First aid kit

First aid equipment for hunting. What to bring and basic procedures.

Accidents during hunting are rare, but when they happen you're often far from help. Basic first aid equipment and knowledge can save lives.

Minimum first aid kit for hunting: Pressure bandage (Israeli bandage): For stopping major bleeding. The most important item. Tourniquet (CAT or similar): For life-threatening bleeding from arms and legs. Band-aids and gauze pads: For minor cuts and scrapes. Athletic tape: Versatile. Can stabilize joints, secure bandages, repair equipment. Painkillers: Paracetamol and ibuprofen. Emergency blanket (space blanket): Prevents hypothermia. Weighs nothing. Whistle: To call for help.

Procedures: Bleeding: Direct pressure on the wound. Pressure bandage. Tourniquet for life-threatening limb bleeding. Hypothermia: Prevent further heat loss. Emergency blanket. Warm drinks if the patient is conscious. Fractures: Stabilize with whatever you have. Don't move the patient unnecessarily.

Call 113 (medical emergency) or 112 (general emergency). Provide exact location (GPS coordinates). Describe the injury briefly and clearly.

Air ambulance: In the mountains, a helicopter may be the only way to evacuate an injured person. Have your GPS position ready and clear a landing area.

Courses: Take a first aid course. The Red Cross and Norwegian People's Aid offer courses tailored to outdoor activities.