Military First aid – Outdoor First Aid Training for the Joint Services Adventurous Training Wing, Cyprus

The Joint Services Adventurous Training Group plays a vital role in building resilience, leadership, and teamwork among soldiers through outdoor pursuits such as mountain biking, kayaking, and mountaineering. These activities, while incredibly rewarding, come with inherent risks, particularly in the rugged and remote environments where they are conducted. Recognising the importance of being prepared for emergencies, the Adventurous Training Activities unit invited me to Cyprus to deliver a bespoke outdoor first aid course tailored specifically for their instructors.

The course was held at their base in Cyprus, where the breathtaking landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for adventurous training activities but also pose unique challenges. Instructors who lead mountain biking, kayaking, and mountaineering activities must be equipped to manage a range of injuries and emergencies, often in remote locations where immediate medical assistance may not be available. The training I delivered focused on practical, scenario-based learning to ensure participants gained the confidence and skills to act decisively in critical situations.

For the mountain biking instructors, we explored common injuries such as fractures, dislocations, and head trauma resulting from falls. Participants practiced stabilising casualties, using splints, and managing spinal injuries, all while considering the challenges of rough and uneven terrain. We also incorporated scenarios where instructors needed to improvise transport for injured soldiers, emphasising the importance of teamwork and clear communication in remote environments.

The kayaking-focused training addressed water-based emergencies, including capsizing, cold water shock, and near-drowning incidents. Instructors learned how to perform water rescues, manage hypothermia, and deliver CPR for drowning victims. Scenarios were designed to mimic real-life conditions, including responding to emergencies while on the water and stabilising casualties until further help arrived. Special attention was given to dealing with injuries caused by collisions with rocks or equipment during river or sea kayaking.

For the mountaineering instructors, the training centred on injuries such as sprains, fractures, and altitude-related illnesses. We covered techniques for safely managing casualties in high-altitude or exposed locations, including the use of improvised shelters to protect them from the elements. Additionally, scenarios included managing rope-related injuries and handling emergencies in steep or technical terrain, where traditional evacuation methods may be challenging.

Throughout the course, participants were encouraged to think critically and adapt their first aid skills to the specific environments they operate in. We also included training on recognising and managing pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma or diabetes, which can become critical during strenuous activities. The emphasis was on realistic, hands-on practice, ensuring that the skills learned could be immediately applied in the field.

Working with the Joint Services Adventurous Training Group was an incredible experience. Their instructors demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a deep commitment to ensuring the safety of the soldiers they train. By the end of the course, participants had not only enhanced their technical first aid skills but also developed greater confidence in managing emergencies in the challenging environments where they operate.

This collaboration underscores the importance of outdoor first aid training for those who work in adventurous and remote settings. Whether leading a mountain bike expedition, guiding a kayaking trip, or instructing a mountaineering course, having the knowledge and skills to respond effectively to emergencies is essential. It was an honour to contribute to the British Army’s mission to train resilient, adaptable soldiers, and I look forward to future opportunities to support their work.

To book a course contact us via email in the first instance. Cory Jones our Director is lead trainer for a range of organisations including First Aid Training Co-operative, Kingfisher Journeys and Adventure First Aid in Kenya.