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What to do in an emergency?

If it all goes wrong on the trail – would you know what to do? Whether it’s you, a riding buddy, or another rider, accidents can happen. We’ve pulled together a guide to help you understand the steps to take if something happens out on the hill. Please give it a read – it could make all the difference.

First aid trails Credit First Aid Borders

Quick Guide - How to manage an incident

Most of the time your rides will pass without incident – but having some basic first aid knowledge is a real game changer when something does go wrong. Why not think about booking some training?

  • Always carry a small first aid kit – even being able to clean and dress a wound can make a big difference.
  • Plan ahead. If you’re prepared, you can override the panic and focus on what needs to be done.
  • Master the basics. Great first aid isn’t about doing everything – it’s about doing the simple things well. Control what you can, and don’t stress about what you can’t.

And remember the 4 C’s:

Cordon

Set up a safe CORDON around the incident - close the trail above the rider, make it safe. Upturned bike further up the trail will do this.

Casualty

Does the CASUALTY need some first aid?

COMMUNICATE

COMMUNICATE with the emergency services or the person who is going to help - you may be able to self evacuate but it is really important to let others know what is going on. IN AN EMERGENCY, DIAL 999, ASK FOR POLICE, THEN ASK FOR MOUNTAIN RESCUE.

COORDINATE

COORDINATE the group and the rescue, make sure everyone is safe and knows what is going on, especially if some riders are ahead of you and may not know what is going on.

Tweed Innerleithen Sept 2021

Image courtesy of Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue

Scottish Mountain Rescue Vice Chair, Kev Mitchell

“We are very lucky in Scotland to have a world class volunteer Mountain Rescue service. Help us, to help you, by being prepared and knowing what to do in an emergency. If you are lost, in need of assistance, or in an emergency, dial 999 ask for POLICE then MOUNTAIN RESCUE. Enjoy our incredible wild places and support our volunteer teams who will assist you any hour, any day, and any weather.”

Tweed Innerleithen 2021 2

Image courtesy of Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue

Use a system that helps recognise life-threatening things first - we call this DR ABC.

Danger

Is it safe? Assess for any other potential accidents and make the area safe for you and your group

Response

Speak to your casualty and ask if they want help, squeeze shoulders

Airway

If they are not responsive you may need to open their airway using a head tilt and chin lift

Breathing

Check if it is normal, breathing that is not normal can be life-threatening.

Circulation

If they are not Breathing this means that you have dialled 999 and you are doing CPR; if they are breathing then check for any bleeds that may be life-threatening

Ensure that the casualty is comfortable by insulating them from the ground, adding extra clothing etc.

Put the casualty into a position that helps them maintain their airway - a Recovery Position/Safe Airway Position.

What happens when I call the POLICE?

Police Scotland deploy all mountain rescue teams in Scotland

The police will require your:

  • Location (ideally 6 figure grid reference or named location/feature)
  • Casualties – number and nature of injuries
  • Group number and equipment you have
  • Mobile numbers for you and others in the group

If something serious happens on the hill, remember that Mountain Rescue might take a while to reach you. Teams are made up of trained volunteers, and it can take time for them to be called out, gather equipment, and travel over rough terrain to your location. That’s why it’s so important to be prepared – with the right kit, some basic first aid knowledge, and a plan – so you can look after yourself or your riding buddies until help arrives.

Tweed Glentress Dec 24

Image courtesy of Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue

Outdoor First Aid Courses

If you are regularly riding at trail centres or on natural trails then we highly recommend you attend an outdoor first aid course.

Thank you to Jen Isherwood from FAB Adventure and First Aid Training for her help in compiling this information.

And finally, remember this good habit to get into!

Tell someone where you are riding.

This especially applies if you are riding alone. Let someone know your route and when you intend to return. This can just be a quick text to your ‘late back’ person. Simply giving the trails you intend to ride and the rough time it should take you.

If you do not contact them within half hour of that time, they should start calling you.

If there is no reply after an agreed time – your ‘late back’ person should be contacting the emergency services. Make sure they know how to do this and who to call! Do not go straight to café/pub and forget to let your ‘late back’ person you are ok. This is an easy habit to get into and could save your life.

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