Part of being a good steward of the planet is knowing when to stop and help others. This is especially true in wilderness environments and situations where there may not be immediate access to emergency care, water, or medication. If you follow the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace, you know that it is your duty as an outdoor explorer to be considerate of others. Part of being considerate to others is helping them conquer the trail safely without hurting themselves or damaging the natural environment.
But you don’t just want to jump right in and start helping without understanding a few important things. This guide will help you provide care, guidance, and assistance to all of your fellow hikers, whether they’re close friends or perfect strangers. Throughout the world, there are groups of people known as “trail angels” who keep the trails safe and provide hikers with essentials such as water, gas, and rides, especially on long-distance trails. Here are some ways to be a great trail angel!
Asking if Someone Needs Help
If you see a person who looks like they may be in need of assistance, don’t assume. Offer your help up front and wait until you receive consent, making sure to emphasize that helping them doesn’t put you out in any way. If the person appears to be non-verbal or is in a position where they can’t speak, look for non-verbal clues or physical identifiers. It’s important to properly identify the victim so you can convey the necessary information to first responders and handle the situation with care. Many people wear ID bracelets with crucial information, such as medical conditions, allergies, or disabilities, which may provide you with some insight into their situation. Check for any form of medical ID before administering care.
Approach with Care
Remember that many people, especially women and those who hike alone, feel vulnerable on the trail. When you approach another person, be sure that you make your intentions very clear and approach them with questions such as “Are you OK?” and “Do you need help?” Never touch anyone or begin administering care without their consent. If the person is unresponsive, call 911 and ask for help.
Being Prepared for Anything
If you’re a non-medical professional, you can’t be expected to know how to handle every medical emergency or injury. However, even regular citizens can — and should — arm themselves with some important tools and knowledge that could potentially be life-saving. Remember to always call 911 and speak to a professional if you believe the situation is serious. A 911 dispatcher will be able to walk you through important first aid steps until help arrives. However, there are some things you can do to ensure that you’re a good on-trail helper.
- Carry a first aid kit. Even if it’s just a small one that fits in your backpack, a first aid kit can make a big difference in emergencies. Make sure it has all the basics, including bandages, antiseptic cream, over-the-counter medications, etc.
- Carry emergency essentials, such as a compass, a distress whistle, a solar charger for your phone, stormproof matches and a fire starter. Though you hopefully never have to use them, these items could be crucial in the event of an emergency.
- Brush up on first aid. A few simple first aid basics can help ensure that bad scenarios don’t turn into very bad scenarios on the trail. For example, know how to properly move an injured person without putting them in more danger or worsening their injury.
- Take a CPR class. If you spend a lot of time on the trails or in any environment where an accident could turn deadly, consider brushing up on your CPR or getting certified. Knowing how to perform CPR could be life-saving during a cardiac or breathing emergency.
- Pack extra water and snacks. Part of being prepared in the outdoors is having a backup stash of sustenance. If you’ve got the room, pack a bit of extra water and food so you’re prepared in the event of an emergency.
How to Help Friends on the Trail
If you like to hike as a way to connect with friends and loved ones, you may come across scenarios where you need to provide encouragement or push others along the way. Remember that not everyone is at the same fitness or endurance level as you are, and you shouldn’t expect them to go at your pace. Here are a few of the best ways to ensure that your fellow hikers don’t feel discouraged and instead feel that they can conquer anything:
- Let them lead. The slowest hiker sets the pace. Whether you’re hiking with a friend who has had an injury or who simply isn’t as in shape as you are, don’t forge on without them. Always go at the pace of the slowest member to ensure that no one falls too far behind.
- Speak words of encouragement. A little bit of positive talk goes a long way, especially for people who are not comfortable on the trail or who feel out of shape. Be sure you’re encouraging your fellow hikers to push themselves, but only at their own pace.
- Let them choose the trail. What seems like an easy hike for you may be a challenging one for your companion, especially if they have suffered from an injury or medical issue. If you’re in better physical shape, always let your partner choose the trail.
Making the Trail a Better Place
By helping others in need, you’re doing a great service to the planet and your little piece of it. Always approach our natural lands as a shared space that’s home to all of us. Just as you would help a distressed person in your home, you should aid fellow hikers if needed. Just be sure to follow the above tips for the best possible outcome!