Multi-activity camping trips require the review and understanding of all additional relevant activity guidelines.

Supervision

• On-site supervision is required at all times following initial skill instruction and after all safety concerns have been emphasized.
• Suggested guidelines:
  • Distant overnight camping 1:8 ratio of qualified instructor/supervisor to students.
  • Local overnight camping 1:15 ratio of qualified instructor/supervisor to students.
  • Minimum of 3 staff be present for winter camping.
• Lead instructors/supervisors must have previous winter camping experience.
• Route cards should be left with school or other supervising body with emergency  contacts and response system planned and in place.
• Teacher should notify wardens in advance regarding the trip plans, dates, specific activities and locations within Provincial and National Parks. For trips outside of parks, local RCMP or Search & Rescue detachment notification is recommended.
• For Winter Overnight Expeditions: Before assuming leadership of a group, activity supervisors must have documentation showing a minimum of ten (10) winter overnight outings.

Instructional Considerations

• Heat loss principles should be taught.
• Fire-building skills should be taught, including the use of Swedish firesteel.
• Students should be informed of layering clothing principles.
• If lean-to camping, inspect ridge pole prior to occupancy.
• ‘Safe’ shelter building skills should be taught.
• Students should be instructed in outdoor winter survival techniques.
• A systematic pattern for group travel and communication should be established.
• Supervisors should check heat sources and monitor their use.
• Program should be planned in detail with contingency plans for inclement weather.
• All food items, gum, sunscreens, repellents and cosmetics (including toothpaste and deodorant) should not be allowed in tents or kept in tents at night. They should be stored in bear-proof containers or vehicles located a safe distance from students.
• Students should only use axes and saws following a detailed instructional session and under supervision of a qualified supervisor.
• Students should only use knives following instruction and under supervision.
• Students filling and lighting camp stoves should be under constant visual supervision following instruction.
• Students should be aware of behavioural expectations, boundaries for activity, and assembly procedures.
• No open flame should be allowed in or near tents.
• Eating and sleeping areas should be separated by at least 50 m.

Equipment/Facilities

• Matches in waterproof containers should be kept in multiple places.
• Teacher should bring a lightweight camp stove.
• Students should have a four-season sleeping bag or equivalent.
• Sleeping mat / insulation pad should be used under sleeping bag.
• Students should bring a dry change of clothing.
• Each student should have a whistle or whistle-sounding device.
• Teacher should select facilities/sites based on the age and experience of students.
• Teacher should check site for dangerous overhanging dead trees.
• If cooking on stoves, use propane/liquid gas type stoves (1 per 8 students).
• Ensure that enough fuel is available of the duration for the trip.
• Location of camp must be accessible by snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle.
• Teachers must check for required permits or regulations when camping in provincial or national parks areas.