracks or camping by waterholes, having basic personal protection equipment with you can help you stay safe and enjoy the outdoors with confidence.
First Aid For Snake Bites
Snake bites are probably the most frightening thing that can happen to you in the bush, and receiving proper first aid treatment quickly can be the difference between a near miss and a trip to the hospital. In Australia, where venomous snakes are common, all hikers, campers and four-wheelers should have a special snake bite kit. These kits are not your average bandage kit; they contain specialised equipment intended to slow the spread of venom through the lymphatic system and dress the wound until a professional arrives.
The centre of this first aid for snake bit kit contains an open, robust compression bandage. Ideally, it should be an elastic material that can be wrapped several times on an arm without cutting off the blood supply. Swaddle the entire bitten limb, from fingers or toes up towards the torso, firmly and evenly. This stops venom from spreading quickly around the body. Having a triangular bandage or another piece of stretch gauze enables you to maintain pressure across joints like the elbow or knee.
Antiseptic wipes are also a must-have. Snake habitats are generally contaminated with bacteria and dirt, so wiping the area around the bite reduces the risk of infection. Some kits include a mini trauma pair of scissors to snip off clothing or obstructions without delay. A roll of sticking tape may be employed to secure the bandage, especially if the weather is damp and slippage is a concern.
Time monitoring and bite progress are crucial. Use the waterproof marker pen supplied in the snake bite kit to note the time the pressure bandage was applied and to note any swelling or discolouration around the bite. This is priceless to emergency responders on arrival. Include a rescue blanket as well; once the limb is bandaged, wrapping the patient in a thermal liner prevents shock and keeps them warm until rescue.
Regular First Aid Kit
The basis of any outdoor adventure is a good supply of a standard first aid kit. Your kit must contain adhesive dressings of various sizes, sterile gauze pads, medical adhesive tape, triangular bandages, and alcohol swabs. There have to be tweezers for splinters, safety pins to secure bandages in position, and scissors to trim dressings or clothing.
Painkiller pills, antihistamines for allergic reactions, and anti-diarrhoea medication will treat normal illnesses you might get on the trail. A quality kit has disposable gloves to protect your hands, blister plasters to prevent chafing, and a CPR face shield in an emergency. Inspect your kit every time you use it to replace expired supplies and ensure you have everything required.
Emergency Kit
Having an emergency kit in addition to your everyday first aid is an added protection. Pack high-energy food like energy bars, water-purification tablets and a compact, light water bottle. The multi-tool provides cutting, opening and repair functions, and the head torch enables hands-free light at night.
Matches in a water-tight container or a windproof lighter are handy to start a fire for warmth, cooking or signalling. A roll of duct tape the size of a matchbox is surprisingly handy, from repairing gear to improvising as splints. A whistle on your backpack alerts others in case you become lost or injured. Finally, consider a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon for real emergencies where there is no cell phone coverage.
Safety Accessories
Besides emergency and first aid packs, other safety accessories contribute to your safety in the bush. Lightweight gloves guard your hands when scrambling over sharp rocks or collecting firewood. Sturdy gaiters protect against snake strikes and scratches on your lower legs.
A wide-brimmed hat shields against sunburn and heatstroke, and sunglasses protect your eyes from glare. Carrying a good-quality map and compass, and knowing how to use them, prevents disorientation. A small bottle of bug spray keeps mosquitoes and ticks away, preventing them from biting you and passing on infections.
Emergency Tent
A survival tent is your protection from the elements if the weather turns ugly. Look for a tent that is small, light, and fast to pitch, a so-called bivvy or survival shelter. Heat is retained by reflective interiors, and taped seams add to waterproofing. A single-pole or pop-up configuration minimises hassle when pitching if you’re tired or injured.
To Wrap Up
Going into the wilderness offers fantastic adventures, but there is also a need to respect nature’s power. By including a specialist snake first aid kit, a comprehensive everyday first aid kit, an emergency kit, safety devices and a good emergency tent, you equip yourself with the best chance of coping with whatever nature has in store for you.