Chapter 8: Outdoor Preparedness
Gearing Up for Safety
In addition to having clothing that is appropriate for the weather and terrain
you’ll encounter, it’s essential that you carry a well-equipped
first-aid kit and a survival kit. Knowing how to use these kits is equally
important.
Every hunter should take courses in first aid and CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation).
Familiarize yourself with the contents of your first-aid kit, and look through
the emergency procedures booklet supplied with most kits.
- Make sure the kit is stocked to deal with serious accidents such as major
bleeding caused by a cut from a broadhead or hunting knife. You can be ready
for these situations by adding a couple of items such as a large dressing
pad, sanitary napkin, and triangular bandage.
- The kit should be personalized for your specific needs by including emergency
doses of prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications you use regularly.
Be aware of any side effects from these drugs that could impair your vision
or other senses.
Discuss Safety Issues With Hunting Companions
In a pre-hunt meeting with your hunting companions, discuss first aid, CPR,
and other emergency plans to make sure everyone knows what is expected. This
pre-hunt discussion accomplishes three things.
- It mentally prepares everyone for accidents, which hopefully will never
occur.
- Each individual will know what the group will do if he or she is injured.
- It determines who has been trained recently in first aid or CPR.
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