Supervision

Field Trips to Designated Cross-Country

• Proximity supervision is recommended following initial skill instruction and after all safety concerns have been emphasized.
• At least one instructor/leader must possess a CANSI 1 or Community Coaching certification in Cross-Country Skiing or equivalent.
• Suggested guidelines for instructor to student ratio for day cross-country trips to commercial sites:
  • 1:8 ratio (Pre-Kindergarten/ECS Programs)
  • 1:10 ratio (Grades K-3)
  • 1:12 ratio (Grades 4-12)
• When touring, sweep and leader roles should be established.

Instructional Considerations

• Teachers should caution students about use of poles, especially when working close to others.
• Teachers should encourage use of a buddy system.
• When learning games or motion on skis, poles should not be used.

Equipment/Facilities

• Unless guided by qualified back-country guides, cross-country programs should occur only at designated cross-country areas or in schoolyards.
• Snow conditions and weather conditions such as sun, wind and temperature must be checked before proceeding with a cross-country program. When conditions are rated as “poor” or temperatures are extreme (below -20°C including windchill), teachers should refrain from taking students cross-country skiing.
• Students must be taught basic cross-country skills before touring.
• Teachers should familiarize students with the route and boundaries before allowing students to tour. All touring must be led by qualified supervisors.
• Equipment should be checked to ensure proper fitting of boots, proper sizing of skis and poles and suitability of equipment for the activity (wax vs. waxless). Instructors should instruct students on securing boots in bindings and ensure they are properly secured.
• Skiing and snowshoeing should be restricted to non-avalanche terrain. A certified guide must be employed where avalanche terrain exists, but the risk is minimal.