Originally Posted by
canoebie
When I take groups out, I spend a great deal of time emphasizing safety to reduce risk. There are risks that are perceived and those that are not. Most do not perceive the drive to wally world as dangerous, yet statistically it most likely is higher.
I do explain to folks I take on canoe trips that in reality the drive to the river is most likely more dangerous than the paddle on the river. However, training and risk management are an essential part of the experience. I have strict "community guidelines" that everyone must sign a waiver agreeing to or they cannot participate. I think this really helps to minimize risk.
A simple thing for example is that I do not allow anyone to run. Reason being is that there are numerous "beaver chews" in the area resulting in stumps 2-6 inches in diameter coming to a perfect point 2-3 feet off the ground. Imagine falling and impaling yourself on one of those. Not to mention an ankle twist, sprain or fracture.
I also illustrate the importance of not taking unnecessary risk with a story of a coleader I took once who wanted to wash his face in the river, stepped on a wet log, slipped and hurt his tailbone so bad he was literally in tears for two days. Or when someone dove into the river to "refresh" and hit their head on a rock that then required some butterflies and superglue, and they could not get wet the rest of the trip. I tell stories not to frighten, but to inform.
These stories then lead to discussion about "unnecessary risk" and I challenge folks to identify those potential risks throughout the trip. It becomes a game that heightens their awareness.
Everything we do has risk, we just have to use the gray matter between our ears to do everything we can to minimize it. Even then, stuff happens. Then we have to be prepared as first responders and take lessons away from potential or real tragedy that will minimize risk brought about by the next opportunity for a great outdoor experience.
I have been paddling for 32 years, and have done up to class IV water with an open canoe. I have been a swimmer on more than one occasion, sometimes unprepared. However as time has passed, I have used the lessons of the past to better prepare for each upcoming trip. I work hard at preparation, and staying in shape. I also have had first aid and advanced CPR training as well as lifeguard training. A little information, well presented combined with using every opportunity that presents itself to teach people while out there makes a huge difference. We learn little from what we hear or see, we learn most from what we do. That is what makes outdoor adventure such a potent tool for changing lives. Working cooperatively with a partner in a canoe or a buddy on a hike can sometimes make life easier, or at other times it may mean saving a life. Either way, learning happens.
Giardia may happen, but with careful hygiene, it can be prevented. Most sprains, cuts, etc. are the result of bad decisions. Burns are usually the result of carelessness, yet there is always a fire bug in every group I take out that I have to teach safety to. I then encourage them to safely tend the fire. We have to be ever vigilant as we use our judgement to keep ourselves safe as well as those for whom we have responsibility.
I learn something every trip. Part of my job, part of my responsibility to those around me, is share the wealth of experience, both good and bad, so they do not suffer through, but rather enjoy their outdoor adventure.
My $.02.
David
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