earthquest has a solid reputation built on its dedication to safety. while emergencies rarely occur, eq has well established, tested and sensible emergency procedures that have been designed by the instructors to best fit the environments they visit. keep in mind that nothing compares to the experience of eq instructors, and when incidents demand critical and efficient responsiveness as opposed to "textbook" procedures, experience in the field is of utmost importance.
Cathedrals Backpacking Expedition
Location: Cathedral Provincial park, Keremeos
Ratio: 12 : 1
Risk rating:
Rating:Characteristics:
1) Low: -Possibility of cuts scrapes, minor strains, blisters, burns from stoves
2) Medium: -Stumble/slip with minor injuries, heat associated injuries (cramps, sunburn, dehydration)
3) High: -Fall resulting in fracture, internal bleeding, concussion, lost due to weather conditions, lack of water
4) Severe: -Fall from vertical wall, forest fire, animal attack
Perceived risk: Medium
Actual risk: Low
Risk management history at this site:
In 58 semesters there have been only minor injuries including cuts and scrapes, sprains strains, blisters and homesickness several times during the fall semester.
Potential Hazards and Hazard Controls
HazardsHazard control
Weather-Clothing and equipment prep
-extreme temperatures-Continuous evaluation of hikers while on trail-Regular rest, refueling and rehydration breaks
-Seeking shade or shelter
Poor visibility-Group remains tighter always within verbal and visual contact, no stragglers -Slow students move to behind the leader
-Leader/trailer system
-Buddy system
-Every student numbered, knows preceding and following student
-Head count after every stop
-In the Cathedrals there are well-defined trails and cairns throughout
-Use of trails
-All students carry whistles
-Known escape route
-Instructors have extensive knowledge and familiarity with area (58 semesters, instructor Outward Bound Keremeos)
Lack of water/purification-Creek route followed
-Lake water within hiking distance
-Purification Pristeen water purification water system (droplets) or filter system
-Frequent water stops
-Maintain a full container
Shelter/camping skills-Teach camp skills (arriving at camp with sufficient set up time)
-Pre instruction on how to set up tent
-Instruction on lay of the land (potential water run off, wind direction, dead trees or limbs)
-No eating in tents
-No food or fragrance in tents
-Designated group eating area a safe distance from tents
-Bear hangs where needed or use of food storage where available
-Instruction and assistance with stove lighting
-Litter control
Blisters-Instruction on prevention and treatment
Lost student-Established boundaries/camp always visible
-Procedure if lost
-Outlined rescue plan depending on location
Forest fire-Open fires not allowed
-Know evacuation routes
-Lodge within hiking distance
Illness-Assess and treatment
Animal encounter-Safety in numbers
-Whistles
-Night time strategies
-Bear spray/bangers carried by instructors
Student behavior/attitude-Behavioral expectations outlined
and on going throughout the Program
-Emphasize responsibility and accountability
-Continuity within Program expectations and activities
-Town criers
-Continuous emphasis on listening skills
Transportation-School bus
Emergency Procedure/Evacuation Specific to Cathedrals Expedition:
1. Satellite phone available.
2. Support vehicle remains at point of exit.
3. Lodge access range within 3 hours to 20 minutes.
3.Instructor will request ambulance transport if necessary.
4. Post accident communication with student after treatment.
5. Whenever possible ( not at the sake of leaving group unattended) instructor will accompany student to hospital.
4.Parents notified by instructor if serious injury.
5. School notified by instructor if serious injury
Blanket Glacier Back Country Ski Expedition
Location: Blanket Glacier, Monashee Mountain range, approximately 15 minute helicopter flight from Revelstoke. Cabin based expedition that becomes a winter-based classroom allowing us to meet Program objectives. Cabin is located in a safe avalanche free area while terrain is varied enough to allow us to operate in a safe, controlled environment.
Duration: 5 to 6 days
Ratio: Varies, depending on snow stability, weather, skiing ability, terrain and assistant knowledge and ability. Touring ratio varies from 1:3 to 1:6. Maximum group size 12. There are always at least 2 instructors.
1) Low: -Terrain: (gentle, flat, rolling, treed)
-Slope angle: between 10 and 20 degrees
-Route finding: easy
-Avalanche activity: human and naturally triggered avalanche unlikely
-Other factors: wind, fog, snowstorm, heavy snow pack, strains, sprains, being cold
2) Medium: -Terrain: (varied, rolling, tree covered slopes, gentle sparse treed slopes, gentle open slopes, cornices)
-Slope angle: between 15 and 30 degrees
-Route finding: easy with minor challenges
-Avalanche activity: natural avalanche unlikely, human triggered avalanche minimally possible
-Other factors: falling into tree wells, trees, rocks, weather (exposure sunburn, frost bite), equipment failure
3) High: -Terrain: more complex (steep tree covered slopes, steep sparse treed slopes, steep open slopes, cliff bands, crevasse fields, cornices)
-Slope angle: between 35 and 45 degrees
-Route finding: complex
-Avalanche activity: natural avalanche possible, human avalanche probable
-Avalanche size: 1 to 3
-Other factors: fall resulting in fracture, falling into tree wells, lost skier, hypothermia, white out conditions, high winds, blizzards
4) Severe:-Terrain: complex (extremely steep tree covered slopes, steep sparse treed slopes, steep open slopes, cliff bands, crevasse fields, cornices)
-Avalanche activity: natural avalanche is widespread, human triggered definitely
-Avalanche size: 2 to 4
-Other factors: avalanche burial, uncontrollable, unpredictable, difficult rescue, fatality
Perceived risk: High
Actual risk: Low to medium
Risk management history at this site
In 40 semesters there have been sprains sunburn and minor frostbite, no breaks, a half dozen extractions from tree well, numerous equipment alteration and repair in field, and cabin repair shop. Many falls while skiing. Blisters. Fatigue. Illness in cabin (colds, flu), in cabin. Minor injuries in cabin (cuts, scrapes, bumping heads, slipping down steps).
Hazards:Hazard control:
Avalanches-Instructors have extensive experience and knowledge of this area (42 semesters X 2 ).
-If the element of risk is high, we avoid or we simply dont go.
-Students receive an extensive avalanche technology course prior to this expedition
-Prior to this expedition all students are
trained in beacon use and avalanche rescue this is again reinforced at the cabin -Students have and understanding and have rehearsed rescue protocol
-Continued local weather forecasts during the ski season are noted in relationship to snow pack stability -Weekly reference to Canadian Avalanche Association bulletin for South Columbia region is noted and kept on file throughout the ski season
-Discussion with cabin owner prior to arrival regarding conditions
- Upon arrival snow profile is pit dug and Rutch Block test done to analyze snow stability
-Any previous descriptions of weather reports from previous groups is noted
-Twice daily visitation to weather station -Weather recorded twice daily-Discussion with CMH each morning regarding weather, snow stability, avalanche activity
-Daily phone call to environment Canada for weather up dates
-Daily observation while touring and recording
-Group size relative to:
-Weather conditions
-Terrain
-Snow stability
-Student ability
-Knowledge/ability of assistant
-All individuals wear avalanche beacons
-All individuals carry shovels
-All individuals carry first aid kits
-Every individual carries a probe or a probe ski pole
-Instructor carries a VHS radio
-Dig snow profile pit on various aspects while touring
Terrain features-Boundaries set by instructor
-Terrain relative to skier ability and conditions (tours are done in low to medium risk rating)-Frequent stops to discuss routes and take a head count -Continuous evaluation of terrain
-Employ instructors lead and sweep method
-Employ buddy method
Weather-Students appropriate clothing
-Sunscreen
-Continuous evaluation of previous weather from field studies and present weather
-Continual analysis of wind loading
-If poor weather and stability we tour in low risk area or dont go
Equipment failure-Regular inspection and maintenance of skis and related equipment
-Bring repair kit
-Repair shop at cabin
-Bring along extra equipment (also available at cabin)
Injury while skiing-Progressions, learn basic skills at Sovereign lake first
-Refer to course outline for skills introduced
-Skiing level appropriate to difficulty of
terrain
-Buddy system for alert
-Rescue toboggan at cabin
Snow caving/igloos-Snow caves are done within site of cabin
-Instruction on design prior to building
-Instructor insures that location is in an area safe from avalanches, rock fall-Instructor inspects part way through-Instructor inspects completion prior to use
Cabin-Discussion on safety in and around cabin-Discussion on safety of equipment used in or around cabin
Helicopter transport-Safety talk from instructor to all students
-Safety talk from pilot to all students
-Loading / unloading protocol
-Radiophone to call in helicopter
Emergency Procedure/Evacuation Specific to the Blanket Glacier:
1. Radio phone on site.
-CMH
-Helicopter company
-911
2. Helicopter evacuation.
3. Request ambulance transport if necessary.
5. School notified by instructor if serious injury.
Rock Climbing
Location: Ellison provincial park Vernon
Ratio: varies with difficulty of climb anywhere from 1:4 to 1:6
1) Low: possibility of cuts scrapes, minor strains, fear
2) Medium: controlled fall, minor injuries
3) High: fall resulting in fracture, internal bleeding, concussion, partly uncontrollable
4) Severe: fatality, uncontrollable, unpredictable.
In 58 semesters there have been a number of bruises and scrapes, no breaks, minimal sprains (3) no serious injury, just to the ego.
Potential rock fall-Pre site inspection and continuous site
evaluation
Rainy weather/adverse weather-Pre trip cancellation
Rains while out -Call for bussing
Wood ticks-Discussion on tick prevention,
extraction/ first aid
Non climbing incident (slipping-Rules and boundaries, safety lines to access while accessing climb site)climb sites
Equipment failure-Regular inspection and retirement of
ropes (8 climbing sessions/year, ropes retired after 4 years) and equipment
-Instruction on care and maintenance of rope (coiling, carrying, avoid stepping on)
-storage in dry ventilated area
Injury while climbing-Progressions,
-Skill level appropriate to difficulty of climb -Spotters used while bouldering, students allowed only one meter off ground
-Instruction on proper use of equipment
-Using specific climbing commands between climber/belayer,
-Students must demonstrate belay techniques before belaying climber
-Use back up belayer day one climbing
-Safety rope used while rappelling
-Double belay on climbs with potential pendulum swing
-Discussion of route prior to climb
-Designated rope watcher at bottom of climb
-Knots inspected prior to climb (bowline and stopper, double figure 8 and stopper)
-Stoppers (double fisherman) always used on knots
-Harnesses double backed
-Screwgate carabineers only
-Multiple anchor points
-Top rope anchoring systems only
-Only instructors set up systems
-Safety line implemented in situations to enable an easy entry and safe exit from climb site where needed
-Ongoing observation of belayer and climber
-Call bus or parent
Student behavior/attitude-Behavioral expectations outlined and on going throughout the Program
-Consistent and ongoing emphasis on the development of listening skills
Transportation-School bus transportation vehicle
Emergency Procedure and Evacuation Protocol Specific to Rock Climbing
1. Cell phone on site.
2. Bus available anytime, quick access out, the park is located 25 minutes from Vernon Secondary school.
5. Whenever possible (not at the sake of leaving group unattended) instructor will accompany student to hospital.
6.Parents notified by instructor if serious injury.
7. School notified by instructor if serious injury.
River Kayaking
Location: Shuswap river; Enderby side.
Ratio: Varies with difficulty of river section and water level, anywhere from 1:3 to 1:8, overall group size (maximum 12/ two instructors) varies according to season, water volume and objective hazards.
2) Medium: dump with swim, and self or instructor boat rescue
3) High: caught in sweeper, hole ,rock, requiring instructor boat and/or throw bag rescue
4) Severe: pinning/entrapment, drowning, uncontrollable, unpredictable.
Perceived risk: Very high
Actual risk: Low to medium depending on water volume and objective hazards.
In 53 semesters there have been no breaks, no sprains, one dislocation of shoulder, but no serious injuries. Numerous swims and boat rescues.
Sweepers, holes, rocks, log jams, -All students and instructors wear approved boils, strong eddy currents PFDs, helmets, wet suits, spray skirts,
-Instructors carry throw bags, wear tow belts with carabineers and carry knives
-Pre river inspection and continuous evaluation of river -removal of sweepers where possible
-Explaining dangers to students and strategy
for avoidance
-Evaluate risk and skill level then consider a) Reducing ratio
b) One paddler at a time past hazard
c) Portage
-Employ lead sweeper method
-Controllable group distance
Communication-paddle signals used and practiced prior to
embarking
-Students have an understanding and have rehearsed rescue protocol
Weather-Students wear wet suits, windbreakers,
hand protection
-Adequate post paddle clothing
Lightening-Evacuate river
Equipment failure-Regular inspection and maintenance boats and related equipment
Injury while paddling-progressions, learn basic skills on lake first
-Paddling level appropriate to difficulty of
river
-Bus is there
Transportation-School bus Transportation vehicle
Emergency Procedure/Evacuation Specific to River Kayaking
2. Bus and support vehicle remain at river, quick access out.
Clayoquot Sound Surf Kayaking Expedition
Location: Kutcous, Flores Island, Clayoquot Sound
Ratio: Varies between activities and number of student participating. Generally a full-class trip with a minimum of two fully certified instructors. Students are limited to how many of them may participate in certain activities at a given time.
Activities:
Activities on this based camp expedition include, surf kayaking, skim boarding, wave jumping, hiking, beach games, kite flying, First Nations studies. We have rules for all the fore mentioned activities to ensure student safety and will briefly address these as many of the safety components have been already addressed in previous sections.
•Wave jumping:
-Instructor supervision
-No deeper than waist
-Boundaries established
-Ocean dangers discussed
•Skim boarding:
-3 cm or less in water
-Area boundaries
•Camping:
-Refer to backpacking and sea kayaking
-Well established and recognized boundaries
1) Low: -Swallowing water
2) Medium: -Cuts, scrapes, bruises, muscle strain, capsize
3) High: -Broken nose, dislocated shoulder, fractured
rib, minor concussion
4) Severe: -Swept out to sea swimming
In 58 semesters there have been only minor injuries including cuts and scrapes, muscle soreness, bumps to body, numerous shallow water dumps.
Huge waves and or breakers-Do not enter water
Cold water exposure-Kids come out to warm up
Rip tides-Avoid these areas
-Education prior to trip
Boats dumping-Instruction on surf technique
-Instructors use paddle signals
-Self rescue technique
-Buddy spotter
-Participation optional
Rocks-No rocks in area, beautiful flat sandy beach
Collision-Instruction boat etiquette
-Specified area surfers only, no skimmers
Beach topography-Flat, sandy, rock free beach, 1km long and
400 meters wide at mid tide
Waves-Small waves and soup surfing
-Wave control by instructors with whistle and paddle signals
Emergency Procedure/Evacuation Specific to Clayquot:
1. Cell phone, marine radios.
2. Water taxi available at request. (15 minutes to site)
3. Ahousat village an hour and a half from camp.
4. Coast guard helicopter from Tofino.
5.. Post accident communication with student after treatment.
6. Whenever possible ( not at the sake of leaving group unattended) instructor will accompany student to hospital.
7.Parents notified by instructor if serious injury.
8. School notified by instructor if serious injury.
Sea Kayaking Expedition
Location: Gulf Islands - Students moving between islands, camping primarily in marine parks.
Ratio: 1 to 7 with two fully certified instructors
1) Low: -Wind: calm to light breeze
-Sea: mirror to ripple
-Crossing: mostly protected, open water distance one half mile
-Possible capsize: unlikely
-Other: Sunburn, fatigue, hand blister, wet, muscle stiffness (paddling, carrying),
2) Medium:-Wind: gentle breeze to 10 knots
-Sea: small waves, scattered whitecaps
-Possible capsize: somewhat likely
-Crossing: 1 mile
-Other: group scattering, seasickness
3) High: -Wind: moderate breeze up to 15 knots
-Sea: moderate waves, numerous white caps
-Possible capsize: possible
-Crossing: more than 1 mile
-Other: swim and rescue
4) Severe: -Wind: strong to gale force
-Sea: large breaking waves, foam, and possible spin drift
-Possible capsize: probable
-Other: difficult swim and rescue
Actual risk: Low to medium depending on weather, wave conditions.
In 34 semesters there have been no breaks, no sprains, no serious injuries. Occasional seasickness and blisters. Two capsizes in singles with easy group rescue, neither related to sea conditions, but lack of concentration.
Weather/sea conditions -All students and instructors wear approved PFDs, wet suits (cold weather), spray skirts,
-Instructors carry throw bags, wear tow belts with carabineers
-Instructors have extensive experience and knowledge of local weather/wind pattern(34semester x 2)
-Progressions, learn basic skills on lake first
-Paddling skill level appropriate to demands of the ocean environment
-Instructors use tide tables and charts continually
-Outline dangers and strategy for avoidance-Instructors carry marine radios and one cell phone in water proof case-employ lead sweeper method and rugby formation method whenever possible -Buddy system
-Controllable group within talking distance
-Because of larger numbers we now use only double kayaks
-All students must master the bow rudder
-Bow rudder practiced on lake and at sea
-Listen to daily marine weather reports
-If conditions are unfavorable /high risk, we stay on the island
-If conditions fail to improve and we are stranded we have emergency contact water taxi transport
Communication-Paddle signals used and practiced prior to
Equipment failure-Regular inspection and maintenance of boats and related equipment
-Water taxi and bus available for evacuation
Emergency Procedure/Evacuation Specific to Sea kayaking
1. Cell and marine radios on site.
2. Bus /support vehicle and water taxi available upon request.
