FIELD TRIP INSURANCE AND SAFETY
ing rock while driving on a public road is one thing. Standing beneath a cliff during a field trip is something else. However, is a hard hat really sufficient protection in such cases? Skiing and motorcycle helmets with crushable liners provide better protection than hard hats but the size of the falling rock still is very important.
Other field trip hazards included slippery areas due to mud, snow, ice, or loose pebbles; nasty plants like cholla cactus or those with thorns; dangerous local fauna such as rattlesnakes; grizzly bears, and zika- or malaria-carrying mosquitos; high temperatures; severe storms (hail and tornados); etc. These are hazards the field trip leader should know about and should provide potential participants with appropriate information and hazard-avoidance instructions. The strenuousness of a trip is another aspect that should be included in the trip’s description. Is a steep or long hike involved? Is this a trip that the physically handicapped can participate in? Are accom- modations for such participants provided? Are food allergies accommodated in lunch and snack offerings?
RMAG’s “Accident and Emergency Plan” for field trips is worth considering and perhaps formally adopting. Its check- list form items are:
Pre-Trip Plans
Leaders will have advance experience with the trip route.
An outline of geology and trip logistics will be provided for participants.
Materials include a map showing the route and stops (with Lat/Lon locations).
Show Route itinerary, with times and diving-distances.
Advise as to weather potential and necessary protec- tive clothes.
Encourage participants to arrive physically fit. Participants may need to hike more distance than described, prepare for temperature extremes, and be ready to assist all who may need help. Those who have medical issues should have written instructions prepared for the Leaders – to be returned at trip-end and no incident.
Declare principal contacts (usually Field Trip Leaders and RMAG logistics people) and make phone numbers and emails available.
Field Trip Day
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers: organize a Pre- Trip meeting with all participants to review the route, stops, timing, distances, unscheduled stops, and overall tour—as made available in Pre-Trip Plans.
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers collect partici- pant data-sheets (which includes: participant names, phones, addresses, a contact-person, and RMAG release of liability)
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers distribute this Accident and Emergency Plan to Participants – advise all to read and know the contents.
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers identify location of a first-aid kit and a case of bottled water. At least one first-aid kit will be included with the field trip. Leaders, RMAG Logistics volunteers, and Participants may not be trained in First Aid or CPR, though they may provide First Aid and CPR to the best of their abilities as the situation requires.
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers advise partici- pants of potential hazards through the trip.
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers make a head- count; note vehicle association and vehicle drivers.
Drivers – be ready to account for whereabouts of your passengers at head-counts, Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers designate and describe the Lead Car and Trailer Car.
Participants inform Leaders or RMAG Logistics volun- teers of mobility and health issues; condition for the trip.
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers advise the group as to stops for food, hydration, and relief.
During the Field Trip
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers make sure adequate parking space is found for vehicles at stops. Trip vehicles interfering with public traffic flow is unacceptable.
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers assess mobility and condition of participants – adjust accordingly.
Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers take a head- count before moving to the next stop; collect all missing people.
Participants who need to slow or stop - find a Helper who will also stay behind; and be sure to inform the trip Leaders or RMAG Logistics volunteers
All - increase awareness, anticipate elements of the hike, and note others’ conditions through the trip.
Driving
Drivers carry precious cargo – so drivers will use extra caution and practice defensive driving through the day.
Drivers will minimize passing and speeding through the day; obey posted speed limits.
Seat belts on for all while in motion.
Driver responsibility – Be Alert! Yield driving to a pas- senger if Driver is drowsy or unfocused.
For any unplanned stop, or departure from the trip— inform a Field Trip Leader or RMAG Logistics volun- teer.
Passenger responsibilities – monitor the Driver and other Passengers for safe conditions; anticipate moves of people and gear into and out of the car.
On the return-trip, stop for refreshments before mov- ing on.
www.aipg.org
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