Risk and Safety
Safety First!
The best safety practices begin before the trip has even taken place. We do not recommend engaging in any activity or field trip that you yourself are not comfortable with, and without the guidance of an expert. Here is a basic guide to precautions you can take to make sure your group enjoys their trip to the fullest, while staying out of harm’s way.
School Insurance and Policies
It’s important to familiarize yourself with your school’s liability insurance and polices, to ensure that your planned activities are acceptable. This may require you to speak with your Principal or county administration, to confirm that the activities are covered by the school’s existing insurance policy.
Emergencies and Permissions
Risk is inherent when adventuring outdoors, so you can begin with a discussion with your Trailblazers about appropriate safety measures, emergency contact information, medical information (including allergies, existing medical conditions, etc.) and parent permission forms/waivers that must be signed prior to the trips you’ll be taking.
Prepare your students by making them aware of standard procedures for dealing with emergency situations and common scenarios including storms, water safety, and camping during hunting season.
First Aid
Always have a first aid kit on hand. It is also advisable to have someone in your group, preferably an advisor, CPR certified, and Wilderness First Aid certified. Building your own first aid kit ensures you have all the necessary supplies, and you can even tailor your kit to your trip’s specific needs.
- Antibacterial ointment to help prevent infection
- Antihistamine (ex: Benadryl) to treat allergic reactions
- Antiseptic Wipes for disinfecting wounds
- Assorted Adhesive Bandages to cover different sized cuts or wounds
- Bandages of varying size and shape, preferably waterproof
- Blister treatment pads to help heal and prevent blisters
- Butterfly bandages to cover small wounds and cuts
- Compound tincture of benzoin to help seal cuts and wounds
- Gauze pads to clean wounds and apply ointments
- Gloves (disposable) to keep things sanitary when handling wounds
- Ibuprofen or other painkillers
- Instant ice packs
- Insect sting relief treatment
- Medical adhesive tape to secure bandages
- Nonstick sterile pads to prevent infection around wounds
- Safety pins to secure bandages, slings, and dressings
- Tweezers to remove ticks and splinters
School Approval Challenges
You may find that your school administration has concerns with the activities you would like to pursue. While there are some activities that are, unfortunately, not permissible to schools within certain districts, you may be able to work with your Principal to overcome obstacles by considering the following:
- Have other schools in your district engaged in similar activities? In some instances sharing examples of schools that have done similar activities can alleviate concerns. You may contact us at GoOutside@nc.gov to see if this is the case.
- You may be required to take a course, such as kayak safety or Wilderness First Aid. Remember: you can allot a portion of your funding towards your own professional development to assist with this.
- Utilize outdoor learning centers with qualified outdoor professionals and guides. Check to see if your school system has a list of preferred places.
- Discuss the use of additional waivers with your Principal.