Exploring the Great Outdoors in June

There’s nothing like being out in nature. However, accidents can happen, so it’s important to be prepared. Always bring essential items for your outdoor activity, like sunscreen, water, and snacks. The best treatment for outdoor injuries is prevention. While you can’t always control the surrounding conditions, you can be smart about interacting with them.

• Start with Caution: Before you head out for your outdoor adventure, explore with caution. Keep your eyes open for hazards that may cause you to slip, trip and fall. Be on the lookout for things in the water that might be dangerous.
• Use the Buddy System: Two is always better than one for outdoor safety. Never go alone and always bring a friend or family member.
• Bring Plenty of Water: The great outdoors can make you dehydrated or fatigued. Water will come in handy if you do get injured.

Treatment for Outdoor Injuries

Outdoor injuries can happen in many ways. Once an injury occurs, it is better to shift focus from how it happened to how to treat it.

• Clean the Wound: If your wound is open, you must clean it immediately. If you don’t have a first-aid kit, use your water supply to clean the affected area carefully.
• Walk Slowly: If you can get up and walk, do it slow and steady. You may have to limp a little if you hurt a foot or knee.
• Call for Help: If you have cell service, call for help. Having medical assistance come to you may be easier than finding help.

Do It Yourself Treatment

There are some minor injuries you can treat yourself rather than wait for medical assistance. However, if you’re not sure what to do, it is always best to have an experienced medical person look at your injury.

• Blisters: If treated improperly or left untreated, blisters may lead to infection. If it breaks, drain the fluid, then apply antibiotic ointment to prevent the risk of disease. Keep the affected area covered with a band-aid.
• Sprained or Twisted Ankle: If you twist or sprain your ankle, your instinct may be to just walk it off. But it is essential to evaluate the extent of your injury. Remember to R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) if you believe you have a sprain.
• Heat Stroke and Exhaustion: Heat stroke and exhaustion are among the most common outdoor injuries, and it’s essential to know the signs and symptoms. Heat exhaustion may leave you nauseous, tired, or dizzy. The symptoms can be relieved with rest, food, and water. Symptoms of heat stroke are life-threatening and may include delirium, confusion, and loss of consciousness. If you plan to be outdoors, make sure you drink plenty of water, eat small meals throughout the day and avoid caffeine and alcohol.

With summer fast approaching, it’s a great time to hit the outdoors. But keep in mind that accidents happen to even the most experienced and best-prepared outdoorsy person. It’s essential to know how to rescue yourself if you experience an outdoor injury.

Watch YouTube Video: Great Outdoors Month: What Are You Waiting For? The video below from the US Department of the Interior features thousands of places where you can camp, hike, bike, swim, and fish during National Great Outdoors Month.