Burns Are a Big Problem in the Backcountry. Here’s How to Deal.

Burns are a common and serious problem in the backcountry, and knowing how to deal with them is essential for anyone venturing into the wilderness. Whether you're a hiker, camper, or outdoor enthusiast, it's important to be prepared for the possibility of burns and to know how to properly treat them. In this article, we'll discuss the causes of burns in the backcountry, how to prevent them, and the best ways to deal with them if they do occur.

There are several common causes of burns in the backcountry, including campfires, cooking accidents, and sun exposure. Campfires are a staple of backcountry living, providing warmth, light, and a means of cooking food. However, they can also be a source of burns if not handled properly. Cooking accidents, such as spills or contact with hot surfaces, can also lead to burns. Additionally, sun exposure can cause sunburns, which can be particularly severe at higher altitudes where the sun's rays are stronger.

Preventing burns in the backcountry starts with proper preparation and planning. When building a campfire, it's important to choose a safe location away from flammable materials and to keep it contained within a fire ring or pit. Never leave a campfire unattended, and always fully extinguish it before leaving the area. When cooking, use caution around hot surfaces and open flames, and always have a fire extinguisher or water source nearby in case of emergencies. To prevent sunburns, wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Despite taking precautions, burns can still occur in the backcountry. When they do, it's important to know how to deal with them effectively. The first step in treating a burn is to assess its severity. Burns are classified into three categories: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree. First-degree burns are the mildest, causing redness and minor pain, while second-degree burns result in blistering and more severe pain. Third-degree burns are the most serious, causing deep tissue damage and potentially affecting nerves and blood vessels.

For first-degree burns, the best course of action is to cool the affected area with cold water or a cold compress. This will help to reduce pain and swelling and prevent the burn from worsening. It's also important to keep the burn clean and dry to prevent infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to alleviate discomfort. For second-degree burns, it's important to seek medical attention, as these burns can be more severe and may require professional treatment.

Third-degree burns are a medical emergency and require immediate attention. In the backcountry, this may mean calling for help or evacuating the injured person to the nearest medical facility. While waiting for help to arrive, it's important to keep the burn clean and covered with a sterile bandage or clean cloth. Do not attempt to remove any clothing stuck to the burn, as this can cause further damage. If the person is conscious, offer them water and reassurance while waiting for help to arrive.

In addition to treating burns, it's important to be prepared for them in the backcountry. A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any outdoor adventure and should include supplies for treating burns, such as burn dressings, gauze, and burn ointment. It's also important to have a plan for seeking help in the event of a serious burn, whether that means knowing the location of the nearest medical facility or having a communication device, such as a satellite phone or personal locator beacon, on hand.

Overall, burns are a big problem in the backcountry, but with proper preparation and knowledge, they can be effectively dealt with. By taking precautions to prevent burns, knowing how to assess their severity, and being prepared to treat them, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy their adventures with greater peace of mind. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a weekend camper, being prepared for burns in the backcountry is a crucial aspect of outdoor safety.