Supervision

• On-site supervision is recommended following initial skill instruction and after all safety concerns have been emphasized.
• At least 2 instructors / supervisors per group are required at all times.
• Suggested 1:7 ratio of qualified instructors to students.
• A leader should be assigned to the front and back of the group. A leader could be a responsible student. The supervisor(s) can move along the group from front to back.
• The front and back of the group should be within whistle contact of the supervisor(s) at all times.
• Teacher should designate regular rendezvous check sites.
• Route cards should be left with school or other supervising body with emergency contacts and response system planned and in place.

Instructional Considerations

• Except for emergencies, travel should not take place in darkness.
• Day hiking or backpacking should not occur in areas with potential avalanche danger, or where mountaineering techniques are required, unless led by certified mountain guides.
• Teacher / leader should be familiar with, or have access to, mountain rescue techniques, emergency / wilderness first aid and emergency evacuation.
• Teacher should be familiar with route.
• Students should be made familiar with route.
• Students should be aware of emergency procedures and a “signal to assemble.”
• 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.
• Teacher should ensure that wood tick precautions are taken.
• Teacher should inform students of, and enforce, minimum impact camping skills.

Equipment/Facilities

• All necessary equipment should be collected and checked before the trip.
• Teacher should have a map of route (normal and topographic) and a compass (and GPS when possible) and have thorough knowledge of how to use them. A copy of the map and route should be on file at school.
• Each student should carry their own pack.
• If backpacking trip originates from base camp, a map should be left with supervisor at base camp.
• Only designated trails should be used.
• Teachers must check for required permits and specific regulations when taking a group to a provincial or national park area.
• Teacher should register the group at the warden's office, if applicable.
• Helmets should be worn if hiking in areas where rocks could potentially fall on heads.
• Comfortable and durable flat shoes or boots with an aggressive tread (ankle support preferable) should be worn for hiking. A pair of comfortable "camp site" shoes with light treads should be worn at campsite.