What to Do If Someone Is Injured in the Mountains

Warning:This page provides general prevention information, not medical care. It is not a substitute for a healthcare professional or emergency services. In the event of a serious injury, loss of consciousness, heavy bleeding, chest pain, a suspected fracture, or any doubt, call 112 immediately.

First, secure the scene

Before helping anyone, check that the location is safe: look for loose rocks, steep slopes, and traffic on dirt roads. A second injured person makes any rescue much more complicated.

What information to give 112

• What happened and how long ago.
• How many people are in your group and the affected person's condition: whether they are conscious, breathing, or bleeding.
• Exact coordinates if you have them, or a geographic reference and elevation.
• Current weather and visibility.
• A contact phone number and the remaining battery level.

Common situations

Twisted ankle or knee

Stop hiking, do not strain the joint, and assess whether the person can bear weight. If they can walk with help, a firm supportive bandage that allows movement without cutting off circulation and trekking poles can make the descent easier, using the shortest possible route. If they cannot bear weight or the pain is severe, do not move them over difficult terrain: call 112.

Wounds and bleeding

Wash your hands or wear gloves, clean the wound with water or saline, cover it with sterile gauze, and apply pressure if it is bleeding. Do not remove embedded objects. If bleeding does not stop with sustained pressure, it is an emergency.

Heatstroke

Very hot skin, headache, nausea, confusion. Move the person into the shade, loosen their clothing, cool them with water on the neck, armpits, and groin, give them small sips to drink if they are conscious, and call 112. This is a medical emergency.

A practical first-aid kit for a day hike

• Blister dressings and cloth medical tape.
• Sterile gauze, single-use saline, and antiseptic.
• An elastic bandage and a self-adhering bandage.
• Nitrile gloves.
• Your usual pain reliever and personal medications, with the medical report if relevant.
• An emergency blanket, small scissors, and tweezers.

Having supplies does not mean knowing how to use them. An in-person wilderness first-aid course focused on mountain settings is one of the most useful investments you can make if you hike often.