Quick Answer
If a passenger becomes unresponsive, check for breathing and a pulse, and if none are detected, begin CPR. Call for emergency assistance and provide a description of the situation.
Assessing the Passenger
Assess the passenger’s condition immediately. Check for breathing by feeling for air on your cheek or looking for rising and falling of the chest. Listen for breath sounds. Check for a pulse in the neck. If the passenger is not breathing or has no pulse, it’s time to begin CPR. Keep the passenger’s airway clear and call for emergency assistance.
Performing CPR
Start CPR by performing 30 chest compressions to one breath. Use a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Compress the chest to a depth of 2-3 inches, allowing the chest to fully recoil between compressions. Give a breath after every 30 compressions, making sure the airway is clear and the breath is delivered to the lungs. Repeat this cycle until emergency assistance arrives or the passenger regains consciousness.
Maintaining Body Heat
If stranded in the snow, hypothermia is a significant concern. Remove any wet clothing and provide a dry blanket or emergency bivvy sack to keep the passenger warm. Use body heat from your own body to warm the passenger by huddling together. If possible, start a fire to provide a warm source of heat. Monitor the passenger’s condition closely, as hypothermia can progress quickly.
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