First Aid for Non-Gun Hunting Accidents

Hunting accidents can happen without involving firearms. Knowing basic first aid can be crucial in remote environments where professional medical help may be delayed.

Here's a breakdown of common non-gun hunting accidents and how to administer basic first aid:

Falls from tree stands

• Stay calm and signal for help: Panic can worsen the situation.

• Assess injuries: If you are able, check for injuries. If you are hanging from a harness, try to reposition yourself to relieve pressure on your legs to prevent suspension trauma.

• Immobilize suspected spinal injuries: If a spinal injury is suspected, avoid moving the person and keep them immobilized until medical help arrives.

• Treat other injuries: Apply pressure to stop bleeding, splint broken bones if trained, and address any other injuries using a first aid kit.

• Seek medical attention: Even if you feel okay, it's essential to get checked out by a medical professional after a fall from a tree stand due to the potential for unseen injuries.

Knife wounds and cuts

• Control bleeding: Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or sterile gauze. For severe bleeding, elevate the injured area and apply pressure to the nearest pressure point. Consider using a tourniquet as a last resort for uncontrolled bleeding if trained in its use.

• Clean the wound: Wash your hands and put on gloves. Gently clean the wound with clean water or an antiseptic wipe to remove any debris. You can use tweezers (sterilized with boiling water or iodine if possible) to remove small debris.

• Dress the wound: Apply antibiotic ointment to a sterile bandage and cover the wound. Secure the bandage with tape or a wrap.

• Monitor for infection: Watch for signs of infection like increased pain, swelling, redness, pus, or fever, and seek medical attention if these symptoms develop.

• Seek professional medical care for deep wounds: Deep lacerations or wounds that may require sutures should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible.

Impalement injuries (from arrows or other sharp objects)

• Do not remove the object: The impaled object might be helping to control bleeding. Removing it could cause more damage and potentially life-threatening blood loss.

• Call for emergency medical help immediately: Impalement injuries require professional medical attention.

• Control bleeding around the object: Apply bulky dressings around the impaled object to stabilize it and control bleeding without putting pressure on the object itself.

• Stabilize the object: Use bulky materials and bandages to secure the object in place to prevent further movement and damage.

• Keep the person warm: Cover the patient with blankets to prevent shock.

Sprains and strains

• R.I.C.E. method: Rest, Ice (apply a cold pack if available), Compression (use an elastic bandage), and Elevation (raise the injured limb if possible).

• Splinting: If a fracture is suspected or the injury is severe, use a splint (such as a SAM splint or improvised splint from sticks and bandages) to immobilize the limb.

• Seek medical attention: Have a doctor evaluate the injury to determine its severity and recommend further treatment.

Dehydration and hypothermia

• Prevent dehydration: Ensure you carry and consume adequate water throughout your hunt. Watch for signs like dry mouth and reduced urine output.

• Treat dehydration: Move the person out of direct sun, remove excess clothing, and encourage them to slowly sip water or an oral rehydration solution. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks.

• Prevent hypothermia: Dress in layers with moisture-wicking materials and waterproof outer layers. Stay dry and active to generate body heat.

• Treat hypothermia: Move the person to a warm, dry place. Remove wet clothing and replace with dry, warm layers. Use blankets, warm water bottles, or body heat to warm the person gradually. Avoid warming limbs first and using direct heat sources.

Important reminders for any hunting emergency

• Carry a well-stocked first aid kit: Including essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, gloves, a tourniquet (if trained), splints, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

• Inform someone of your hunting plan: Let someone know where you are going, who you are with, and when you expect to return.

• Know how to signal for help: If cell service is unavailable, carry a whistle, signal mirror, or satellite communication device. Learn to use the international distress signal of three blasts or flashes.

• Stay calm and make a plan: Assess the situation calmly and prioritize the most immediate life threats.

• Seek professional medical help: Even with basic first aid, it's always best to seek professional medical attention for any significant hunting injury.