Risks & Dangers in the Natural Environment

Any field trip conducted in a natural environment by Halls Outdoor Education has an inherent degree of risk that we need to be respectful of.

Halls Outdoor Education cannot conduct a field trip that is entirely risk free and totally safe. That, by definition, is impossible. However, we as participating students and staff are able to minimise the amount of risk we expose ourselves to in the field by being appropriately prepared and aware of common dangers and how to avoid them.

The following information is by no means meant to be a definitive list of all possible ways in which we can expose ourselves to potential dangers, but rather a list of common issues we have dealt with throughout the history of the program which have a direct impact upon the safety of students.

We ask that all students take the time to read the following information and contact us if you have any further questions.

Being Prepared

Many issues we deal with whilst in the field in relation to student safety are a direct result of lack of pre-trip preparation. The ISOP website has all the relevant information pertaining to your trip and you need to ensure you read it thoroughly, and download any information (such as this document) relevant to the trip. If we have listed an item for you to bring on this trip then please ensure that you have it. If your trip has a pre-trip meeting it is compulsory that you attend it. University staff are here for your assistance, you should feel free to consult with us by phone, email or in person.

The Australian Sun

The most common complaint we have from students in the past have been directly related to the powerful strength of the Australian sun. You should wear head protection at all times, even in the cooler months - it does not have to be hot to get burnt by the sun in Australia. Before you go swimming, ensure that you have applied sunscreen at least a half hour before you get in the water (otherwise it simply washes off) and you reapply the sunscreen regularly. Wear clothes that offer protection from the sun.

If you start to feel the effects of too much sun exposure (redness of skin, excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea), please inform a staff member before the symptoms worsen.

Dehydration

Closely related to the above topic, you must always ensure that you have an adequate water supply and you regularly drink. You need to consult with staff when you need to refill your water bottle, particularly in Australian national parks.
Snakes & Spiders

We do not expect to come across any snakes and spiders, but in the event that you do see one please ensure that you leave it alone. Most snake bites occur when the snake has been antagonised and feels threatened. To avoid spiders, simply be careful where you put your hands (e.g.... don’t reach down holes or into log hollows, etc).

Getting Lost

Ensure that you don’t leave on your own without telling someone where you are going and when you will return. If you get lost, stay where you are and we will find you. Use a distress signal of three whistle blows or three shouts if possible.

First Aid

If anything occurs and you feel that you require first aid, please let ISOP staff know as soon as possible. We carry comprehensive first aid kits and you might be surprised as to the amount of illnesses and problems we can effectively treat.

Hygiene

Ensure that you wash your hands after you go to the toilet and before preparing any food. Cystitis (urinary tract infections) is common (particularly amongst females) in the outdoor environment so it is asked that you observe proper hygiene, particularly when toileting and/or sexual contact.

Hypothermia

Ensure that you have packed everything that is on the gear list and you inform us if you start to feel too cold. It is very easy to warm people if this is detected early.

Alcohol and other drugs

All alcohol consumption must be done in a responsible manner so that you are not putting yourself or others at risk. All students must be respectful of other students and the general public in relation to the responsible consumption of alcohol. If you fail to consume alcohol responsibly, or put yourself or others at risk through your actions, you may be removed from the field trip. Staff also reserve the right to prevent students from participating in an activity or program if it is suspected they are under the influence of alcohol or any other drugs. Illegal drug use is not permitted or sanctioned at any time.
 
Being attentive

Staff will frequently instruct you whilst in the field. Often these instructions will have a direct impact upon your safety, so it is in your best interest to be attentive and ask questions if you are in any way unsure about anything.

Student Responsibilities

Ultimately, most dangers are extremely avoidable and the onus of self-preservation is placed with each individual student. If you engage in risk taking conduct then it is very possible you will not only injure yourself but others as well. You are expected to behave in a way that will not put yourself or others at risk. Staff reserve the right to remove people from a field trip if overt risk-taking behavior is evident.