Back Country First Aid
By William R. Wynd
The Inland Empire Chapter of the Backcountry Horsemen recently offered
a two-day course aimed at preparing travelers in the backcountry
to administer first aid when professional medical help is delayed.
Often those who travel the backcountry do not realize the extent
of accidents that could happen. Being thrown from a horse, for example,
could mean broken bones, severe head trauma, back injury or more.
Being prepared to administer first aid when competent medical help
may be hours or days away could mitigate a potentially life threatening
situation.
Wilderness First Aid Basics was developed by the Transylvania
County Chapter of the American Red Cross. In addition to this student
guide prepared by the Red Cross two other texts were provided; Mountaineering
First Aid and First Aid when Help is Delayed. These three publications,
available from the Red Cross, provide a comprehensive outline of
first aid response.
Our instructor for the course provided the practical experience
necessary to integrate the textual material into a guideline for
action. Bat Masterson has over 30 years of medical experience including
combat military and civilian hospital emergency room service. He
trains emergency room doctors and nurses at a local hospital. However,
his other job experience is particularly relevant to the Backcountry
Horsemen because he owns and operates Coeur d'Alene Outfitters.
Bat "spoke our language" as he related some of his first aid experiences
in the backcountry.
This course was offered for the first time in the Spokane area.
In accordance with the educational mission of the Backcountry Horsemen,
we strive to "educate and inform users about the etiquette and impact
of recreational use on lands." Other courses offered periodically
are "Leave no Trace" camping methods and Packing Clinics. Our meeting
programs touch a variety of topics of interest to people who use
the backcountry for recreational riding.
IEBCH Education Chairperson Ted Krauss organized the course. Limited
to 24 participants, the course was oversubscribed almost immediately.
In view of this demand Ted indicated it may be offered again soon.
He can be reached at 509 448 2122
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