Many hikers have misconceptions about tourniquets. But carrying one—and knowing how to properly use it—could save your life.

Part of what makes medical emergencies so scary is that, by nature, they can happen completely unexpectedly.

First-degree burns -- when the skin is red but ... then apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment." Put a cloth over that, he says, and then you can apply another cold compress for pain ...

Next, add a layer of antibiotic ointment and, if the scrape is bleeding, cover it with a bandage or a piece of sterile gauze and first-aid tape. For a cut, stop the bleeding by placing clean gauze ...