How to Use First Aid When Hiking

If you know the first thing about hiking, you already have a well-stocked first aid kit with all the basics. You are prepared for cuts and scrapes, sunburns, blisters, shin splints, sprains and muscle fatigue. Make sure you know how to use first aid when hiking so you can respond quickly in an emergency. Evaluate the physical capabilities of all hikers in the party and do not push hiker’s limitations.

• Clean abrasions, scrapes and cuts with a small amount of soap and water. Alcohol can also be used to clean a cut. Apply antibiotic ointment over the cut and cover with a bandage.


• Apply a cold compress to a sunburn for a little relief or aloe gel if you have it available. Get out of the sun and drink plenty of fluids. Always keep a small bottle of sunscreen in the first aid kit to prevent sunburns while hiking on the trails and pack a wide-brimmed hat.


• Prevent blisters before they occur by wearing thick well fitting socks and very comfortable walking shoes. Stop and remove pebbles or small sticks from inside your shoes to prevent blisters. Cover blisters with bandages and place a large piece of tape over them to keep bandages from sliding.


• Use an anti-inflammatory painkiller such as Advil or Motrin and rest for the remainder of the day.


• Take the weight off your foot or leg and use elastic bandages to wrap the sprain. Ibuprofen or aspirin can help with inflammation or pain.


• Rest for the remainder of the day if you think you are experiencing muscle fatigue. Hikers walking on a long hike may experience soreness, weakness and cramping in muscles, especially if they are not in the best of physical shape. Drink plenty of water, have a meal and rest.


• Check over the contents of the first aid kit before each hike to purchase and refill empty or missing items. Learn the fundamentals of first aid for common hiking ailments. Get familiar with applying simple bandages and read label instructions on first aid products ahead of time so you are comfortable with their use before taking a hiking trip.