First Aid

Ensuring the safety of your team

The inherent remoteness of wilderness canoeing expeditions demands that paddlers have a solid first aid background, as well as a top-notch first aid kit so team members can respond to any health situation that may arise. At a minimum, every paddler should attend a Wilderness First Responder Course prior to participation in any type of canoeing expedition. If time and resources allow, a minimum of two team members should obtain a basic Emergency Medical Technican (EMT) certification. Medical training above this level is, of course, desireable.

It is also a very good idea to pack a lightweight paperback backcountry medicine and/or first aid book with your first aid supplies. We carry, "Medicine for the Backcountry, 2nd Edition" by Buck Tilton M.S. and Frank Hubbell D.O. published by The Globe Pequoit Press, (1994) ISBN: 1-57034-002-1. The book is extremely informative, covers just about every injury or condition you could possibly run into in the backcountry, and provides great advice on the items that should be in your first aid kit. The book's many illustrations are extremely helpful as well. A book of this type is an invaluable tool that you should not venture into the wilderness without.

BEFORE you venture to remote places, be sure to seek the advice of MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS with regard to appropriate first aid and/or medical training and the components you'll need to put together (and be comfortable using) a top-notch first aid kit. Be prepared and enjoy the splendor of wild places.