The mountains are a magical place, but they remain a wild environment that carries its share of risks. Even when all precautions are taken, any outdoor enthusiast can face an unexpected incident. Here are some first aid guidelines to help you prepare for the unforeseen.
Preparing your mountain outing
Several key points to keep in mind before heading out hiking or mountaineering:
never go out alone and adapt your route to your physical and technical abilities
bring the safety and survival equipment required for the activity (helmet, harness, sufficient water and food)
inform a close contact of your itinerary and ideally your progress, without forgetting to let them know once you are back
pack an emergency kit: a first aid kit in your bag, a survival blanket, medication
carry a working means of communication: a charged mobile phone, a distress beacon
know the basic care to provide (disinfect and dress a wound) and ideally first aid techniques.
This final phase is not mandatory but strongly recommended. Knowledge of first aid techniques can be valuable both in the mountains and in the city, whether in leisure activities or professional settings.
Getting trained in mountain first aid
In France, several accredited organisations offer first aid training to the general public. Firefighters or associations such as the Red Cross or Civil Protection then award the Level 1 Civil Prevention and Emergency Response certificate (PSC1). The basic first aid course lasts one day and enables participants to better assist people in difficulty in the event of
faintness or even loss of consciousness
wounds, burns or haemorrhages
airway obstruction
cardiac arrest
all kinds of trauma
PSC1 training instils the right reflexes to assist casualties in an emergency and alert rescue services. Throughout the course, theoretical exchanges take place alongside practical scenario exercises.
This initial training can be supplemented by an annual refresher as part of ongoing training.
Steps to follow in the event of a mountain incident
By adopting life-saving techniques, many critical situations can be avoided and lives can be saved.
First reflexes in the event of a mountain accident:
move to safety away from further hazards in order to assist the injured person or casualty, while remaining visible to rescue services if possible
cover and administer first aid
call for help on 112, the emergency call management centre, and follow their instructions
In winter, the guidance remains the same with subtle differences linked to weather conditions.
Listen to the advice of Fred Souchon, rescue officer with the Peloton de Gendarmerie de Haute Montagne (PGHM) in Chamonix:
Several key points to keep in mind before heading out hiking or mountaineering:
In winter, the guidance remains the same with subtle differences linked to weather conditions.
Listen to the advice of Fred Souchon, rescue officer with the Peloton de Gendarmerie de Haute Montagne (PGHM) in Chamonix:
