Safety & Setup
First‑Aid Basics (Trail)
Skill 5 of 5
Goals
You are not trying to be a paramedic. You are trying to stabilize, prevent deterioration, and organize evacuation.
Priorities
- Airway, Breathing, Circulation (ABC). If compromised, call for help early.
- Bleeding: direct pressure, elevate if possible, maintain pressure bandage.
- Suspected fracture: immobilize; avoid removing boots if severe.
- Concussion flags: confusion, vomiting, severe headache, unequal pupils — stop riding.
- Environment: watch for hypothermia/heat illness; warm/cool gradually.
Pack you’ll actually carry
Bandage, gauze, triangle bandage, tape, small shears, space blanket, gloves, whistle. Add any personal meds.
When to end the ride
Any altered mental status, uncontrolled bleeding, suspected fracture, or chest/abdominal pain. Call it early.