Vibe-Fall-2024 - Flipbook - Page 41
hands-free operation is far superior. In
addition to a headlamp, carry another
headlamp as backup. Spare batteries
are also a good idea, but nothing beats
a spare headlamp. After all, changing
batteries in the dark has its own issues.
BECOMING LOST OR DISORIENTED
What happens, exactly?
Often times you’re on trail one minute,
then the next minute you’re facing down
some tight vegetation. Other times a
lack of visibility or experience can lead
to your becoming disoriented. This is
especially true in the late fall and winter
when leaves or snow can hide the way.
How does it happen?
As noted a lack of visibility can sometimes be the culprit, or the trail may
become obscured (even during the
summer on some wilder, less defined
trails), but often it is simply a lack of
attention. Panic is also a byproduct, and
it can make things worse. If lost—stop,
take a break, think things through, and
do not panic.
What are the consequences?
The consequences are many, ranging
from being momentarily inconvenienced or alarmed to literally dying in
the woods. And going from one state to
the other is certainly possible, depending on weather, duration, your gear,
and/or just how far off track you are. A
fine could result if you don’t have a map
and compass.
How can someone remedy/avoid it?
The number one thing someone can
do is to prepare by getting to know the
route then paying attention throughout
the hike. And to add to that, if a moment
of indecision does occur, don’t panic.
Also, carry the right tools (and know
how to use them): a current topomap of
the trail and a proper compass. A wristwatch altimeter is also very helpful.
GETTING AN INJURY OR ILLNESS
What happens, exactly?
A misstep leading to a fall is quite common. Sprains, contusions, and broken
bones are typical. Some can be life
threatening for myriad reasons. Or anything medically can happen to anyone
at any time and cover a wide range of
issues from anaphylaxis to heart attack
and anything in between.
Fall 2024
How does it happen?
Injuries often happen to those descending. They’re tired, elated, and inattention takes over … then, bam. Sometimes,
however, falls are gear-related due to
a lack of traction, for example. Illness,
on the other hand, can commonly be
brought about through heat, cold, and
hydration issues. Or simply by way of a
lack of fitness.
What are the consequences?
If injured or ill, barring intervention,
the result may lead to a loss of life. And
help can take a while in the mountains,
even if alerted right away. A painful or
uncomfortable wait is likely. A fine is
unlikely as per the spirit of the mountains, unless the injury or illness is
caused by a lack of gear (no traction or
food/water, for example).
How can someone remedy/avoid it?
Bringing the right gear and layers is
a good start; then pay attention and
simply be careful. And to avoid illness,
ensure you’re prepared for the task at
hand on all levels. Also, carry a first aid
kit to help with unexpected issues, and
understand how to respond. And, do
try 9-1-1, even if your phone says, “No
Service,” as it may work anyway.
WILD & RESCUE MEDICINE
From people who have done
what they teach
Courses include
Wilderness First Responder, EMT,
Wilderness EMT, Advanced EMT,
Wilderness Medicine Bridge Course,
Wilderness First Aid, and more.
thekaneschools@gmail.com
THEKANESCHOOLS.COM
TRAPPED BY THE TERRAIN
What happens, exactly?
Being trapped can happen in myriad
ways, some covered already (i.e.,
benighted, lost). Others might include
literally being trapped in a spruce trap
or tree well—so wear snowshoes and
don’t hike alone. Another way is to become trapped in dangerous conditions,
such as in icy terrain or on cliff faces in
the vertical realm.
How does it happen?
Being trapped by ice is usually the result
of missing, broken, or inadequate traction. And being trapped in the vertical
realm is usually the result of unknowingly getting off route where it’s critical to
get it right, or simply a matter of overconfidence when a hiker reaches beyond
their physical or technical abilities.
What are the consequences?
You can’t go up and you can’t go down.
And if you try, you fear becoming injured or dying. So, you’re stuck. Having
appropriate layers at this juncture
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