Trailhead Talk

• Assess footwear, other clothing
• Check for water bottles; ask people if they have 2 liters water
• Circle up, do introductions around the circle
• Specific description of the hike – huddle to review the route on the map:
  • Review the route
  • Review the pace: slow, moderate, fast?
  • How long will we be hiking?
  • Describe when/where we'll break for lunch, etc.
  • Any special features (stone walls, cellar holes, caves, etc.) for which we should be on the lookout
• Risks:
  • Trail may have sustained erosion damage; roots and loose stones may cause you to trip
  • Sunburn and insect bites
  • Foliage
  • Dehydration – make sure you have water
  • Temperature is a factor. Remove layers if you're getting too warm!
  • Remember: you are responsible for your own safety and wellbeing
• Practices:
  • The group should not become separated on the trail.
  • Everyone waits at a trail intersection (or junction) for the last person to arrive.
  • Sweep – volunteers to be the last person in line, to ensure no one is left behind. Important job.
  • Separation break – when the genders go different directions to go in the woods. If you leave the group to go to the bathroom, make sure the Sweep knows you've left.
  • Leave No Trace – take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints.
  • Be mindful of other the physical condition of other participants
• Does anyone know animal tracks? Trees and plants?
• Who's carrying the first aid kit? Extra water? Other emergency gear?
• Who has wilderness first aid training? CPR? Any other first aid or medical training?
• Safety:
  • Every individual is responsible for having the appropriate skills, physical conditioning, equipment and supplies.
  • The safety of the individual assures the safety of the group.
  • Notify me privately of any condition or limitation which could affect your enjoyment of the trip, your safety, or the outcome of the trip.
  • Not speaking up when there's a problem jeopardizes the individual's safety, and that of the group.