'Be Prepared' Isn’t Just for Boy Scouts

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Splinting a leg may help foresters self evacuate when in a wilderness situation.

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Ozarks Region foresters put safety first and attend Wilderness First Aid training.

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Multiple victims complicate self-evacuation in a wilderness emergency.

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Of the employees who work for the Missouri Department of Conservation in the Ozarks, many spend their days outdoors in the log woods or on the rivers. Working alone, with a work team or with a landowner, foresters, private lands conservationists, biologists and educators who work for the Department can be found off the beaten path and unfortunately quite a distance from emergency medical care.

There's a reason they call it an accident

When outside for business or pleasure, there is always a risk of an accident. Although the Department and its employees take safety seriously, accidents do happen.  Sometimes, it is the public we work with that needs help. Many employees maintain certification in CPR and First Aid. For those who may be more than an hour from medical care, Wilderness First Aid is a great choice. 

Be prepared and enjoy your outdoor adventure

Conservation makes Missouri a great place to hunt and fish, and being prepared is good advice for anyone who is getting ready for an adventure outside. Bug spray, sunscreen, proper clothing and a first aid kit--part of planning ahead also includes a first aid course. For more information on Standard First Aid or Wilderness First Aid contact your local American Red Cross office or visit the link below. Ready for your next adventure? Check out the Places to Go in the Related Information below.