Mountain

Safety

MS 1_5:FA Basics(Blisters)

Learning Intention:

To equip you with the knowledge to avoid and treat blisters.

Success Criteria:By the end of this session everyone should be able to:• Describe what steps to take to avoid and treat blisters when walking.Some of you may be able to:• Apply zinc oxide tape to hot-spots.

Activities:1. Brainstorm/Powerpoint:

- What causes blisters?- What can you do to avoid them?- How should you treat them?

2. Practical- Zinc Oxide tape- Blister pads

What causes

blisters?

Friction between your skin and your sock or boot

Due to poor fit or foot preparation

Your body’s way of protecting a sore area from further harm by creating a cushion of fluid

Preparation

Try out your boots (and socks) before a long walk If boots are loose, tighten laces or wear additional socks If boots are too tight, get bigger ones Apply Zinc Oxide tape to known hot-spots beforehand

Zinc Oxide tape?

Available from chemists Should be a roll (or two) in your 1st Aid Kit

Doesn’t rub off or take skin away (unlike plasters!)

Helps conduct heat away from hot spots

On the walk

If your feet start to hurt, STOP and address the problem Adjust boots/socks

If you do not fix the problem, it will get much worse

Apply tape to hot-spots

Treatment

If you do get a blister…• Don’t burst it until you get

home• This risks infection and

greater damage to skin

If it bursts by itself…• Apply ZO2 tape and/or blister pad

over wound• If possible, let it dry out overnight

before re-applying dressing• Use antiseptic cream on raw skin

Questions?