09/14/2026
🚨 MEDICAL MONDAY: HUNTER DOWN IN THE FIELD 🦌🏹
Hunting often takes us far from roads, cell service, and quick access to medical help. If someone in your hunting party suddenly goes down, knowing what to do can make all the difference.
🩺 FIRST — MAKE SURE THE AREA IS SAFE
Before rushing in, make sure there are no firearm hazards, unstable terrain, or other dangers.
📞 CALL 911
Even if you aren’t sure how serious the situation is, call for help. Put your phone on speaker so you can keep your hands free.
❤️ CHECK RESPONSIVENESS & BREATHING
* Are they awake and responding?
* Are they breathing normally?
* If they aren’t breathing normally, begin CPR and follow the dispatcher’s instructions.
🩸 LOOK FOR LIFE-THREATENING BLEEDING
A hunting accident can involve serious bleeding. Apply firm, direct pressure to severe bleeding. If you have a tourniquet and know how to use it, apply it for life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg.
🧊 KEEP THEM WARM
If they’re unconscious, injured, or in shock, protect them from the elements. Use coats, blankets, or other gear to keep them warm.
📍 KNOW YOUR LOCATION
When calling 911, be prepared to provide your GPS coordinates, hunting area, nearest road, trail, landmark, or access point. Don’t leave the patient alone unless absolutely necessary.
🚙 DON’T MOVE THEM UNLESS NECESSARY
If you suspect a head, neck, or back injury, avoid moving them unless staying where they are creates an immediate danger.
🔦 HELP RESPONDERS FIND YOU
Use a flashlight, vehicle lights, GPS location, whistle, or other signals to make your location easier to identify.
Most importantly: STAY CALM. Give the dispatcher as much information as possible and follow their instructions until help arrives.
🦌 A few minutes of preparation before heading into the field could make a huge difference when something goes wrong.
Hunt smart. Hunt safe. Have a plan.
— Salt Creek Emergency Services
