Hiking Risk Assessment

Typical hazards & measures

• Injury from carrying heavy backpacks — Teach proper backpack packing techniques and ensure packs are fitted correctly with weight distributed evenly. Limit pack weight to 15-20% of body weight for young hikers.
• Falls from steep descents — Use walking poles and encourage slow, careful steps on steep descents. Instruct participants on proper descent techniques to avoid slips.
• Adverse or extreme weather conditions — Check detailed weather forecasts and monitor conditions prior to and throughout the hike. Adapt routes and schedules to avoid hazardous conditions such as storms, high winds, or extreme heat. Ensure participants have appropriate layered, waterproof, and breathable clothing, sun protection, and sufficient water. Schedule hydration and shade breaks in hot weather and warming breaks in cold conditions. Carry emergency shelter, thermal blankets, and first aid equipment. Avoid exposed ridges, open areas, and flood-prone zones during storms, and have clear contingency plans for shelter or early route termination.
• Head injury from low branches — Instruct participants to stay alert to overhanging branches, particularly in dense wooded areas. Clear branches from the path when possible.
• Snake bites — Educate participants about local snakes and how to avoid them. Wear long pants and boots, and use hiking poles to check undergrowth. Carry a snakebite kit if relevant to the area.