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
