Involve guardians, other field staff, and experienced land and water users in risk management planning. They will have much to contribute toward identifying and planning for risks, and providing detailed local information (i.e. tides, terrain, weather, hazards, etc.).
Make ‘continuous competence’ the foundation of your program - ensure that all staff are up to date with their safety and first aid certificates and knowledge and know how to use safety equipment (such as inflatables and first aid equipment, and SPOT devices).
Ensure that staff understand the risks involved in their work and that everyone on the crew is prepared to lead under emergency conditions. All crew members must have a minimum level of competency in boat or vehicle operations and a base knowledge of how to deal with local hazards or risks on the territory.