Really like ideas bantered
around about asking for rig information, ( as past ride
manager, can see where that info, could really be useful, at larger rides,
License plate #, other than truck & trailer description; have to
say like idea of having some kind of schematic drawn up where rider comes back
after parked and 'marks their spot', hmm, may have to keep that in mind, and
forward to OD board. Would help friends to locate each other too. Rather then
having them come in to registration asking if ' so and so'
there), and not just emergency contact - my emergency contact, would
not have clue what to with horse / truck and trailer - would have to rely
on fellow riders, there. Recommend every rider carry 'critical'
information, more so when riding out conditioning, and alone than at ride, where
others know you. I generally had info attached to horses halter in
camp,case we got seperated, but never really labeled myself, - something to
think about; as generally ride alone. And need to add to
bridle/ saddle.
First rule of thumb - 'do no
harm'. sometimes if not sure what to do, better to do nothing - but call,
go for help. OR, send for help and stay wiith person and offer 'moral
support'. As stated, many communities have 'basic first aid' classes one can
take, ( and advanced levels ), but in all actuality, when confronted with
an emergency, unless, use 'skills' with some frequency, most people will
not know what to do; except - basics - apply pressure to bleeding, and
prevent movement of obvious fractures; and sometimes better to leave those alone
til more 'skilled' personnel present.( Unless, really have to move person, and
often do not ). Impaled objects, quite possible; When riding through
woods -( leave alone) . In other words leave them implanted, keep person
still, as possible.) Same for horse, if possible;may cut off, ie. shorten
object, but generally, depending where is, leave it. and secure bandage/ wrap to
prevent movement of object.( I am sure some Smart A-- here will say something
about leaving buddy in/on tree; you know what I referring to, - a branch '
breaks off' and impales your leg,/ arm; hopefully, not abdomen, but.. if you
remove object you will have more bleeding.)
With suspected 'serious' injury
- do not give medications, do not give food. And only sips, if any!
liquids. Unless, contact with EMS ( Emergency Service Providers, and
they advise to give a medication,( which you will not have anyway) or if
person request own medication.)
For years, for both people or horse, I
carried, small maxi pad -( as previously described. sterility, generally,
not an issue with an already contaminated wound, just clean bandage; and
these are easy to carry, very absorbent. Few telfa pads, and gauze pads in a
plastic bag.) Vet wrap, ace bandage - 4" good size for most anything, several
pieces/lengthes of rope, a small hand towel, few plastic cable ties, roll
of tape. and nylon lead rope ( though not a big thick one, about 1/ 4 to
1/2"- but 6 - 8 ft long); these can be used to fashion sling, if needed, repair
tack, (or make sponge, if you forget yours like I have). ( You
can even make a stirrup, if needed in a pinch.) Yes, all these fitted in
either cantle, or pommel pouch, with room for other "things"; like one of
those multi function tools, add whatever, brand name. I also, carried a few
benadryl - for beestings, - of course, that goes against what I said about
not giving medications. I would not give a pain medicine, other medication,
without ??, ' proper order ' - you could get ' hit' with practicing
medicine; not just being ' a good samaritian'; other 'rule of thumb' - do
what 'normal'. prudent person would do?
As stated. any injury with loss
of conciousness, continued or severe pain - needs 'real' medical
evaluation.
And Jonni you were right - Why 'bite'
at post about footwear/ horsemanship/ soundness; especially when not
acknowledged by signing.... btw, direct response to - was returned,
undeliverable. Stephanie M
