What Causes Wilderness Emergencies?

Wilderness emergencies caused by sudden, unpredictable changes in conditions may be unavoidable BUT: Ignorance, inattentiveness, bravado , and lack of preparedness cause more wilderness emergencies than sudden changes in conditions. IGNORANCE of terrain, climate, skill level or physical health of groups and individuals. IGNORANCE of skills required to conduct the activity safely. IGNORANCE of risks inherent in the activity. KNOW where you are going, who is going, and what you need to stay safe. INATTENTIVENESS to changes in conditions. INATTENTIVENESS to a participant’s state of mind and physical condition. INATTENTIVENESS to the risks inherent in the activity. PAY ATTENTION to participants, conditions, and risks. BRAVADO that blinds us to our own limitations. BRAVADO of a group that obscures the obvious risk. BRAVADO of trying to impress others. RESPECT LIMITATIONS don’t be foolish. LACK OF PREPAREDNESS not having the proper gear for the activity. LACK OF PREPAREDNESS failing to study and understand risks. LACK OF PREPAREDNESS not assessing suitability and limitations of participants. BE PREPARED bring the gear, knowledge and skills required to assure safety.

Sudden changes in the weather, the terrain, or the ability of a participant to carry on demand we STOP; REASSESS, and CHANGE PLANS . If you’d like to print this infographic download the PDF file below formatted for 8 1/2 x 14 paper. BEFORE YOU CLICK THE DOWNLOAD BUTTON Consider joining all the other great folks who have become Backers!

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