So we all know how changeable English weather can be and we all know that nature can sometimes provide interesting situations which can also become dangerous if not dealt with quickly and safely. As a Walk Leader, it is imperative that we know how to deal with these situations so first aid training is one aspect of required training. Slippery rocks, boggy ground, slippery grass slopes and scree, streams turned in to rivers, flash floods etc happen in many places and can catch us unawares even with the best intentions.
There are lots of ways you can be inventive when dealing with an unexpected problem, for example a broken arm or leg. We all carry a number of items in our rucksacks and this does not always include a full first aid kit. It can be very unnerving coming across an accident victim, whether on the moor or in a road traffic accident so safety is the first thing to consider. Is the area safe for you to enter? You will be no good to the injured if you become injured yourself too and create a bigger problem for the rescue services!
Did you know that cling film is an excellent bandage? Of course!!! It is strong - we know that because when we try to rip it off the reel it refuses to rip and we then find we have a metre of it instead of a few centimetres! Not only is it strong but it is also:
but be careful not to stretch it too tight and cut off circulation!
Here are a few ideas:
There are lots of ways you can be inventive when dealing with an unexpected problem, for example a broken arm or leg. We all carry a number of items in our rucksacks and this does not always include a full first aid kit. It can be very unnerving coming across an accident victim, whether on the moor or in a road traffic accident so safety is the first thing to consider. Is the area safe for you to enter? You will be no good to the injured if you become injured yourself too and create a bigger problem for the rescue services!
Did you know that cling film is an excellent bandage? Of course!!! It is strong - we know that because when we try to rip it off the reel it refuses to rip and we then find we have a metre of it instead of a few centimetres! Not only is it strong but it is also:
- smooth and great for putting over burns to stop the air getting to them
- sticks to itself so no need for pins or velcro
- it is clear, so when the medics see it they can have a view before removing it
- it can be a pressure pad to prevent blood spillage too
- it is light so will not weigh you down - best to pack some just in case!
- it can be wrapped round quickly to hold a bone in place (eg ribs/arm)
but be careful not to stretch it too tight and cut off circulation!
Here are a few ideas:
Haha - ok, he last one was an April Fools prank but it does show how strong cling film is!
What else can we use that is not kept in a regular first aid kit?
What else can we use that is not kept in a regular first aid kit?