4.1 Field Trip Safety Briefing

← Back to 4. Tail Gates and Locals |5. Reporting Your Visit →

This is a check list is designed for a SAPAA field trip. Of course, it works even for a solo trip! It is designed as a script for a trip leader and assumes the activities discussed in 4. Tail Gates and Locals have been completed, such as a Road Survey.

SAPAA's Safety Program Overview: graphic showing 4. Tailgate & Locals.
SAPAA’s Safety Program Overview: graphic showing 4. Tailgate & Locals.

Tail Gate Script

  • Welcome to the [TRIP].
  • Introductions and an ice breaker question (e.g. how many times you have been here).
  • Safety briefing has 7 parts:
    1. Why Are We Here
    2. Key Hazards
    3. Gear You Should Have
    4. Expected Behaviour
    5. Communications
    6. Emergencies: If Something Happens
    7. Final Check
  • 1. Why Are We Here
    • Trip Leader: [Person]; First Aid: [Person]
    • Objectives of the field trip such as particular areas to visit, plants to visit, etc.
    • Participants Role(s)
    • Nearest Hospital
  • 2. Key Hazards for Visit
    • Terrain hazards — uneven ground, loose rock, steep slopes, wetland edges.
    • Vegetation hazards — stinging nettle, thorny shrubs, poison ivy.
    • Wildlife — bears, moose, coyotes, nesting birds; what to do if encountered.
    • Insects – Ticks, mosquitoes, individuals with allergies.
    • Plants – Nettles, poison ivy, rose bushes, etc.
    • Weather — heat, cold, storms, windfall risk.
    • Water hazards — fast‑moving creeks, unstable banks, ice conditions (seasonal).
    • Human‑made hazards — fences, old structures, debris, roads.
  • 3. Required Gear and Personal Preparedness
    • Footwear appropriate for uneven terrain.
    • Water, snacks, sun protection, insect repellent.
    • Clothing layers for changing weather.
    • Any required tools or equipment and safe use expectations.
    • First aid kits (leader‑carried; participants may carry personal kits).
  • 4. Movement and Behaviour Expectations
    • Group movement (together, solo, meet up times).
    • Maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
    • Respect sensitive habitats and avoid trampling vegetation.
    • Follow Leave No Trace principles.
    • Photography and documentation guidelines (if part of the stewardship task).
  • 5. Communication Plan
    • Designated Off Site Contact
    • Check‑in times and regroup points: meet up periodically to share experiences and count noses
    • Radios
    • Cell coverage expectations and backup communication methods.
    • Whistle or signal protocols (e.g., 3 blasts = emergency).
  • 6. Emergency Procedures
    • First aid lead and location of first aid supplies.
    • What to do if someone is injured:
      • Stop the group
      • Notify the leader
      • Provide first aid within training
      • Do not move the injured person unless necessary
      • Evacuation route and meeting point.
      • When and how 911 will be called.
    • If separated: stay put, make noise, use whistle.
    • Wildlife Safety Protocols
      • Bear awareness (make noise, travel in groups, carry bear spray if appropriate).
      • Moose and ungulate safety (give wide berth, never approach).
      • Nesting birds and sensitive species — maintain distance and avoid disturbance.
  • 9. Final Checks Before Departure
    • Confirm everyone has water, gear, and appropriate clothing.
    • Review route, duration, and expected return time.
    • Reconfirm communication and emergency plan.
    • Ensure all participants understand expectations and can opt out if unprepared.
Board Approval / Last Revision Date[DATE] / [DATE]
Board Role Accountable[POSITION] / [EMAIL]
Applies to: All SAPAA Volunteers