Pack small tarpaulin in case of emergencies

If stuck out in the wilds, a tarp can be used to construct an
emergency shelter. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

When your kids are old enough that you’ve traded the baby carrier for a backpack, you may want to consider carrying a small tarpaulin with you.

These can be useful when building an emergency shelter. They also can provide a barrier between a child and the ground should first aid have to be given or if a bed must be made because an emergency forces you to stay the night.

Read more about day hiking with children in my guidebook Hikes with Tykes.

Lost on hike? Get some comfortable sleep

Pine boughs can make a comfortable mattress.
Photo courtesy of dawnzy58 / Photoree.

So you're lost in the wilds - with children - and forced to stay the night. You'll need to ensure your children (and you) are able to be as comfortable as possible. One way to do that is to ensure you get some sleep.

To make a makeshift bed, place a tarpaulin or other material between you and the ground so you don't get cold or wet. Huddle together for warmth.

When going to sleep, keep the flashlight next to you in case you need to get up during the night. Young children may become frightened or need to go potty, requiring you to get up. Make sure the flashlight is off or the batteries will go dead by morning.

Read more about day hiking with children in the guidebook Hikes with Tykes.

Treat children for shock during hiking injury

When the circulatory system fails, the heart and brain are deprived of oxygen, resulting in the life-threatening condition of shock.

Blood loss is the most common cause of shock, but other injuries such as fractures, heat stroke and hypothermia also can lead to it. To prevent shock, adequately treat such injuries.

Even with such treatment, however, there is a chance that shock might occur. Symptoms include a fast but weak pulse, cool skin, chills, pallor, and mental confusion.

To treat, place a tarpaulin or picnic tablecloth on the ground that can keep the child’s body off the earth. Lay the child on this covering and raise the feet about 20 inches off the ground. Cover the child in clothing to maintain his body temperature. Keep reassuring the child so they remain calm. Don’t let them go asleep and seek immediate medical attention.

Read more about treating children's medical injuries in my guidebook Hikes with Tykes.