Emergency Situations & First Aid
The Adirondack High Peaks offer rugged and remote terrain, making preparation for emergencies and first aid essential. Whether facing an injury, getting lost, or dealing with severe weather, knowing how to react can be the difference between a safe outcome and a life-threatening situation.
KNOW-before-you-GO
SECTION 1: INCASE OF INJURY
​1. Stay Calm & Assess the Situation
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Determine the severity of the injury and whether the person can continue or needs assistance.
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If minor (blisters, small cuts, mild strains), administer first aid and continue cautiously.
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If serious (broken bones, head injury, severe bleeding), do not attempt to move the person unless absolutely necessary.
2. Call for Help
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If cell service is available, call DEC Forest Ranger Dispatch (1-833-NYS-RANGERS / 1-833-697-7264) or 911.
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If no service, attempt to reach higher ground for a better signal.
3. Stabilize the Person & Prevent Further Harm
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Keep them warm and dry with extra clothing, emergency blankets, or natural insulation.
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Apply basic first aid (stop bleeding, immobilize fractures, treat for shock).
4. Decide on Next Steps
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If waiting for rescue, stay put and make the area visible by laying out bright clothing or reflective gear.
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If assistance is needed but not critical, send two people to get help while others stay behind.
SECTION 2: IF YOU GET LOST
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Stop, Think, Observe, Plan (S.T.O.P.)
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Do not panic—instead, assess your surroundings and try to retrace your steps.
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Look for trail markers, footprints, or any familiar landmarks.
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Attempt to Call for Help
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If cell service is available, call DEC Forest Ranger Dispatch (1-833-NYS-RANGERS / 1-833-697-7264) or 911.
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If no service, attempt to reach higher ground for a better signal.
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Stay Put & Make Yourself Visible
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Moving further can make rescue efforts harder. Staying in one location increases the chance of being found.
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Use a whistle, bright clothing, or signal mirror to attract attention.
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Prepare for Survival if Needed
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Stay warm and dry—use extra clothing or construct an emergency shelter with branches, tarps, or space blankets.
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Ration food and water to extend supplies.
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If nightfall is approaching, conserve energy and stay in place until daylight.
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SECTION 3: Emergency Gear & First Aid Kits
A well-stocked first aid kit and emergency supplies can significantly increase safety on the trail.
Essential First Aid Kit Items
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Bandages & Gauze – For cuts, scrapes, and wounds.
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Adhesive Tape & Blister Treatment – Prevents and treats foot injuries.
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Antiseptic Wipes & Antibiotic Ointment – Reduces infection risk.
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Tweezers & Tick Removal Tool – Essential for removing splinters or ticks.
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Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen, Aspirin) – Helps with swelling and discomfort.
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Benadryl or Antihistamines – Useful for allergic reactions.
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Gloves & CPR Mask – Protects against contamination.
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Elastic Wrap or SAM Splint – For stabilizing sprains or fractures.
Additional Emergency Gear
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Whistle (Three Blasts = Emergency Signal)
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Bright Colored Cloth or Signal Mirror
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Fire Starter & Waterproof Matches
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Emergency Blanket or Space Blanket
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Multi-Tool or Knife
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Extra Food & Water Filtration System
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Headlamp with Extra Batteries
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Paper Map & Compass