Today we’ll introduce some common knowledge on how to deal with unexpected situations during outdoor travel:

1. Motion sickness (from vehicles, planes, boats, etc.) People prone to motion sickness should avoid eating too much before traveling and take medication (preferably self-prepared or prescribed by a doctor); guides or interpreters serving travelers should arrange them in the most stable seats possible; if any traveler experiences motion sickness during a long journey, the guide should ask the crew for assistance.

2. Heatstroke The main symptoms of heatstroke include heavy sweating, thirst, dizziness, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, and fever; in severe cases, it can lead to unconsciousness or even coma. People exposed to high heat and humidity for extended periods are prone to heatstroke. Therefore, during summer travel, guides should ensure proper rest and avoid prolonged sun exposure. If someone suffers from heatstroke, move them to a cool, ventilated place, lay them flat, loosen their collar, and unfasten their belt; if possible, have them drink a salt-containing beverage. For those with a fever, use cold water or alcohol to reduce body temperature, administer necessary anti-heatstroke medications, and allow them to rest quietly (sitting or lying down) after relief. Seriously affected individuals should receive immediate medical treatment after necessary first aid.

3. Food Poisoning Food poisoning can be very harmful, with symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea. It has a rapid onset, quick progression, and short incubation period, and can be life-threatening without timely treatment. If a traveler shows signs of food poisoning, have them drink plenty of water to dilute the toxins; in serious cases, send them to the hospital immediately. Food poisoning is usually caused by unhygienic food, so guides should constantly remind travelers not to eat from street vendors.

4. Fractures If a traveler suffers a fracture, they must be sent to the hospital immediately. However, at the scene, the guide should: First, stop the bleeding. Common methods include finger pressure—using fingers, palms, or fists to press near the wound to block blood flow; compression bandaging—placing thick dressings on the wound and wrapping tightly with a bandage; and using a tourniquet—applying an elastic bandage to major arteries near the heart. Second, bandage the wound. Clean the wound if possible, bandage gently, maintain appropriate tightness, and avoid tying knots over the injury. Third, immobilize with a splint. Improvise a splint on-site to stabilize both ends of the joint and prevent movement of the fractured limb.

5. Sudden Cardiac Arrest If a traveler suffers sudden cardiac arrest, do not rush to lift or carry them to the hospital. Instead, have them lie flat on the ground with the head slightly elevated. Have family members, tour leaders, or other travelers check their pockets for emergency medication and administer it. Meanwhile, the local guide should immediately seek medical help from nearby clinics. Once the condition stabilizes slightly, transfer the patient to the hospital.

6. Scorpion or Bee Stings If a traveler is stung by a scorpion or bee, the guide should try to remove the stinger, suck out the venom with the mouth or a straw, then wash the wound with soapy water or, if available, 5% sodium bicarbonate solution or 3% diluted ammonia. Administer painkillers. If the guide or traveler knows traditional herbal remedies, herbs such as large-leaf aloe, medicinal lotus leaves, or prickly ash can be crushed and applied externally. In severe cases, send the traveler to the hospital for emergency treatment.

When anyone in the tour group suffers from heatstroke, food poisoning, fractures, sudden cardiac arrest, or serious scorpion or bee stings, the guide must report to the travel agency immediately without concealing the situation, and send those with severe conditions to the hospital for treatment.

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