First Aid

[Tim Collins]

Dear people of the United States.

I am travelling from Australia to Yosemite in August/September and you guys on this blog have been very very helpful with my trip planning.

I therefore have a couple of other questions, this time relating to first aid.

In preparation for this trip we have up-dated our innoculations for a number of in-likely possibilities.

I am now going through a process of up-dating our hiking First Aid kit.

We have all the usual stuff to deal with all the predictable problems but would appreciate advice regarding whether there are any health or safety risks that are peculiar to Yosemite (apart from being bitten by a bear or a racoon)

Any one with any interesting experiences or strong views ?

Many thanks Tim

[balzaccom]

Actually, one of the really wonderful things about the Sierra is that there are NOT any really unque dangers or health concerns. Yes, you need to be aware of dehydration ( humidity is quite low) and altitude sickness above 8,000 feet or so. And yes, you could get bitten by a rattlesnake or bear. (or raccoon?!)

But the single biggest danger in Yosemite by far is drowning in the river--a clearly preventable health hazard.

Be reasonable, be safe, and your biggest concern will be a bit of sunburn, a blister, or an ouchy where you cut your finger instead of the salame for lunch.

There's a section on dangers on our website---if you want to explore it.

[rittercon]

You may consider this as part of the "usual stuff", but don't forget water treatment, either chemical or filtered. Also remember to bring some insect repellant- with all the snow/water in Yosemite this year, there may still be mosquitoes in Sept.