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This guide is meant to be used

NOTE as a reminder only and is not a complete


guide to the recognition or management of
any medical emergency.

It does not attempt to replace the need for


first aid training or medical advice. We
recommend that you immediately contact
emergency services by calling 911 for urgent
medical needs.

Adventu
If you are in a country other than
the US, call 112 from your mobile. It
is advised to keep yourself up-to

re and
date with current first aid
qualifications.

Safety star
t here
FIRST AID
It’’s wild out there, be prepared
THE SURVIVEWARE
LARGE FIRST AID KIT
200 - Piece Kit Quality Stainless Shears &
Tweezer

600D Polyester Bag Portable and Durable

Water Resistant Bag Organized Pockets

Waterproof Laminate Bags Quality Zip and Bag


for Supplies

Molle-Compatible System Additional Space is Provided


to Add your Own Medication
and Other Items ( see more
information below )
WHAT’S INSIDE

CONTENTS
Ø 600D Polyester Bag (1) Ø Non-Adhesive Dressing – Large (1) Ø Cold Pack (1) Ø Refuge Bag (1)

Ø 6" Serrated Shears (1) Ø Non-Adhesive Dressing – Medium (3) Ø Eye Pads (4) Ø First Aid Guide (1)

Ø Tweezers (1) Ø Non-Adhesive Dressing – Small (6) Ø Nitrile Gloves (4) Ø Mini First Aid Kit (1)

Ø Adhesive Bandages: Ø Conforming Bandage - Large (3) Ø Cotton Swabs (20)

Ø Mini (5) Ø Conforming Bandage - Medium (3) Ø CPR Kit with Instructions (1)

Ø Standard (30) Ø Wound Dressing – Large (1) Ø CPR Breathing Mask (1)

Ø Large (5) Ø Wound Dressing – Medium (1) Ø Emergency Blanket (1)

Ø Butterfly - Small (5) Ø Strip Wound Closures (9) Ø Splinter Probes (10)

Ø Butterfly - Large (5) Ø Hypoallergenic Tape (1) Ø Fever Strips (3)

Ø H-Shape (5) Ø Triangular Bandage (2) Ø Splint (1)

Ø Square (5) Ø Antiseptic Wipes (10) Ø Safety Pins (10)

Ø Crepe Bandage (1) Ø Alcohol Prep Pads (10) Ø Whistle (1)

Ø Cotton Gauze Swabs (5) Ø Sting Relief Wipes (10) Ø Laminated Bag (1)

Ø Combine Dressing (1) Ø Hydro Gel (5) Ø Personalized Medicine Bags (5)
ITEMS AND
THEIR USES

6" Shears (1) Tweezer (1) Adhesive Bandages Adhesive Bandages


Shear through clothes Handle any objects too tiny Mini (5) Standard Size (30)
and even seatbelts for hands Best for use on the face Most commonly used

Butterfly Closures Adhesive Bandages Butterfly Adhesive Bandages Adhesive Bandages


Small (5) Large (5) H-Shape (5) Large (5)
Close small wounds Close short and deep Apply on cuts between fingers or For larger wounds
wounds (Add sterile gauze toes
on wound to keep it clean)
ITEMS AND
THEIR USES

Adhesive Bandages Crepe Bandage (1) Cotton Gauze Swabs (5) Combine Dressing (1)
Square Shape (5) Creates localized Protect wound from Used for deeper cuts
Works well with body pressure to reduce further harm
contours blood flow

Non-adhesive dressing Non-adhesive dressing Non-adhesive dressing Conforming Bandage


Large (1) Medium (3) Small (6) Large (3)
Effectively absorbs and Effectively absorbs and Effectively absorbs and Provides support for injured joints in
retains wound exudate retains wound exudate retains wound exudate high movement areas like the wrist,
thigh or knee
ITEMS AND
THEIR USES

Conforming Bandage Wound dressing Wound dressing Strip Wound Closure (9)
Medium (3) Large Medium Use for closure of small
Provides support for injured joints in high Helps a wound heal and prevent Helps a wound heal and prevent wounds
movement areas like the wrist or thigh. infections or complications. infections or complications.

Hypoallergenic Tape (1) Triangular Bandage (2) Antiseptic Wipes (10) Alcohol Prep Pads (10)
Keep another bandage Stop bleeding, slings, treat head Clean wounds, cuts, Sterilize equipment
or dressing in place wounds & sprains abrasions, and scrapes
ITEMS AND
THEIR USES

Sting Relief Wipes (10) Hydro Gel (5) Cold Pack (1) Eye Pads (4)
Dulls the pain of bites. Treat minor burns, abrasions and Reduce swelling and Protect, heal and
(Not for anaphylaxis) friction injuries. inflammation rest the eyes

Nitrile Gloves (4) Cotton Swabs (20) CPR Kit with CPR Breathing Mask (1)
Located in CPR Kit. Remove objects from Instructions (1) Promotes one way
Always wear gloves eyes. Apply ointments. Be up to date on your movement of air
CPR knowledge
ITEMS AND
THEIR USES

Emergency Blanket (1) Splinter Probes (10) Fever Strips (3) Splint (1)
Reduce heat loss in a Remove splinters Used to check Stabilizes injured body
person's body after easily temperature part
trauma or accident

Personalized Medicine Personalized Medicine


Safety Pins (10) Whistle (1)
Laminate Bag (1) Mini Bags (5)
Useful for slings, and Attract attention
Keep your personal Separate bags for
even makeshift stitches.
medication on hand separate medicines
They have countless uses
ITEMS AND
THEIR USES

Refuse Bag First Aid Guide Mini First Aid Kit


For the disposing of used first aid The basic first aid information, Lightweight for minor first
items treatment and instruction procedures aid situations
OTHER USEFUL
SUPPLIES Consider adding some of these supplies to your first
aid kit. They are not included in our kit as
everybody’s needs are unique.

Israeli Battle Dressing Tylenol Benadryl


Quikclot
Every kit needs one of these. Pain reliever and fever reducer Don’t get stuck in the backcountry
Great for stemming more
serious blood loss without these
VIDEO PROOF >>

Advil Self Adhesive Tape SPF Lip Balm Neosporin


the old faithful. Add a few to Great grip when you This item goes Protect wounds against
your bag. need to wrap and stick without saying infection
SURVIVEWARE
GEAR
SMALL FIRST AID KIT BIODEGRADABLE BIODEGRADABLE 4- BIODEGRADABLE
LARGE WET WIPES PACK WET WIPES INDIVIDUAL WIPES

LARGE FIRST AID KIT WATERPROOF SURVIVAL FIRST AID KIT 7.5” TRAUMA
FIRST AID KIT SHEARS

Get 15% off any of our products… Use coupon SURVIV15 at checkout
FIRST AID IN BRIEF
NOTE

This guide is meant to be used as a


reminder only and is not a
IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO TAKE A FIRST AID complete guide to the recognition
COURSE or management of any medical
emergency.

It does not attempt to replace the


Basic Life Support Flow Chart Choking Altitude Sickness need for first aid training or
Adult CPR Eye Injury Diarrhea medical advice.

Child/Baby CPR Head Injury Frostbite We recommend that you


immediately contact emergency
ABC’s of Resuscitation Poisoning Heart Attack services by calling 911 for urgent
Bites and Stings Shock Sunstroke medical needs.

Bleeding Spinal Injury Heat Exhaustion If you are in a country other


Sprains and Strains Hypothermia than the US, call 112 from your
Hemorrhage
mobile.
Burns Wound Care Snakebite
Assessment Stroke
BASIC LIFE ADULT CPR CHILD/BABY CPR
SUPPORT FLOW CHART

Check for Dangers Check for Dangers


D Check for Dangers D D
R Check for Response R Check for Response R Check for Response

S Send for help S Send for help S Send for help

A Clear and open the Airway A Clear and open the Airway A Clear and open the Airway

B Check for normal breathing B Check for normal breathing B Check for normal breathing

Give 30 chest Give 30 chest Give 30 chest


C Compressions at 100 per
Minute, followed by 2
C Compressions at 100 per
Minute, followed by 2
C
Compressions:
rescue breaths rescue breaths • Child - 1 hand
• Baby - 2 fingers
Defibrillate - attach AED as Defibrillate - attach AED as
D soon as available. Follow D soon as available. Follow THEN
the prompts the prompts • Child – 2 Small breaths
• Baby - 2 puffs

Continue CPR until qualified personnel arrive Continue CPR until qualified personnel arrive Continue CPR until qualified personnel arrive
or normal breathing returns. Monitor recovery or normal breathing returns. Monitor recovery or normal breathing returns. Monitor recovery
until responsive. until responsive. until responsive.
Index
ABC’S OF
RESUSCITATION CALL 911

A B 1. Before approaching, ensure the safety of 8. Place one hand immediately above the
yourself, the victim, and bystanders. marker, with the heel of the hand in contact with
the breastbone and fingers facing across the
2. Check the victim's response to a shouted chest.
command and a gentle squeeze of the
shoulders (see A). 9. Place the other hand on top of the first or
grasp the lower wrist with the thumb locked
3. If conscious, reassure and make the victim behind the wrist (see D).
C D comfortable. Assess the victim and treat any
injuries or illness. Monitor Airway, Breathing 10. Compress the sternum with straight arms to
and Circulation. one-third of chest depth, at a rate of 100 per
min. Give 30 compressions then give 2 breaths.
4. If unconscious, check that the mouth is
For a child, use 1 hand. Give 30
clear. Open the airway with head tilt and jaw
compressions then give 2 breaths.
support. Look, listen, and feel for normal
breathing (see B).
For a baby, use 2 fingers. Give 30
5. If breathing, place the victim in the compressions then give 2
Recovery Position, monitor ABC. breaths.

E F 11. Tilt back the head and lift the chin to


6. If not breathing normally, start CPR — support the jaw (see E). Give 2 Rescue
(see C+D). Breaths and watch the chest rise (see F).

7. Start CPR. Locate the notch where the 12. Continue CPR with 30 compressions to 2
ribs meet in the center (see C). Mark this breaths until trained personnel arrive.
notch with an index finger.

Index
BITES BLEEDING
SN
A D GS
TIN CALL 911

A 1. Place the victim at total rest to reduce the A 1. Apply direct pressure to the wound. Unless
effects of shock. If a venomous animal was an obvious foreign body is embedded in the
involved, this will slow down the wound, use a sterile or clean bulky pad and
absorption of venom. Call 911. apply it firmly to the wound with hand
pressure (see A).
2. If bitten by a snake or Funnel Web Spider,
apply a crepe bandage firmly around the 2. Raise the injured part, if the wound is on a
bite site as for a sprained ankle (see A). limb, to reduce blood flow to the area.
Apply a second crepe bandage over the
B whole limb, starting at the toes or finger
B 3. If a foreign body is embedded, apply
tips (see B). If bitten on the leg, use the padding on either side and build it up to
other leg as a splint. Pad between the legs avoid pressure on the object (see B).
with clothing/blanket. Tie the legs together
at ankles, lower legs and knees (see C). Keep 4. Bandage firmly over the padding to maintain
the bitten limb level with the rest of the pressure.
body.
5. If a large foreign body is present, use a
C 3. If bitten by any other spider, ant, or C criss-cross method to avoid pressure on the
Centipede, apply a wrapped ice pack for up object (see C). If the injury is severe or the
to 10 minutes at a time. Elevate and rest the victim very shocked, call 911. See Shock.
limb. Seek medical advice.
6. If blood leaks through the pressure pad and
4. If stung by a Box Jellyfish or sea urchin, bandage, apply a fresh pad and bandage
scrape off any tentacles and douse sting area with firm pressure.
with vinegar. Seek urgent medical advice. Call
911.

Index
HEMORRHAGE The majority of external bleeding injuries can be controlled by
direct pressure and a bandage. However, if the wound is too
severe and the bleeding cannot be stopped with applied pressure,
then (and only then) should you consider a tourniquet.

Before applying the tourniquet consider


4. Place tourniquet about two to four inches away
from the edge of the wound. Don't place it directly
C
the following:
A over the wound because the arteries upstream from
the injury will still drain into and out from the open
1. Trying stemming the blood with a
wound.
bandage and firm pressure.
5. For wounds that are just below a joint (such as the
2. Elevate the wound if possible. Often the
elbow or knee), place your tourniquet just above and
combination of pressure and reducing the pull
as close to the joint as you can (see B).
of gravity on the flow of blood in the vessels
will be enough to stop the bleeding and allow Don't leave the tourniquet on too long
clot formation (see A).
1. Tourniquet use is temporary and short-term only
3. Tourniquets only work on limb injuries, not
trauma to the head or torso.
(see C).
D
2. If necrosis sets in, then limb amputation is very
Apply the tourniquet between the heart likely. Generally two hours is considered the length of
B and injury. time before neuromuscular injury begins. However, in
an emergency situation with no medical help close by,
1. Leave the make-shift bandage on the wound you may have to make the choice of sacrificing a limb
because it will help promote clotting when the to save a life (see D).
blood flow slows down.
3. If personnel will take longer than two hours to
2. If possible, add softer material like clothing arrive, then cool the limb down with ice or cold water
beneath the tourniquet. This will result in less (while elevated) if you can — it may help delay tissue
soft tissue damage. injury and loss of function.

3. Place your tourniquet around the injured limb, 4. Mark the victim's forehead with a "T" to indicate a
between the open wound and the heart to cut off tourniquet has been applied, and also note the time
the strong blood flow within arteries leaving the when it was applied so medical personnel know.
heart.
Index
BURNS CALL 911

A C 1. Cool the injured area for up to 20 minutes using cold EXTENSIVE BURNS
water from a tap or shower (see A). If cold water is not
available, use a hydrogel product instead. 1. If the injured area is
greater than the size of the
2. Remove any tight clothing, a watch, rings or jewelry
victim's palm, cool the area
from the injured area because of the risk of swelling. briefly.

3. Treat for shock, if the victim is feeling faint or looking


Prolonged cooling of a large
shocked and needs to lie down (see Shock). If lying
area of the body can cause
down, place the injured part (depending on the location
hypothermia
of the burn) in a bowl or bucket of cold water to which
ice cubes have been added (see C). 2. Cover the injury using a
B D sterile non-adherent
4. After cooling for up to 20 minutes, apply a non-
dressing if available.
adherent sterile dressing.
If the burnt area is more
Do not apply any creams, ointments, lotions or ice to extensive, use a
any burn injury. Do not remove peeled skin, stuck-on pillowcase or clean sheet to
fabric, or break blisters. cover the injury, but avoid
any
fluffy surface touching the
5. Apply a light bandage loosely to keep the sterile
wound.
dressing in place (see D). Check bandage frequently
for tightness because swelling may occur.
3. Keep the shocked victim
lying down (see B). Call 911.

Index
CHOKING CALL 911

PARTIAL AIRWAY OBSTRUCTION TOTAL AIRWAY OBSTRUCTION


A C
1. If the person is able to breathe, speak, cry 1. If the person is unable to breathe,
or speak, cry or cough effectively, use the
cough effectively, give reassurance and stay heel of your
nearby in case any deterioration occurs. hand to give up to five separate back
blows
2. Encourage the victim to cough and to between the victim's shoulder blades (see
breathe through the nose (see A). B- Adult, C- Child, D- baby).

3. Observe the victim for any change in the 2. If there is no improvement, quickly
level of consciousness and note any changes. assist the victim to the floor and check the
mouth for any visible foreign material that
4. If the victim deteriorates, becomes can be
distressed and unable to cough effectively, removed.
B call 911 immediately. Follow advice for Total D
Airway Immediately call 911.
Obstruction.
3. With the victim lying on their back,
5. If the victim becomes unconscious, assist begin CPR with 30 compressions and 2
the person to the floor and begin CPR. Rescue Breaths. If there is a total
obstruction there may be resistance to
Never use back blows or chest thrusts on a each breath. The rescuer needs to blow
person who is able to breathe, speak, cry or harder to either force air past the
cough effectively. obstruction, or to displace it (see ABC’s of
Resuscitation).
Prompt medical treatment should be obtained
if the victim recovers and any foreign material 4. Continue to give 30 compressions and 2
is thought to have entered the lungs. rescue breaths without interruption until
Index an
ambulance arrives.
EYE & HEAD
INJURY CALL 911

A B C D A B

MAJOR EYE CONDITIONS MINOR EYE CONDITIONS HEAD INJURY


1. Assess the victim's conscious state (see page
1. Help the victim to rest in a position of 1. If a foreign body is visible on the white part 3).
greatest of the eye, it may be able to be removed (see
comfort with the injured eye closed and head C). 2. If unconscious, or not fully conscious, place
slightly raised (see A). the victim in the Recovery Position with injured
If the foreign body cannot be seen or is over side down (see A). Check Airway, Breathing and
2. Cover the eye with a sterile eye pad. Do not the pupil, do not try to remove it but manage as Circulation every few minutes.
attempt to remove any large foreign body, put a major eye injury.
pad around the eye to avoid pressure on the 3. If conscious, help the victim to rest in a
object (see B). Call 911. 2. Ask the victim to blink, or flush the eye with position of greatest comfort with the head higher
water (see D). than the restof the body (see B). Call 911.
3. Continue reassurance and check for other
injuries. 3. If unsuccessful, cover the eye with a sterile 4. Cover any wound with a sterile dressing. If
pad and seek medical advice there is any discharge from ear or nose, cover
Check level of consciousness and ensure that with a sterile dressing.
the airway is clear. An injury around the eye
may be associated with a head injury. 5. Treat for shock by covering the victim lightly
with a blanket. Stay and observe the victim until
Index the ambulance arrives.
POISONING CALL 911

A SWALLOWED POISONS
ABSORBED POISONS
1. Check for safety. Ask the victim to remove any contaminated clothing
1. Check the victim's level of and wash all affected areas of skin. Avoid contact with discarded
consciousness. If unconscious call 911. clothing and skin.

2. Turn the victim on the side to clear and Call American Association of Poison Control Centers at 1-800-222-1222
open the airway (see A).
2. Check the victim's level of consciousness, while waiting for an
ambulance
If normal breathing is absent, wipe any
burn area around the mouth with tissues
or a damp cloth and start CPR (see page INJECTED POISONS
3).
1. Check the victim's level of consciousness. If unconscious call 911.

B 3. If conscious, check for safety before


2. If unconscious, clear and open the airway, avoiding contact with
approaching the victim. Note any
contaminated clothing or skin.
information concerning the poison taken.
3. If normal breathing is absent, start CPR.
4. If the surroundings are contaminated
with poison remove the victim to a safer
INHALED POISONS
area before assessment (see B).
1. Check for safety. If poisonous fumes are present in a confined space,
Call American Association of Poison move the victim into fresh air (see B). If unconscious call 911.
Control Centers at 1-800-222-1222.
2. Once in fresh air, clear and open the airway. If normal breathing is
absent start CPR.

Index
SHOCK CALL 911

A
1. Assess and manage the injury or illness. 7. Reassure the victim at frequent intervals
but avoid discussing any injuries.
2. Check the victim's level of
consciousness. 8. Check the victim's level of
consciousness every few minutes and note
3. If unconscious: any changes.
• clear and open the airway,
• if normal breathing is absent, start CPR. 9. Maintain body heat. If cold or wet, place
a
Call 911. blanket, coat or newspapers under and over
B the victim to reduce heat loss (see B).
4. Control any bleeding.
If warm, cover the victim lightly and provide
5. Cool a burn or scald and cover any shade without moving the victim.
wound If thirsty, moisten the victim's lips or give
with a sterile dressing. an ice cube to suck.

6. Assist the victim into the position of Avoid giving the victim any food, fluids or
greatest comfort, preferably lying flat. stimulants such as alcohol or cigarettes.
Loosen tight clothing at neck and waist
(see A).
Index
SPINAL SPRAINS
INJURY & CALL 911
STRAINS
A 1. Assess the victim's level of 1. Assist the victim into a position of greatest comfort.
A
consciousness: If unconscious, clear and Raise the injured area. For a sprained ankle or strained calf
open the airway. If conscious but muscle, raise and support the limb on a pillow or rolled up
nauseated or vomiting, turn the victim clothing (see A). For an injured arm or wrist support it in a
onto the side in the Recovery Position, raised position. If the victim is visibly shocked, elevate the
avoiding any forward movement of the injured area but try to keep the victim lying down.
neck. If a helper is available, support the
head during movement (see A). Call 911. 2. Apply a good quality crepe roller bandage to support the
injured limb. Apply firm and even pressure to the injured
2. If conscious, carefully assess the part without slowing down the flow of blood. If too painful B
victim's injuries. Check first for any or swollen, use cotton wool first and bandage firmly over it.
bleeding and apply a pressure dressing if Leave the bandage in place for at least 10 minutes (see B).
necessary.
3. Apply an ice pack to the injured area. A well-sealed
3. Reassure the victim. Make the victim as
B comfortable as possible without moving
plastic bag with crushed ice or a pack of frozen vegetables
may be used as alternatives (see C). Before applying, wrap
the head. If a helper is available, ask the the ice pack in a towel and keep it on the injury for only 10
person to hold the victim's head still by minutes. Then reapply the supporting bandage for up to an
kneeling behind the victim's head and hour. When the skin has regained normal temperature C
applying a firm grip over both ears, gently (compared with the other limb), the ice pack may be
pulling to maintain a steady traction (see reapplied for a further 10 minutes.
B). Cover the victim with a suitable
covering. Keep the injured area at complete rest and arrange for
medical advice.
4. Check the victim's level of
consciousness every few minutes and
note any changes. If the victim is in severe pain, call
911.

Index
WOUND ASSESSME
CARE NT CALL 911

• Assess the injury or illness and set priorities for the care required:
1. Wash your hands and put on disposable gloves.
A • If the victim appears collapsed, see ABC’s of Resuscitation.
2. A wound containing dirt or other contaminants
should be cleaned with either antiseptic solution or • If the victim responds to your voice, obtain information and plan first aid required. Unless injury
soap and water. Dry the wound well is minor, ask a bystander to call 911.
before applying dressing (see A).
Then follow the following simple steps:
3. Avoid direct contact with the wound or the
central part of the dressing. 1. Ask the victim and bystanders for the history of the problem.
2. Ask the victim to describe the symptoms, e.g., pain, numbness.
4. Apply the dressing to the wound and 3. Check the victim carefully, looking for signs of injury or illness. Look for any of the
B immediately secure it with a bandage or tape (see following after an injury:
B).
• bleeding or a wound
5. If the dressing is accidentally dropped, apply a • bruising
fresh one at once. • swelling
• deformity (compare one side with the other)
6. If the wound has any obvious discharge present, • loss of power or function
use an absorbent dressing on top of the first sterile
dressing and bandage it in place firmly. After an illness look at the skin and note the color, whether it is hot (with fever) or cold and
clammy (as in shock).
C 7. After securing the wound dressing, remove your
gloves and wrap them with any soiled dressings 4. Refer to the relevant page for management of injury, e.g., bleeding, etc.
and put them in a plastic or paper bag. The bag
should then be placed in a covered disposal bin 5. Maintain close observation of the vital signs: Airway, Breathing, Circulation every few minutes.
or in a Hazardous Waste container (see C). Check the conscious state every 15 minutes.
8. When giving first aid to a sick or injured person • The fully conscious victim will respond promptly and appropriately.
try to minimize the risks to yourself, the victim • The semi-conscious victim may respond only sluggishly, the speech may be slurred or the victim
and any helpers or bystanders may have difficulty speaking the right words.

Index
ALTITUDE
SICKNESS
D
Altitude sickness occurs when the body reacts to an inadequate supply of oxygen due
A to thinner air at higher altitudes. The body attempts to accommodate the shortage of
oxygen through accelerated and deeper breathing. Normally, with rest and hydration,
altitude sickness will resolve itself as the body acclimatizes to the new elevation. Severe
altitude illness is relatively rare below 10,000 feet, whereas mild sickness can occur after
rapid ascent to as little as 4,000 feet.

SYMPTOMS 1. Stop and rest (see A).

Mild symptoms include headache, 2. Drink lots of fluids (avoid alcohol). (See B).
nausea, fatigue, and decreased Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the most
B appetite. 3. Take aspirin or ibuprofen if a headache is common form of altitude sickness. There is a
higher risk of AMS above 8,000 feet.
present.
Severe symptoms include
Recognizing and treating the early symptoms
vomiting, shortness of breath, 4. Descend if symptoms worsen. The patient of AMS is crucial. (See D).
severe coughing, confusion, and may try to stay at current altitude to see if his or
lack of coordination progressing to her body adjusts. If symptoms do not improve in AMS can quickly advance in severity to
complete loss of consciousness 24 to 48 hours, or if they worsen, the person syndromes known as HACE and HAPE, both of
should descend to a lower altitude and seek which can lead to unconsciousness and death:
immediate medical care. (See C)
TREATMENT 1. High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
5. Do not ascend to a higher altitude if occurs when oxygen-starved cells within
C Mild altitude sickness may resolve
experiencing symptoms.
the brain leak uids.
with acclimatization to the
altitude, but could progress to a 2. High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
6. If experiencing severe symptoms, descend occurs when uid leakage occurs within the
life-threatening condition if the immediately to 1,500 to 2,000 feet with as little lungs.
ascent is continued without exertion as possible. Keep descending until
addressing the symptoms. symptoms completely go away. Get medical For HAPE and HACE treatment, you may be
help right away, as waiting could cause given medication, such as acetazolamide or
serious issues, or even death. dexamethasone. Take pills immediately
with water.

Index
DIARRHEA
A Abnormally frequent bowel movements with loose to 3. If diarrhea continues beyond 24 hours, or is significant
watery stools is usually the result of an infection or in amount, oral sugar-electrolyte solutions, such as a
irritation (viruses, bacteria, or food poisoning) of the sports drink, are recommended. Continue fluid
intestinal tract. replacement until
weakness or mental alertness improves.
SYMPTOMS
Avoid foods which may upset the stomach, such
as dairy products, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol,
1. Frequent and/or watery stools
high fiber, and fats. (See C)
B 2. Vomiting and nausea
3. Abdominal cramping
4. Bloody stools NOTES
5. If severely dehydrated, weakness, fatigue, 1. Use of medications such as a paregoric or Imodium A-D
decreased mental alertness, and shock may occur. may help minimize cramps and reduce diarrhea. These
medications should not be used if blood appears in the
TREATMENT
stools or if fever is present.
1. Get as much rest as possible. (See A) 2. Back-country water sources may contain Giardia
C 2. Avoid dehydration (infants and children are
lamblia and should be puried before drinking.
at highest risk). Rest and plenty of fluids are
usually all that is required within the first This organism can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.
12-24 hours (unless the diarrhea is severe). Giardia lamblia is the most common form of non-bacterial
With mild to moderate diarrhea, fruit juice, diarrhea in North America. Although typically associated
diluted cola, clear sodas, or broths are good with ingesting contaminated water, it may also be found in
fluid replacements. (See B) some urban sites such as schools or gyms.

Index
FROSTBITE Frostbite is the freezing or partial freezing of a part of the body
caused by exposure, not necessarily prolonged, to subfreezing
temperatures (usually below 10° F.) The ears, face, and
extremities are most susceptible to frostbite.

A AVOID FROSTBITE
SYMPTOMS C
1. Discoloration of the skin (chalky white, yellow-gray, or gray) (See A)
1. Wrinkle your face by pulling muscles in every 2. Prickling and itchy sensations
direction, and exercise your hands. 3. Numbing of the affected body part
4. Blisters, if thawing has occurred (See B)
2. Watch yourself and others for patches of
waxy, reddening or blackened skin, especially TREATMENT
on face, ears, and hands.
Mild to Moderate Frostbite
3. Avoid tight clothing which will reduce
circulation. 1. Immerse the frostbitten part in water (104° F - 108° F, same temperature as a
hot bath). (See C)
4. Get dressed inside the warmth of a sleeping 2. Continue treatment until area has softened. D
bag, if camping. 3. If warm water is not available and the hand or fingers are frostbitten, gently
place under armpits or between thighs without squeezing or rubbing the
5. Never go out without adequate clothing, frostbitten body part. (See D)
even briefly. Avoid getting clothes wet,
through sweat or water. Dry clothes as soon SEVERE FROSTBITE
as possible if this happens.
B 6. Knock snow off before entering shelter, or When you notice little or no flesh softness, immediate medical
leave outer clothing at entrance. Snow will care by a professional is required.
melt in warmth giving you more clothing to
dry. CAUTIONS

7. Wear gloves and keep them dry. Never touch 1. Do not forcibly remove frozen shoes or mittens. E
metal with bare skin.
2. Do not rub affected area with oils, snow, ice, or hands.
8. Avoid spilling gas on bare flesh. In sub-zero
temperatures it will freeze almost at once and 3. Do not thaw if there is a chance of refreezing (especially if the toes or feet are involved).
does even more damage than water because
of its lower melting point. 4. Do not use artificial heat sources like heat lamps, fires, or heating pads for
thawing, as these sources are difficult to control and the risk of burning is high.
9. Be especially careful if you are working hard (See E)
and/or are fatigued.
5. Do not break or pop blisters.

Index
HEART
ATTACK
A D
A heart attack is a blood clot which causes complete TREATMENT
blockage of a diseased coronary artery, resulting in
the death of either some, or all, of the heart muscle. 1. ABC if unconscious.
2. Have patient stop activity and sit or lie down. (See B)
Each year over 700,000 people suffer heart attacks in 3. Be prepared to administer CPR if necessary. Have
the United States; of these people, around 120,000 patient take one adult aspirin or four children's
die. aspirin. (See C)
4. The patient should rest until help arrives. Activity may
Risk factors include high blood pressure, high blood worsen heart damage.
cholesterol, cigarette smoking, diabetes, physical 5. If patient has a history of heart attacks and is in
B inactivity, and hereditary factors. possession of nitro-glycerin, assist patient with its E
administration.
SYMPTOMS
PREVENTION
1. Chest discomfort is the most common indicator.
This discomfort can be in the form of pressure, Attending to the following will promote a healthy heart:
squeezing, fullness, tightness, or pain located in
the center of the chest behind the breastbone. It DIET & NUTRITION
may last more than two minutes, and may also
come and go. (See A) A balanced diet low in fat and sodium, high in fiber, and
appropriate for your caloric needs. (See D)
C 2. Other signs may include sweating, nausea, F
shortness of breath, or weakness. EXERCISE AND FITNESS

3. Pain may not be severe. Regular exercise as recommended by your physician. (See
E)
4. In diabetics, women, and people over the age of 75
years, shortness of breath may be the major LIFESTYLE
symptom
Avoid cigarettes. Smoking doubles the risk of a heart
attack. Maintain a healthy weight, blood pressure, and
cholesterol levels. (See F)

Index
SUNSTROKE HEAT
EXHAUSTI
ON
Sunstroke is a life-threatening condition resulting from high body temperature (above 105°
F) cause by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially with humidity. Individuals B
at high risk include the elderly, infants, physically or mentally ill, or the intoxicated.
Heatstroke can occur at normal air temperature due to drug use or vigorous exercise, and
may be caused by medications or violent agitation.

SYMPTOMS NOTE
1. Hot or dry skin
2. Rapid breathing In the lesser form of heat illness, like heat
3. Body temperature above 105° F cramps or heat exhaustion, mental function is
4. Absence of perspiration, though not always normal and body temperature is generally
5. Dizziness, weakness, nausea normal.
6. Confusion, seizures, unconsciousness
These conditions should be treated with
A TREATMENT
1. Place patient in shaded area.
cooling, copious water or diluted fluids by C
mouth, and rest.
2. Cool by whatever means available. It is
ideal to disrobe and immerse the patient in PREVENTION
cool water being careful to protect breathing.
(See A) Avoid overexposure to the sun, excessive heat,
3. If immersion is not possible, wet entire skin high humidity, and strenuous work in the sun.
with cool water and fan continuously. (See B) Wear a wide-brimmed hat and appropriate
4. Continue procedures until temperature clothing. As with diarrhea, dehydration is
drops to 102° F or below. usually an easily treatable issue. Maintaining
5. Rehydrate the patient by giving lots of adequate hydration is necessary to reduce the
fluids. risk of heat stroke. Mild dehydration is treated
Sports drinks are ideal. (See C) with copious liquids or electrolyte sports
drinks to restore the body's liquids,
WARNING electrolytes, and salt balance.
If the patient is not cooled rapidly, irreversible
brain damage might occur within minutes.
Index
HYPOTHERMIA Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature drops below 95° F. When the
body’s temperature drops, its organs can't function normally. If left untreated,
hypothermia can eventually lead to complete failure of the cardiac and respiratory
systems, and eventually, death. Hypothermia can be caused by exposure to cool air,
but not necessarily freezing air temperatures (hypothermia can still occur in the
summer months with a combination of perspiration and wind), improper or
inadequate clothing, nourishment deprivation, and alcohol abuse.

A
SYMPTOMS 5. If the patient is responsive, over warm drinks of sweetened
liquid or soup, but no alcohol or caffeine. Provide nourishment
C
1. Lack of coordination, slurring and slowing of speech, poor containing simple sugars. (See C)
judgment, impairment of memory, and loss of awareness
may occur at 93°F (34°C). 6. If the rescuer is certain that the patient is not breathing, and no
pulse is felt for at least one minute, CPR should be performed.
2. Unconsciousness, slow pulse and respiration, dilated (See D)
pupils below 90° F (34° C).
7. Do not perform CPR if it places the rescuer in danger.
3. Shivering or rigid muscles initially – shivering generally
stops at 86° - 90°F (30° - 32°C). Fatigue and numbness set 8. CPR should be performed until the patient reaches the hospital.
in as temperature drops below 98° F (37°C).
9. NEVER leave a hypothermic patient alone.
4. Changes in heart rhythm may occur below 88°F (31° C).
PREVENTION
Someone with hypothermia usually isn't aware of their
condition because symptoms tend to begin gradually, and Before you head out into the cold, remember to follow the simple
the confusion associated with hypothermia prevents self- acronym COLD:
awareness.
B Cover. Wear a hat to prevent body heat from escaping from the
TREATMENT head, face, and neck. Wear mittens instead of gloves.
D
1. The rescuer must prevent further heat loss. Move patient Overexertion. Avoid vigorous activities that may cause you to
into a warm environment. Handle patient gently. sweat profusely. The combination of wet clothing and cold
weather causes the body to lose heat more quickly.
2. Remove wet and cold clothing when possible. (See A)
Layers. Wear loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing. Outer
3. Cover exposed body surfaces with dry/warm clothing, and clothing made of tightly woven, water-repellent material is best
blankets and/or surround patient with body heat. (See B) for wind protection. Wool, silk or polypropylene inner layers hold
body heat better than cotton.
4. Insulate the patient from the ground.
Dry. Stay as dry as possible. Get out of wet clothing as soon as
possible. Be especially careful to keep your hands and feet dry, as
it's easy for snow to get into mittens and boots.

Index
SNAKEBITE CALL 911

A TREATMENT CAUTION
D
The onset of symptoms may be delayed for No incision or suction. (See D and E)
up to six hours. Do not wait until symptoms
No tourniquets. (See F)
develop before seeking medical help.

1. Keep affected part as immobile as possible.


No ice packs or ice water immersion. (See G) E
(See A) Do not use an electrical current in the treatment of a snakebite.

2. Remove jewelry and other potential PREVENTING SNAKE BITES:


constricting items from affected limb due
B to the potential for swelling. (See B) Look down as you walk through any brush or tall grass. (See H)
F
To ensure that you don't scare a snake, make sure they
3. Keep patient as inactive (preferably lying
can hear you coming.
flat) and as calm as possible.
Don’t sleep or rest next to areas where snakes may be
4. Rapidly apply a compression bandage to hiding. This includes brush, tall grass, big rocks, and
the extremity beginning at the site of the trees. G
bite and covering the entire extremity. The
wrap should be snug, but not so snug as to ALWAYS wear hiking boots that cover your ankles and
keep your pants legs tucked into your boots.
inhibit circulation.
Don’t try to pick up any snake, dead or alive. Snakes
5. Splint the injured limb if possible (normally have a reflex that allows them to bite for a minute or so
C the snake bit an extremity) and position the
affected limb at the same level as the heart.
after they have died. H
Don’t poke your hands into rock crevices, hollow logs,
6. Seek medical help immediately. (See C) heavy brush, or any place a snake may be waiting for its
next meal.

Make noise. Most snakes don’t want to see you any


more than you want to see them.

Index
STROKE A stroke, also called a cerebrovascular accident, is an accident
which results in some loss of function (loss of speech, a weak
arm or leg, and may or may not result in loss of consciousness)
caused by a disturbance in the blood circulation in the brain.

A
1. Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, and leg on one side of C
the body. (See A and B)

2. Loss of speech, or trouble speaking or understanding speech. (See C)

3. Dimness or loss of vision, particularly in one eye.

4. Unexplained dizziness, unsteadiness, or sudden falls.

5. Loss of consciousness.

These effects may be permanent, or temporary. They often last less than
24 hours, or sometimes just a few minutes.
B TREATMENT PREVENTION

1. ABC Stroke shares several of the same


controllable risk factors associated
2. When any of the symptoms are present or have occurred, medical with heart disease, with high blood
assistance should be sought immediately. pressure being the leading risk factor.
The stroke rate is greatest for men.
3. Patient should be transported to a health care provider as soon as
possible. Medications, diet modifications, and
the curtailing of certain lifestyle
4. If the patient reaches the hospital in less than 3 hours, additional habits, like smoking, may all
treatment may be available. contribute to reducing the risk of a
stroke.

Index
SERVICES

Emergencies Customer Service CPR familiarity


In case of emergencies, call If you require any information It is recommended that all
911. If you are traveling about customer care, please adults are familiar with CPR.
abroad, call 112. don’t hesitate to contact us at Children can benefit from
info@surviveware.com. this too. First aid courses are
available countrywide.

We want to improve Support Care Best Practice


We are always aiming to be a Always keep your first aid kit Ensure that you have all
better company, so if you have on hand. It could be your life emergency numbers on hand
any ideas on how to improve our ring until professional aid and that your family is
kit, we would love to hear your arrives. familiar with procedures to
thoughts. Please get in touch at follow in case of an
info@surviveware.com. emergency.
OUR
MISSION This amazing foundation donates
Surviveware is a proud 3D printers to schools across the
US, teaches the students how to
supporters of Hands Free,
use them, and then has the school
our all-time favorite
use the printer to create 3D printed
charitable organization.
prosthetic hands for children all
around the world!
What matters most in the
long run is helping others. Hands Free targets schools in low
We donate a percentage income areas and the goal is to not
of our profits to our all-time only help those receiving prosthetic
favorite charity, Hands hands, but also teach kids how to
Free. use the technology.

To get involved and help By targeting schools and programs


this refreshing movement in low income neighborhoods, they
visit www.handsfree.org are giving 3D printer access to kids
who would never normally have
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