Guide Safety Checklist

Guide Safety Checklist

All expedition leaders are expected to conduct expeditions safely and are encouraged to consider the following checklist in their planning and implementation:

Operations Manual

Complete a comprehensive Operations Manual that coordinates you and your support team in the event of an emergency

Support Network

Ensure you have an off-ice support network whom can be relied on for communications and emergency response

Inform Clients

Ensure clients are adequately informed of the realities of a polar expedition

Client Medical Information

Collect medical histories and information from all clients and carry this information on the expedition

Medical Kit

Carry a polar-dedicated comprehensive medical kit with in-date medicines

Current Wilderness First-Aid

Ensure that you are current in wilderness first-aid practices

Client Clothing and Equipment

Check suitability, quality and condition of client clothing and equipment prior to departure

Area-Specific Equipment Lists

Check the recommended equipment list specific to your area/s of operation

Final Checklist

Complete a final master checklist prior to departure to ensure nothing is left behind

Well Maintained Equipment

Maintain your equipment so that it performs adequately for intended purpose and duration

Repair Kit

Carry a well-stocked repair kit that covers predictable malfunctions and breakages

Storage of Stove Fuel

Store stove fuel in robust and leakproof containers

Use of Stoves

Ensure your clients are informed and skilled in the safe and efficient operation of camp stoves

Avoid Tent Fire

Ensure tents and stoves are organised and used in a way that minimises the chance of tent fire

Communications

Carry appropriate communications devices and backups

Navigation

Carry appropriate maps, compasses and GPS and set correct map datum and conventions

Power

Ensure you have adequate power to operate communications and navigation devices for the expedition duration

Campsite Selection

Select safe campsites, considering drift, crevasses, wind, wildlife and aircraft, and mark boundaries if movement is restricted

Polar Travel Skills

Ensure your skills are current for the environment you are operating in

Weather Forecasting

Be vigilant for changes in weather and act accordingly and swiftly in the event of severe weather

Extreme Conditions

Ensure your clients are adequately supervised during extreme ice, weather, and wildlife events

Aircraft Operations

Ensure your clients follow the recognised procedures pertaining to the aircraft you are flying with