First aid is first aid is first aid – right? At first glance, providing first aid in the backcountry appears to be much like it is anywhere else. But if you look a little closer and you’ll find it is quite different. When you have finished this article, you will understand how it differs and how you, as an outdoor enthusiast, must think about it differently.

Let’s start with the definition of first aid, followed by a little advice. First aid means just what it says – it is the initial help a person gets. It doesn’t mean you need to be capable of providing expert medical care across all medical disciplines. First aid is not meant to replace medical attention. It is meant to provide appropriate treatment until expert medical attention is available. The only way to recognize the appropriate treatment is to be educated on administering first aid.

When an emergency strikes in the backcountry, you may be the only care giver within many miles or many hours of the situation. Here’s the advice. If you haven’t taken a first aid class in the past 2 years, it’s time for a refresher course. Same goes for CPR.

When you’re in the backcountry, everything tends to get magnified. The landscape is appears larger, the weather feels harsher and emergencies seem worse. If you don’t have easy access to an emergency room, something as routine as a broken arm becomes a very big deal, very quickly. Meaningful first aid in the backcountry, or anywhere for that matter, requires preparation. We’ve already discussed the merits of proper training now let’s talk about your first aid gear. Having a well stocked and appropriately stocked first aid kit is crucial.

Kits designed for outdoor activities tend to include

About the Author: Chuck Fitzgerald is the owner of Arizona based BackCountry Toys, an online specialty store with the “Best Gear Out There” and dedicated to helping outdoor enthusiasts to “Get It Right The First Time” with timely educational information. Please visit http://www.BackCountryToys.com to find great gear and to receive the Fact & Tips e-newsletter, "FreshAir.” (800) 316-9055.