Alexandria, La. (7/30/2026) – As families and outdoor enthusiasts take to local trails, parks, and waterways this summer, Acadian Ambulance is reminding everyone to prioritize safety and emergency preparedness before heading into nature.
Whether you are hiking, camping, or fishing near a bayou, taking smart precautions can prevent a fun summer outing from turning into a medical emergency. To help keep the community safe, Acadian Ambulance highlights key recommendations adapted from the National Park Service and REI Co-op experts:
1. Preparation
- Plan & Communicate: Always share your route and expected return time with someone back home. Carry a fully charged phone, map, compass or GPS, and a basic first aid kit.
- Pack for Changing Conditions: Weather can shift rapidly. Pack rain gear, extra warm layers, and sufficient sun protection.
- Hydrate & Fuel: Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks. Never drink untreated water from lakes or streams.
- Stick Together: When hiking in groups, let the slowest hiker set the pace. If hiking alone, take extra precautions.
2. Wildlife Encounters
- Keep Your Distance: Stay at least 50 yards away from general wildlife and 100 yards from large predators like bears. In alligator territory, stay clear of the water’s edge.
- Never Feed Wild Animals: Feeding animals puts both humans and wildlife in danger. Protect food supplies in animal-resistant containers or suspend them high off the ground.
- Avoid Surprises: Make regular noise while walking trails. If you encounter a predator, do not run—back away slowly and steadily.
3. Insects, Ticks & Stings
- Prevention: Use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, and wear long sleeves and pants in wooded or marshy areas.
- Tick Checks: Check skin and clothing after being outdoors. Remove ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers and watch for fever or rash.
- Stings & Bites: Clean the area, apply ice, and use antihistamines for minor reactions. Seek emergency care for severe swelling, breathing trouble, or allergic reactions. Use an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed and call 911.
Take these simple steps to ensure your summer in nature is enjoyable and incident-free.
ABOUT ACADIAN
Acadian Ambulance is the nation’s largest 100% employee-owned ambulance service providing prehospital care and medical transportation to areas in Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. In recognition of Acadian’s clinical excellence, it is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services and a member of the American Ambulance Association. Its sister division, Acadian Air Med, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems.
Acadian Ambulance is a division of Acadian Companies, which has a global reach and a mission of improving the lives of its patients, customers and employees through its innovative spirit and diverse divisions, also including Acadian Air Med, Executive Aircraft Charter Service, Acadian Total Security, National EMS Academy, Safety Management Systems and Acadian Health.
Acadian’s National EMS Academy offers EMT training at its campuses across Louisiana, Texas, and Tennessee. For more information on upcoming classes, visit www.BecomeAMedic.com.
Previous Article: Acadian Ambulance Honors Central Louisiana Paramedic and EMT of the Year
