Slide 7: Before the Trip
Preparation is one of the most important parts of staying safe outdoors. Many emergencies can
be avoided by taking the time to plan your trip carefully and making sure you’re properly
equipped.
Route Planning involves choosing a trail or area suitable for your group’s skill level, identifying
landmarks, estimating the duration, and knowing possible exit points. Always inform someone
not on the trip about your route and expected return time.
Weather Check is crucial before departure. Conditions can change quickly in the wild, so
monitor forecasts for rain, extreme heat, wind, or cold. Adjust your clothing and gear
accordingly, and delay the trip if severe weather is expected.
Packing Essentials ensures you're prepared for both expected conditions and unexpected
events. Bring enough water, high-energy food, extra clothing layers, a first aid kit, flashlight,
map or GPS, and emergency tools like a whistle or multitool.
Slide 8: During the Trip
Once the trip begins, staying alert and following safety guidelines is essential. Responsible
behavior on the trail helps prevent accidents and ensures everyone enjoys the experience
safely.
Follow Trail Rules by staying on marked paths, respecting wildlife, and avoiding shortcuts that
can damage the environment or lead to dangerous areas. Trail markers exist to guide you away
from hazards and keep nature protected.
Use the Buddy System by always hiking or moving in pairs or small groups. This system
ensures that no one is ever alone in case of injury, getting lost, or encountering an emergency.
Check on each other regularly and stick together.
Hydration and Nutrition are vital during physical activity. Drink small amounts of water often,
even before feeling thirsty, and eat light snacks to keep your energy up. Dehydration and low
energy can lead to fatigue and poor decision-making.
Sun Protection includes wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect your skin and
eyes. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and wear light, breathable clothing to avoid overheating
and sunburn.
Slide 9: Emergency Readiness
Even with preparation, emergencies can happen. Knowing how to respond quickly and calmly
can make a major difference in staying safe and helping others during outdoor incidents.
How to Signal for Help is a critical survival skill. Use a whistle (3 blasts), mirror flashes, bright-
colored clothing, or draw large symbols (like SOS) on open ground. If you have a phone signal,
contact emergency services with your location details. Make yourself visible to rescuers by
staying in clearings and near trails.
Staying Calm and Alert is essential in emergencies. Panic can lead to poor decisions and
make the situation worse. Take a moment to breathe, assess the scene, check for injuries, and
think before acting. If you’re with a group, communicate clearly and assign tasks to ensure
everyone contributes to safety.
Basic Emergency Tips:
● Stay in one place unless it’s unsafe
● Use available resources wisely (ration food, conserve battery)
● Keep warm and dry, especially at night
● Continue trying to make contact every hour
Slide 10: Common Injuries in the Outdoors
Outdoor activities expose people to a variety of physical risks, especially when navigating rough
terrain or extreme conditions. Knowing the most common injuries and how to respond to them is
essential for any outdoor trip.
Sprains occur when ligaments (the tissues connecting bones) are stretched or torn, usually
from twisting an ankle or falling awkwardly. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and limited
movement. The RICE method—Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation—is the standard first
response.
Wounds and Cuts are common from sharp rocks, branches, or falls. Open wounds should be
cleaned with clean water, disinfected if possible, and covered with a sterile bandage to prevent
infection. Applying pressure can help stop bleeding.
Insect Bites and Stings from mosquitoes, bees, ants, or spiders can cause swelling, itching, or
allergic reactions. Wash the area, apply a cold compress, and monitor for signs of a severe
reaction like difficulty breathing or dizziness.
Heat Exhaustion is caused by too much heat and not enough hydration. It leads to heavy
sweating, weakness, and dizziness. Move the person to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing,
and give them cool water slowly. Untreated, it can lead to heatstroke.
