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TrekSafelyGeorge Crowl

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The Problem

Accidents

Close calls (indications of a potential accident)

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The Response

Scouting is responsible for the safety of all trek participants.

Trek Safely is designed to promote safety and help prevent accidents.

Accidents occur when Trek Safely procedures are not followed.

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The Policy

Youth and adult leaders:

Should appreciate potential hazards that may be encountered

Take steps to reduce risks

Adherence to seven pointsof Trek Safely will avoid most significant risks

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Overview

Qualified supervisionKeep fitPlan aheadGear upCommunicate clearly and

completelyMonitor conditionsDiscipline

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1. Qualified Supervision

Mature and conscientious adult, 21 or over

Accepts responsibility for safety of group

Two adults minimum (one 21)

One person first aid trained

ARC Wilderness First Aid / CPR

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2. Keep Fit

Class 2 or 3 medical record if over 72 hours

Accidents are often related to individual health conditions

Review the medical records

Adjust the trek and activities to reduce individual risk

Have a regular fitness regimen. Start slowly and increase the exercise

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3. Plan Ahead

Trek should match

Maturity

Skill Level

Fitness

Obtain required permits (public / private)

Leave No Trace training

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4. Gear Up

Check for proper equipment and clothing

Every crew has first-aid kit and water

Reminder to bring and take medications

Train in specialized equipment

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5. CommunicateClearly and Completely

Know what to expect and what is expected

Talk to each other

Itinerary

Shared with parents

Changes given to contact person

Changes passed on

Consider carrying cell phone or radio

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6. Monitor Conditions

Leaders make good decisions

Check weather, terrain, morale, food, water and physical condition

If adverse conditions develop, stop or turn back

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7. Discipline

Participants — know, understand, respect rules and procedures

Teach before the outingReview immediately prior to the activityTeach the reason why

Follow instructor’s directionsBe strict and fair

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Resources

Passport to High Adventure (#4310 / 18-075)Fieldbook, #33200MBPs—Backpacking, Camping, Canoeing, Cycling, Hiking, Horsemanship, Small-Boat Sailing, Swimming, WhitewaterPersonal Health and Medical Record Forms—Class 1 / 2, #34414; Class 3, #34412

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Planning Exercise

Five-day backpacking, Rockies, July

1000 miles travel, adequate funds

Crew has four young men, three young women, two men, one woman

Develop a plan. Use all seven elements. Include all BSA requirements.

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Summary

Qualified supervisionKeep fitPlan aheadGear upCommunicate clearly and

completelyMonitor conditionsDiscipline

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Questions?