Outdoor Safety Basics: Clothing, First Aid, and Survival Tips

by | Aug 15, 2025 | Blog | 0 comments

Grabbing a First aid pack while Hiking

Posted by Dr. Thomas Horowitz

When heading outdoors, a few simple rules can make a big difference. Some are universal, no matter where you go, while others depend on the environment. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

  1. Outdoor Clothing
    There’s a simple rule in outdoor clothing: Cotton kills. Cotton doesn’t insulate well when wet, making it a risk in cold or damp environments. In hot, dry climates, it’s less of an issue. Personally, I like denim because it can have a cooling effect when wet in hot weather. However, in cold environments, denim becomes a problem. It can be part of your layers, but always have a water-resistant outer layer ready.

  2. Practical Gear: Ponchos and Long Sleeves
    Ponchos are a classic piece of gear. They keep you dry and can even be used as a makeshift shelter if needed. Long sleeves do more than just protect you from the sun—they also help prevent bug bites, which can be just as annoying and dangerous outdoors.

  3. First Aid Essentials: Skip the Snake Bite Kit
    A solid first aid kit is a must-have. Old-fashioned snake bite kits? Completely useless. Don’t bother with them. With increasing wildfires, small animals tend to move closer to residential areas, and their predators follow. This means a higher risk of snake bites, especially from pit vipers.
    For pit viper bites, follow the rule of the 3 A’s: Antibiotics, Antitoxin, and Antivenom.
    Not all emergency rooms stock antivenom, so it’s a good idea to have rescue teams check in advance.

  4. Know Your Allergies
    If you have allergies, especially to horse serum (which some antivenoms use), make sure you wear an allergy tag. Sometimes the treatment itself can be dangerous.

  5. Snake Bite Myth: Don’t Cut the Wound
    One final tip: Never cut into a bite wound. It’s a dangerous myth that can cause more harm by damaging blood vessels and worsening the injury.

With just a little preparation and awareness, you can enjoy your outdoor adventures much more safely. Stay safe out there!
 
 
Go to our Blog