Fall Hiking First Aid

There really isn’t anything like it - being outdoors in the crisp, clean air of fall surrounded by the bright reds, yellow’s and orange’s of fall foliage. Many people like to head out for fall hikes because the beautiful scenery. However, even the most seasoned mountain climber should arm themselves with first aid supplies when venturing out into the great beyond.

Packing a first aid kit can sometimes be difficult because you want to be prepared, but you’re also trying to conserve space – no one wants a heavy pack to lug around with them! We recommend buying a pre-packaged first aid kit but also personalizing it by adding any specialty items you might need during your adventures! If you plan on venturing out for a longer or even multi-day trip, it is never a bad idea to carry a bigger first aid kit, especially if you will be further from help.

Here are some basic essentials Mountainside Medical suggests for your first aid kit:

- Gauze pads or rolls - Medical Tape - Moleskin - Butterfly Bandages - Adhesive Bandages - Disinfecting Ointment - Over-the-counter pain medication - Tweezers, small scissors and safety pins - Medical Exam gloves - Anti-diarrheal medication - Zip-lock baggies - First Aid booklet

Even with the best, well equipped first aid kit, it is also important to know how to use everything that you will be carrying. Mountainside Medical Equipment also recommends taking a first aid class. This will teach you how to properly care for minor injuries.

This weekend, grab your new first aid kit and enjoy all of the scenery that autumn has to offer! If you plan on being in our area here in upstate New York, click on the link below for all things hiking in the Adirondacks.

http://www.adirondack.net/hiking/