How To Safely Plan Your
by Sandra Riches, AdventureSmart BC
We rarely head out for an outdoor adventure with the expectation that something will go wrong, and, most times, everything will go right. However, that one time that the unexpected happens, your investment in trip safety can mean the difference between a successful outcome and becoming a statistic. Whether your activity is during the summer or winter, on land or water, and anywhere in Canada, remember the three T’s and follow these simple steps:
Trip Planning • Plan your travel route • Know the terrain and conditions • Check the weather • Always fill out a trip plan
TRAINING • Obtain the knowledge and skills you need before heading out • Know and stay within your limits
TAKING THE ESSENTIALS
LEAVE A PLAN No one ever expects to get into trouble outdoors. But, a turn in the weather, mistake in judgment, unexpected injury, equipment failure, or sudden nightfall can quickly change any recreational outing into a crisis. Does anyone know where you have gone and when you expect to return? TO HELP ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE A SAFE SUMMER TRIP, CHECK OUT THIS ADVENTURESMART TRIP PLAN APP VIDEO: WATCH NOW
Always carry the essentials and know how to use them: • Flashlight • Fire making kit • Signalling device (i.e. whistle) • Extra food and water • Extra clothing • Navigational/communication devices • First aid kit • Emergency blanket/shelter • Pocket knife • Sun protection • Add other equipment specific to your chosen activity, season and location.
6 WestCoastFamilies.com
About adventureSmart BC AdventureSmart, and its suite of five programs, is a national prevention program focused on reaching Canadians, and visitors to Canada, who participate in outdoor recreational activities. In order to provide the largest possible number of Canadians and visitors to Canada with consistent and relevant safety information, and to ensure that opportunities to engage the public are maximized, AdventureSmart and its partners take a broad, encompassing approach to the delivery of adaptable safety information in-person, and online. Through the collaborative efforts of our various partners, regional coordinators, and volunteers, AdventureSmart is dedicated to encouraging participants to “Get informed and go outdoors”.
