Contingency Plans

It might seem like a great idea to pack a bag and be off on the trail. But what if something goes awry - do you have a plan for that?

Before setting off it is important to consider and plan for your trip:

Safety Considerations

1. Environment - alpine, desert, marine, remote, tropical - hot, wet, cold, dry - prepare appropriate packing list for the environment, eg hot/desert will require more water, wide brimmed hat and sunscreen; alpine will require warm clothes.

2. Route - plan the route and prepare navigation data sheets.

3. Escape - consider alternative routes and escape points

4. Transportation - evaluate options for transporting a patient if required

5. Water - ensure adequate water supply and note refill points

6. Communication - determine if mobile phone use will be possible and consider alternatives, such as Personal Locator Beacon or Satellite phone.

Ensure you have planned for the worse case scenario, how you will deal with it and what equipment will be available to you.

Prior to departure

1. Ensure all members know the route to be taken and action to take if the party becomes separated

2. Nominate a group leader who can take charge if need be

3. Check weather forecasts and abort if not suitable to depart

4. Leave route details and intended date and time of return with a responsible person. Ensure they are briefed on the action to be taken if the party is late to return

5. Ensure all party members have appropriate equipment and clothing

6. Ensure all party members have adequate food, water and fuel

7. Ensure all party members have a personal first aid kit and that one or more group first aid kits are available also

8. Ensure the group has adequate communication and navigation equipment

For our trip I have started a spreadsheet for all group members to note their personal details, allergies, emergency contact person, etc