Girl Guides Queensland ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES MANUAL © 2011 Girl Guides Queensland Girl Guides Queensland 17 Gould Rd Herston QLD 4006 PO Box 739 Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 P: (07) 3252 3061 F: (07) 3252 4814 E: [email protected] W: www.guidesqld.org Document ID Version Author/s Distribution Previous Editions QP.AA.05 July 2011 Adventurous Activities Adviser and Outdoors Manager Support Centre First Published: November 1997 Revised Editions: September 2005, December 2006 Page ii Adventurous Activities Manual CONTENTS Contents ..................................................................................................................................................iii Introduction ..............................................................................................................................................1 Activities ..................................................................................................................................................2 Planning Procedure for Adventurous Activities LiC .................................................................................4 Guidelines for Leaders in Charge ............................................................................................................5 Guidelines for Assessors, Instructors and Activity Leaders .....................................................................6 Emergency Procedure .............................................................................................................................7 Duty of Care ............................................................................................................................................8 Points to Remember ................................................................................................................................8 Adventurous Activities Procedures .....................................................................................................9 Abseiling Procedure ...........................................................................................................................10 Board Surfing Procedure ...................................................................................................................13 Body Surfing Procedure .....................................................................................................................15 Boom Netting Procedure ...................................................................................................................17 Canoe/Kayaking (Beginners) Procedure ...........................................................................................19 Canoeing/Kayaking (Canoeist - basic skills) Procedure ....................................................................21 Climbing (Artificial surfaces - gym/wall climbing) Procedure .............................................................23 Climbing (Natural surfaces - rock climbing) Procedure .....................................................................26 Cycling in Heavy Traffic Procedure ....................................................................................................29 Fencing Procedure ............................................................................................................................33 Field Archery Procedure ....................................................................................................................35 Four Wheel Driving Procedure ..........................................................................................................37 High Ropes Courses Procedure ........................................................................................................39 Horse riding Procedure ......................................................................................................................41 Orienteering in Bush Areas Procedure ..............................................................................................43 Pistol Shooting Procedure .................................................................................................................45 Prussiking Procedure .........................................................................................................................47 Rafting Procedure ..............................................................................................................................49 Rifle Shooting Procedure ...................................................................................................................51 Rogaining Procedure .........................................................................................................................53 Sailboarding Procedure .....................................................................................................................55 Sailing (Small craft) Procedure ..........................................................................................................57 Scuba Diving Procedure ....................................................................................................................60 Snorkelling (Water over shoulder deep) Procedure ...........................................................................62 Snow Camping Procedure .................................................................................................................64 Adventurous Activities Manual Page iii Snow Skiing Procedure .....................................................................................................................66 Snow Tobogganing Procedure ...........................................................................................................68 Trailbike Riding Procedure.................................................................................................................70 Water Skiing and Tobogganing Procedure ........................................................................................72 Not So Adventurous Activity Guidelines.............................................................................................75 Coracles, Homemade Rafts, Rubber Rafts or Dinghies and other Inflatable Toys Guidelines ..........76 Low Ropes Courses Guidelines ........................................................................................................78 Pedal Boats and Sea Bikes Guidelines .............................................................................................80 Rollerblading/Inline Skating Guidelines .............................................................................................82 Snorkelling (Water less than shoulder deep) Guidelines ...................................................................84 Skateboarding Guidelines ..................................................................................................................86 Swimming Guidelines ........................................................................................................................88 Target Archery Guidelines ..................................................................................................................90 Glossary of Terms ..............................................................................................................................92 Bibliography .......................................................................................................................................93 Page iv Adventurous Activities Manual INTRODUCTION ► IMPORTANT NOTE: Pages 1 to 8 are to be read in conjunction with activity procedures and guidelines. Safety rules apply to all members of the Association, at all times, and are to be strictly observed. This can save lives and also protect leaders from litigation. This manual should be read in conjunction with Guide Lines, Chapter 6, ‘Adventurous Activities’. ‘An adventurous activity is one which contains a significant element of risk to those taking part. Guides Australia requires the person in charge to have specific knowledge and skills relevant to the activity or to ensure that the Instructors have such knowledge and skills.’ Adventurous activities only become dangerous when safe practice and standard operating procedures are ignored. Safety, challenge and fun must be correctly balanced, so that participants are adequately safeguarded and will achieve maximum benefit from the experience. Although the need for encouragement is recognised, individuals are not to be pressed if they choose not to participate in an activity. Leadership, equipment and preparation must be of a very high standard. Therefore, the procedures to be followed are thorough and must be complied with. They apply to all adventurous activities and are minimum requirements. More stringent conditions may be enforced if considered necessary. If a proposed activity is not included in this manual, contact the Support Centre at least six weeks prior to the planned activity, as an appropriate procedure will have to be written and approved. If possible, include a draft procedure or any relevant details, which should be included in the procedure. These activity procedures and guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction. They are to assist girls and Leaders to understand some of the details to be considered when making a decision to learn or to participate in a specific adventurous/notso-adventurous activity. They also enable parents to give informed consent. They are meant as a guide for Assessors/Instructors/Activity Leaders and potential Assessors/Instructors/Activity Leaders to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Commercial establishments/operators may be considered for ratification upon completion and submission of the Ratification Application and Renewal form (QF.AA.02). If individuals are not listed, the manager of the establishment must give an undertaking that all personnel used for Girl Guides Queensland activities are suitably qualified and experienced, and that Guide Lines and adventurous Activity Leaders ► Ensure that participants have sufficient skill and experience and are competent and mature enough to undertake the activity safely without a ratified Instructor being present. (Requirements will vary according to the level of participation eg. four-wheel drivers as opposed to four-wheel drive passengers.) ► Ensure the safe conduct of the activity. ► Are not approved to instruct or assess members. Instructors ► Train participants to a standard of competency established by government bodies, government recognised bodies, or, if unavailable, by community bodies knowledgeable in that activity. ► Ensure the safe conduct of activities. ► May be approved to assess some skills qualifications. They are not approved to assess Instructor qualifications. Assessors ► Ensure that potential candidates have the technical expertise and instructional skills required by Girl Guides Queensland before issuing qualifications and recommending them as Instructors ► Ensure the safe conduct of activities. ► Act as Instructors. activities procedures will be followed. Public liability insurance is also a requirement. Girl Guides Queensland reserves the right to impose on a ratification any conditions, limitations or restrictions it deems appropriate, and may suspend or cancel any ratification. A suspension or cancellation will be effective immediately the holder is notified and is subject to appeal to the State Outdoors Manager. Any comments or suggested amendments regarding the information contained in this booklet should be forwarded to the State Outdoor Activities Manager. ► For the purposes of this Manual, the verbs ‘must’, ‘should’ and ‘may’ are to be interpreted as follows: ‘must’ an absolute requirement. ‘should’ is strongly recommended that this course of action be taken if possible. ‘may’ if it is deemed necessary, advisable or desirable in the circumstances. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 1 ACTIVITIES Adventurous Activities Adventurous activities, which require an Activity Consent Form (ADM.27 or ADM.28) and Adventurous Activity Permission (QF.AA.01) Scuba Diving Ski biscuiting # Snorkelling (Water over shoulder deep) Snow Camping Abseiling Snow Skiing Blue water sailing # Snow Tobogganing Board Surfing Spear fishing # Bob sledding # Trailbike Riding Body Surfing Water Skiing and Tobogganing Boom Netting Canoeing/Kayaking (Beginners) Canoeing/Kayaking (Canoist - Basic Skills) Cascading # Caving # Climbing (Artificial Surfaces - Gym/Wall Climbing) Climbing (Natural Surfaces - Rock Climbing) Cycling in Heavy Traffic Expeditions and Wilderness Walking Fencing * Field Archery Four Wheel Driving Grass skiing # High Ropes Courses Horse Riding Jet skiing # Knee boarding # Orienteering in Bush Areas Pistol Shooting Power boating # Prussiking Rafting Rifle Shooting Rogaining Rowing # Sailboarding Sailing (Small Craft) Page 2 Adventurous Activities Manual ► NOTE * not listed in Guide Lines as adventurous activities, but have been designated as adventurous activities in Queensland. # do not have any written procedures and should be checked with the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee (AARC) or Water Activities Committee (WAC). Not-so-Adventurous Activities Activities Not Approved Not-so-adventurous activities, which require an Activity Consent Form (ADM.27 or ADM.28) but NOT Adventurous Activity Permission (QF.AA.01) Guide members cannot participate in these activities unless special insurance cover can be arranged (contact the Support Centre for details). Note that permitted activities change annually depending on the terms of our Insurance coverage and the most recent list in Guide Lines should be consulted. BMX Bush walking Coracles, Home Made Rafts, Rubber Rafts or Dinghies and other inflatable toys Air Activities Cycling Bow hunting Field Archery Bungee jumping Flying foxes Cable hang gliding Fun runs Car Rallies Hiking Caving Ice blocking Cave diving Ice-skating DIY Flying foxes Initiative courses Gliding/soaring when in operational control of the glider Land sailing Low ropes Courses Martial arts Mountain bike riding Obstacle courses Orienteering on recognised trails Pedal boats and Sea Bikes Pioneering activities Rafting (slow flowing and shallow water) Rollerblading/Inline Skating Skateboarding Snorkelling (water less than shoulder deep) Hot air ballooning Indoor sky diving Motor races Motor transport rallies eg. banana/mud bash Parachuting Parascending Parasailing Potholing Ultra-light aircraft flying Water craft over 8metres (except Public transport) White water rafting Swimming Target Archery Trampolining Walkathon Water slides Where activities appear on both adventurous and notso-adventurous lists, the relevant procedure outlines the conditions under which the activity is classed as an adventurous activity. Where activities with a significant element of risk appear on neither list, the status of the activity should be checked with AARC or WAC. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 3 PLANNING PROCEDURE FOR ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES LIC Read appropriate section in Guide Lines (containing the policy, organisation and rules of Guides Australia), State Insurance Booklet dealing with adventurous activities and Queensland’s Adventurous Activities Manual. Check that the Assessor/Instructor/Activity Leader is ratified by Girl Guides Queensland OR has the specific skills as required by the procedure if a ratified instructor is not Ratified Not Ratified Complete an Activity Consent Form (ADM.27 or ADM.28) and Adventurous Activity Permission form (QF.AA.01). Start ratification process by completing a Ratification Application And Renewal form (QF.AA.02) and forward to Support Centre at least three months prior to the activity. Obtain relevant signature/s. Notes ► For State organised activities, the validation section of the Adventurous Activity Permission form (QF.AA.01) may be signed by the State Commissioner or the State Outdoors Manager. ► Validation of the Adventurous Activity Permission form (QF.AA.01) form must be by the District Leader or any of the following: Region Adventurous Activities Consultant, Region Camping Consultant or Region Water Activities Consultant. If the ratified Instructor or LiC of the activity is the District Leader, Region Adventurous Activities Consultant, Region Camping Consultant or Region Water Activities Consultant, the validation on the Adventurous Activity Permission form (QF.AA.01) form must be by another of the approved validators. If no other approved validator is available in the Region, contact State Outdoor personnel. Page 4 Adventurous Activities Manual GUIDELINES FOR LEADERS IN CHARGE ► They must ensure the activity is adequately covered by Girl Guides Queensland’s insurance policy and, if applicable, the body controlling the intended activity. For commercial establishments either a copy of the current Insurance policy OR a certificate of currency must be sighted. ► They must ensure that the Assessor/Instructor/Activity Leader is ratified by Girl Guides Queensland (if a ratified Instructor/Assessor/Activity Leader is required). A list of ratified personnel is held by the appropriate Region and State Consultant. If a ratification card is produced as proof of ratification, it must be current. Ratifications are for a maximum of three years and are reviewed at this time or earlier if applicable by the relevant State Committee. ► They must take the Activity Consent Form For Youth Members (ADM.27) and/or Adult Information Form For Activities (ADM.28) to the activity, as the Assessor/ Instructor/Activity Leader may ask to see them. ► All consent forms: • for Youth members, must be retained for three years from when the participant turns 18 years of age ie on their 21st birthday unless there is an incident – then forms are kept indefinitely; • for Adult members, three years from the date of the event/activity unless there is an incident – then forms are kept indefinitely. ► They must obtain permission from the District Leader or Region Adventurous Activities Consultant, Region Camping Consultant, Region Water Activities Consultant by using the Adventurous Activity Permission form (QF. AA.01) form. ► They must ensure that everyone who participates in the activity has returned a correctly completed consent form (ADM.27 or ADM.28) prior to the activity. If this is not done, then that person cannot participate in the activity. Incomplete forms may invalidate insurance. ► They, in consultation with the ratified Assessor/ Instructor/Activity Leader, must ensure that details of the emergency procedure outlined in the Adventurous Activities Manual on page 7 have been determined to suit the activity and location eg. means of communication with emergency services. ► They must ensure that all participants are briefed in safety and emergency procedures. ► They, in consultation with the ratified Assessor/ Instructor/Activity Leader, must ensure that all members of the group comply with any Commonwealth, State, and Council Laws/Bylaws that apply. ► They must be present for the duration of the activity. If this is not possible eg. required at base camp, then the LiC must appoint an Activity LiC who then takes on the responsibilities of LiC at the activity. ► The LiC or ratified Assessor/Instructor/Activity Leader has the right to stop the activity if the physical or emotional well-being of the participants is in question. If one says the activity is not to proceed, the other cannot override the decision. Otherwise the ratified Assessor/ Instructor/Activity Leader has complete control of the activity. However, the LiC is still responsible for the conduct of the participants. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 5 GUIDELINES FOR ASSESSORS, INSTRUCTORS AND ACTIVITY LEADERS ► They must ensure that they have been ratified in writing by Girl Guides Queensland and that the ratification is current. Ratifications are for a maximum of three years and are reviewed at this time or earlier if applicable. ► They must have knowledge of, and adhere to, current Guide Lines requirements AND adventurous activities procedures as detailed in this manual. ► They have complete control of the activity. However, if the Leader in Charge (LiC) believes that the physical or emotional wellbeing of the participants is in question then she has the right to stop the activity. If the ratified Assessor/Instructor/Activity Leader or LiC halts the activity, then no one can override the decision ► They must ensure that all participants are briefed in safety and emergency procedures. Responsibilities Activity Leaders ► Ensure that participants have sufficient skill and experience and are competent and mature enough to undertake the activity safely without a ratified Instructor being present. (Requirements will vary according to the level of participation eg four-wheel drivers as opposed to four-wheel drive passengers.) ► Ensure the safe conduct of the activity. ► Are not approved to instruct or assess Members. Instructors ► Train participants to a standard of competency established by government bodies, government recognised bodies, or, if unavailable, by community bodies knowledgeable in that activity. ► Ensure the safe conduct of activities. ► May be approved to assess some skills qualifications. They are not approved to assess Instructor qualifications. Assessors ► Ensure that potential candidates have the technical expertise and instructional skills required by Girl Guides Queensland before issuing qualifications and recommending them as Instructors. ► Ensure the safe conduct of activities. ► Act as Instructors. Page 6 Adventurous Activities Manual EMERGENCY PROCEDURE If an emergency or incident should occur during a planned activity, the appropriate course of action detailed in the Guides Australia Emergency Response Plan must be followed. Situations which can be immediately brought under control without outside assistance and without attracting media attention (Class 3 emergency) can be dealt with by the Unit Leader/LiC, District Leader or Region Leader without the activation of the Emergency Response Plan (ERP). When the incident escalates into a Class 2 or 1 emergency or is initially classified as Class 2 or 1, the State Executive Officer must be immediately notified by the Region Leader who will have been briefed by the District Leader. If the Unit Leader is in no fit condition to contact her District Leader then the LiC should do so. In the case of an event organised by state personnel eg. roster days, the relevant Committee Chair and/or the State Outdoors Manager must also be notified. Procedure In the case of an incident, the following procedure is followed (some steps may not be necessary depending on the nature of the incident): 1 Ensure other members of the group are aware of the emergency by using an alert signal, which has been previously discussed, eg. whistle. 3 RESCUE SUPPORT PERSON (responsible for group management and assisting with rescue): • Consider danger to rest of group. • Ensure the supervision of the group. Consider relocation of group to safe area or away from area where rescue is taking place to allow rescue to proceed unimpeded and to minimise psychological impact on participants. • Summon assistance as directed by Rescue Person. Consider assistance required by emergency services to locate site of emergency. • Provide assistance to Rescue Person. Steps once defused Once the situation has been defused the following steps are taken by the Unit Leader/LiC (in the order appropriate to the situation): ► Incident/injury/illness record form (ADM24) completed, signed and dated immediately. ► Ensure parent(s)/guardian(s) of victim(s) notified. ► Ensure parent(s)/guardian(s) of other participants notified and informed of support available. ► Ensure personnel notified as required by ERP. 2 RESCUE PERSON (responsible for rescue): • Consider danger to self and victim. • Effect rescue by securing victim or removing to safety as appropriate. • Complete primary survey and appropriate first aid response. • Ensure Rescue Support Person summons appropriate outside assistance if necessary. • Continue to support victim and complete secondary survey (if extended time period record notes of assistance provided). • Remain with victim and provide information to emergency services. • Ensure record of incident and response is made and signed (ADM.24). ► Ensure group debriefed if necessary (if professional assistance required, contact State Executive Officer). ► Insurance Officer at the Support Centre is notified by phone as soon as possible after the incident. ► Participant’s activity consent form ADM.27 or ADM.28 and injury/illness record form lodged with the State Insurance Officer as soon as possible. ► National Notification of Accident/Incident form (public liability) and QBE Insurance ‘Claim Form for Personal Accident and Sickness’ (sent out by Insurance Officer) completed and returned as soon as possible but no later than two weeks after the incident. The claim is then lodged by the Support Centre and processed if appropriate. A copy of all correspondence and forms relating to the incident should be kept in a special file by the Unit Leader/LiC and District Leader. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 7 DUTY OF CARE ► ‘Duty of care’ refers to a statutory legal obligation to ensure the health and safety of specified persons. A duty of care is owed to all participants by all personnel involved in an activity including Instructors, Activity Leaders, LiCs, Leaders and parents assisting with the activity, persons assisting in an emergency, as well as by Guides Queensland and its officers. It applies throughout the activity while the Instructor/Leader/Assistant (carers) and participant relationship exists. The carer’s responsibility includes: • identifying, assessing and minimising risk for participants; • conducting themselves appropriately to ensure the safety of participants; • observing the recommended standards of safe practice. The duty of care will vary according to such factors as the age and experience of participants, and the nature and location of the activity. When meeting duty of care, some points to consider are compliance with activity requirements as specified in Guide Lines and in these activity procedures, completion of required documentation, informing parents/ participants of activity details and procedures, choice of staff (suitability, competence), briefing of staff, training of personnel and participants, development of contingency plans and emergency procedures. POINTS TO REMEMBER ► The Queensland list of adventurous activities may differ slightly from those in Guide Lines. ► All Assessors/Instructors/Activity Leaders must be ratified by Girl Guides Queensland if that is a requirement of the specific activity procedure. ► If a ratified Instructor/Assessor/Activity Leader is not required by the procedure the activity Leader must possess specific skills and knowledge as outlined in the specific procedure. ► Members may not undertake any adventurous activity unless such ratification has been given. ► For ratification, the Ratification Application and Renewal (QF.AA.02) form must be completed in full (including signatures of applicant, nominator who must be a member of Guides Queensland, and relevant Region Consultant) and submitted at least three months prior to the activity. ► The nominated Assessor/Instructor/Activity Leader must be provided with the relevant Guide Lines section and adventurous activities procedure, before signing. ► Faxed forms will be accepted for consideration provided the original is mailed as soon as possible. ► All ratifications must be voted on and carried by the relevant State Committee at a Committee meeting before inclusion on the ratification list. ► Both the applicant and nominator will be notified in writing once the process has been completed. ► When completing forms, write only in ink. If a mistake is made, do not use correction fluid, but cross out the mistake and sign and date any alteration that is then made. ► Scout Association Instructors are not automatically ratified by Girl Guides Queensland. Page 8 Adventurous Activities Manual ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES PROCEDURES ► These activity procedures are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 9 ABSEILING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Mountaineering descent using a rope over a projection. Description of Activity Abseiling is the conventional basic method of descending rock-faces, steep or sheer drops, overhangs, towers, or artificial structures efficiently and safely by rope using an approved friction device. For the purpose of control of abseiling activities, participants shall be classed as: Novices Do not meet minimum standards required for any abseiling qualification. Junior Abseilers Able to abseil using a self belay and perform self rescue under the supervision of an Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor. Abseilers Advanced Abseilers Junior abseiler level plus additional competencies – are able to abseil using a self belay and use different descenders, perform self rescue and bottom belay under the supervision of an Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor. Abseiler level plus additional competencies – are able to abseil using a self belay, top belay and bottom belay and set up safety lines and abseil rope, perform self rescue under the supervision of an Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor. Abseil Leader 3 Levels Artificial Structures, Natural Sites and Multi Pitch. Advanced Abseiler level plus additional competencies – facilitates abseil activities and supervises Novices, Junior abseilers and Abseilers and Abseilers and Advanced Abseilers. Abseil Instructor 3 Levels Abseil Instructor 3 Levels – Artificial Structures, Natural Sites and Multi Pitch. Abseil Leader level plus additional competencies – trains abseilers towards Abseil qualifications. Page 10 Adventurous Activities Manual Abseil Assessor Abseil Instructor level plus additional competencies – assesses all Abseil qualifications. Refer to Assessment Guide for abseiling Qualifications for further details. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5–7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8–10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and in the use and care of equipment and abseiling skills. This must include handson familiarisation with the equipment and where possible be undertaken prior to the date of the activity. If this is not practical, then this training shall be given at the activity site before the group commences abseiling. ► If required, permission for land access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as National Parks and Wildlife Service, State Forestry or private land owners. ► The ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor must hold a current recognised First Aid Certificate. ► Where abseiling is used during an expedition over two or more days, the activity procedures for expeditions must be read in conjunction with this procedure. Abseiling Procedure • Recommendation has been received from a ratified Instructor or Assessor. Specific Rules 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. • All participants have attended an abseiling update within the last two years. A ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor shall control no more than four rope anchor points for experienced Participant and two rope anchor points for Novice and Junior abseilers at any one time. The Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor shall have eye contact with all ropes that are in use. Advanced Abseiler, Abseilers, Junior Abseilers and Novice abseilers must be under the supervision of a ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor during all descents and at least two Leaders/adults (other than Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor) must be present, unless conditions of specific rule 7 are met. Descents will be single pitch only with a maximum height of 25m for Novices and 50m for Junior Abseilers and Abseilers. Abseiling ropes shall be kernmantle static or super-static of 11mm diameter. In the case of smaller diameter ropes, double rope must be used. Lightweight participants may use single 9mm kernmantle static or super-static rope if they have difficulty controlling 11mm rope. If deemed necessary by the ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/ Assessor, a chest harness shall be worn in conjunction with the standard harness. Prussik cords shall have a minimum diameter of 5mm. Abseiling ropes shall be secured to a failsafe anchor system by means of a figure-8 follow through or figure-9 knot. A figure-8 knot should be tied approximately one metre from the lower end of the abseil rope. All karabiners used for descent must be of a locking type, preferably screw-gate. Participants must wear helmets, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, at all times when abseiling and within designated safety areas. Novice and Junior abseilers must use a figure-8 as a descender. A party of at least four adult members, who are all qualified Advanced Abseilers, may abseil and/ or train for a higher qualification without a ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor being present provided they have met the following conditions: • The activity is an approved adventurous activity and appropriate forms have been completed. • At least two members of the group have abseiled at the site with a ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/ Assessor prior to the activity. • The descent is single pitch only not more than 50m. • They must carry a personal first aid kit, whistle, pocketknife, drinking water, as well as their abseiling equipment. They must also maintain a logbook of all abseiling activities in which they participate and specify date, site, distance, comments, ratified Instructor/ participants. 7. Any rules/codes of conduct, which pertain to the abseiling area, are to be followed. Observe minimum impact practices. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader or Region Commissioner in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities/Outdoor Consultant or AARC Chairperson. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/Activity Leader in Charge of the activity. Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor are abseilers of at least eighteen years of age who have successfully completed the appropriate course/s (as determined by Girl Guides Queensland) and/or meet the standards set by Girl Guides Queensland and the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee. Who can Participate Members who are seven years or in Year two at school, or older, provided suitable equipment is available. Safety Requirements ► The ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor, in consultation with the LiC, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► When abseiling in a remote area, the LiC shall ensure that a responsible person who is not participating and can be contacted, is advised of the members of the abseiling party, the proposed location/route, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures, and alternative routes to be used in case of an emergency. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 11 Abseiling Procedure ► The minimum dress requirements are T-shirt (preferably with collar) and long-legged cotton or denim shorts, sturdy lace-up shoes with good grip. If participants wear bike pants, they must wear cotton shorts over the top. Shirts must be tucked in. Long hair must be plaited and loose hair must be tied back. Hair should be secured under helmet. Jewellery such as necklaces, bracelets, long earrings, rings and watches must be removed where possible. Glasses should be removed if practicable. Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. ► It is recommended that all participants wear a glove on their controlling hand. ► Drinking water and first aid and rescue equipment must be readily accessible to all participants. ► Jumps or stunt techniques, including forward rundown (rap jumping), are not permitted. ► Safety barriers, permanent (such as fence or barricade) or temporary (such as rope), shall be designated or set up at the top of all activity sites, at a minimum distance of one metre from the edge. A safety area shall be designated at the bottom of all activity sites. ► Individual safety lines shall be set up and each participant shall be hooked on to a safety line before moving past the safety barrier. The safety line shall not be removed from the participant until their belay has been safely engaged. Junior abseilers, Abseilers and Advanced Abseilers may remove their own safety line. For Novices, this must only be done by a ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor. All Novices, Junior abseilers, Abseilers and Advance Abseilers must be checked by the ratified Abseil Leader/Instructor/Assessor before descending. However adults holding the Advanced Abseiler qualification may abseil at a known site without an Instructor present provided the conditions under Specific Rule 7 are met. ► All Novices, unless training for a higher qualification, shall be belayed by a responsible trained belayer (14 years and over) by means of either a top or bottom belay. Belayers shall control no more than one rope at a time. ► Belayers must avoid engaging in conversations, or being distracted while they are belaying. ► Bottom belayers must wear safety helmets, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, when within a designated safety area. ► Abseiler participants should avoid dislodging rocks or rubble while abseiling, setting up ropes and safety lines. Page 12 Adventurous Activities Manual ‘ROCK’ must be yelled loudly to warn the belayers or others at the foot of the cliff of any falling rock/object. ► ‘ROPE’ must be yelled loudly prior to dropping any rope to warn others at the foot of the cliff or structure. A standard system of safety calls must be used to keep top and bottom parties informed. ► Abseiling ropes need to be protected from abrasion points on a cliff surface where possible. ► Equipment involved in a major fall or impact must be immediately retired. Unless required for insurance purposes, such equipment must be disposed of. Standard of Equipment All equipment must conform to Australian or UIAA/CE standards. Abseiling equipment used during Guides Queensland sponsored activities (including privately owned equipment) shall be inspected for wear and damage prior to and after each activity, and a usage/ inspection log maintained. Inspection must take place at least once in every 12 months by an Abseil Leader/ Instructor/Assessor or similarly qualified person approved by the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee. All equipment must be stored and maintained with care and must not be used for purposes other than abseiling, climbing and caving activities, and high ropes courses. Where Activity can be Performed Abseiling sites are determined by suitable, safe rope anchorage points and safe walking access. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Abseil Leader/ Instructor Assessor Required Yes, except under conditions of Specific Rule 7. ► First Published September 2001 BOARD SURFING PROCEDURE Saving Australia Ltd (SLSA) Bronze Medallion or higher award. ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Riding a wave towards the shore using a board. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures (particularly the dangers of diving into waves and shallow water) and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment and surfing skills. ► It is recommended that a surf survival course or equivalent be undertaken for beginners. Specific Rules Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines. Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. 2. The lifesaver must not participate in the activity while on duty (but may supervise on the water). 4. A buddy system should be used, that is pairing each participant with another of similar ability. 5. A responsible person who is not the lifesaver may be required for shore supervision of participants. Who can Authorise the Activity ► Participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts, and sneakers, or hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Swim and Survive level 3 or higher. 1. 3. A lifesaver with appropriate qualifications must be present. A lifesaver must be a responsible person, over the age of sixteen years and hold the required qualification, ie RLSSA Patrol Lifeguard or Surf Life District Leader, in consultation with the Region Water Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity The Leader in Charge (LiC) or a responsible person appointed by her (if the LiC is acting as lifesaver). Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Participants must be competent swimmers (minimum requirements listed in Pre-activity training and requirements). Age and experience must be considered in light of conditions at the time of the activity. Safety Requirements ► Surfing must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris. ► The surfing area must be clearly defined. ► Surfing conditions should be small or moderate surf it is essential that a reliable person with appropriate knowledge of local conditions be available to advise the LiC regarding surfing conditions as these are subject to constant change. ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► Equipment should be appropriate to the size and skill levels of the participants. ► Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. Marine stinger protection should be used in marine stinger areas. Wet suits should be worn in cold conditions. Leg ropes are required. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 13 Board Surfing Procedure ► Instruction in the use of flag and whistle signals; evacuation procedures and techniques for assisting fellow surfers in trouble should be given. ► Non-contact rescue aids such as flotation aids, poles or ropes, and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► The location of and a procedure for contacting the relevant emergency services must be known. Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. All boards are to be inspected for rough or sharp edges and removed from use if necessary. If flippers are worn they must be of correct fit and in good repair. Where Activity can be Performed Surf beaches with small or moderate surf, except in restricted areas. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required No. The above procedures must be adhered to. A suggested minimum qualification for the Activity Leader is a current Community Surf Life Saving Certificate. ► First Published September 2001 Page 14 Adventurous Activities Manual BODY SURFING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Riding a wave towards the shore using one's body, surf mat, or boogie board. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures (particularly the dangers of diving into waves and shallow water) and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and body surfing skills. Specific Rules Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. 2. 4. A buddy system should be used, that is pairing each participant with another of similar ability. 5. A responsible person who is not the lifesaver may be required for shore supervision of participants. Who can Authorise the Activity Who can Control the Activity ► Participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts, and sneakers, or hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Swim and Survive Level 3 or higher. 11 years and older The lifesaver must not participate in the activity while on duty (but may supervise on the water). District Leader, in consultation with Region Water Activities Consultant. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements 1. 3. A lifesaver with appropriate qualifications must be present. A lifesaver must be a responsible person, over the age of sixteen years and hold the required qualification, ie RLSSA Patrol Lifeguard or Surf Life Saving Australia Limited (SLSA) lifesaver on duty. The Leader in Charge (LiC), or a responsible person appointed by her (if the LiC is acting as the lifesaver). Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Participants must be competent swimmers (minimum requirements listed in Pre-activity training and requirements). Age and experience must be considered in light of conditions at the time of activity. Safety Requirements ► Body surfing must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris. ► Body surfing is not permitted on unpatrolled beaches. ► The body surfing area must be clearly defined. ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. Marine stinger protection should be used in marine stinger areas. Wet suits should be worn in cold conditions. ► Non-contact rescue aids such as flotation aids, poles or ropes, and first aid equipment, must be readily accessible. ► The location of and a procedure for contacting the relevant emergency services must be known. ► The lifeguard, mobile patrol or club members should be notified of the activity. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 15 Body Surfing Procedure Standard Of Equipment All safety equipment and mats/boards must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. Where Activity can be Performed Patrolled surf beaches with small or moderate surf. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required No. The above procedure must be adhered to. ► First Published September 2001 Page 16 Adventurous Activities Manual BOOM NETTING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Description of Activity of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. A minimum of three adults should be present, ie boat driver, observer, support person. The boat driver and observer (also on the boat) must have agreed on appropriate signals prior to the activity. The observer monitors those in the boom net and communicates with the boat driver. The support person is an adult who must be prepared to effect a rescue and/or raise the alarm at any time. They must be advised of the members of the boat party and of emergency procedures. Another person may be required on board for supervision of participants. 2. Participants must ride where directed in the net and be competent swimmers (minimum requirements listed in Pre-activity training and requirements). 3. Commercial operators must hold public liability insurance; privately owned boats must have third party insurance. Riding or travelling in a net that is being dragged through the water by a powered boat. The net can be mounted on the back or side of the craft. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts, sneakers, and a personal flotation device (PFD), or hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Swim and Survive level 3 or higher. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in boom netting skills. ► Power boat drivers must hold an appropriate powerboat licence, comply with any relevant legislation or regulations, eg Harbours and Marine, Local Authority, Dept of Transport, and have experience driving a boat for boom netting groups. ► One adult present, other than the boat driver, must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer clauses for Camp First Aid in Guide Lines 5.3.1. page 5-9 Part A) and have current qualifications in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with the Region Water Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader. Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Age and experience must be considered in light of conditions at the time of the activity. Safety Requirements ► Boom netting must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris. ► The ratified Instructor or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, water and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 17 Boom Netting Procedure ► The LiC shall ensure that a responsible person on shore, who can be contacted, is advised of the members of the party, location of activity, estimated time of departure and arrival, and emergency procedures. ► Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. Marine stinger protection should be used in marine stinger areas. Wet suits should be worn in cold conditions. ► Drinking water, rescue and first aid equipment must be readily accessible on board the boat. Standard of Equipment Craft must be in a seaworthy condition. All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. PFDs must conform to Australian standards. Where Activity can be Performed Any open area of calm water, subject to Department of Transport regulations. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes. ► First Published September 2001 Page 18 Adventurous Activities Manual CANOE/KAYAKING (BEGINNERS) PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity A boating activity using a light and narrow craft, for one or two people, which is propelled with the use of paddles rather than with oars or sails. Description of Activity Craft are usually made of fibreglass or plastic. Canadian canoes are generally open in design, built to take one person (single) or two people (double) and propelled by a single paddle. Kayaks are generally enclosed with limited carrying capacity, built to take one person (single) or two people (double) and propelled by a double paddle. Beginners are members who do not hold a Boating Trefoil 3 (canoeing/kayaking) or FDO12A Develop basic Canoeing and/or Kayaking skills module) Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts, sneakers, and a personal flotation device (PFD), OR hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia Swim and Survive level 3 or higher. In special circumstances, eg special needs members, it may be possible for individual non-swimmers to participate in canoeing activities in carefully controlled situations at the discretion of the ratified Instructor. ► Canoeing is a strenuous activity and places a heavy demand on the muscles of the arms and shoulders. Participants should be physically prepared for the activity. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures and have current qualifications in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. At the discretion of the LiC and depending on the nature of the activity, this person may be on the shore or in a rescue boat. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. ► If required, permission for water access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as private landowners. Craft must be closely supervised by either: • a member holding qualifications (as defined by Guide Lines 6.5.2 pages 6-5 and 6-6); or • a competent person from outside Girl Guides Queensland, who has been ratified by the State Water Activities Committee. 2. A ratio of one qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leader to six other canoeists is required except under Specific Rule 6. 3. A minimum of two qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leaders should be present. When it is not possible for two qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Instructors to be present for an activity, other responsible adults or extra people with basic skills should be present in order to satisfy safety and risk management considerations. 4. The LiC must ensure that a Leader, NOT involved with the practical canoeing, and preferably someone who knows the girls, is present to help with supervision on shore. In the case of a large group, this could include the provision of activities for the girls while they are waiting. The qualified/ ratified Canoeing Activity Leaders on the water are not responsible for shore supervision. ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment and canoeing skills. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Adventurous Activities Manual Page 19 Canoe/Kayaking (Beginners) Procedure 5. 6. The LiC must be aware that canoeing activities include cleaning and correct storage of equipment. Sufficient time and people must be allocated for this task. Where the activity is controlled by a qualified/ ratified Instructor with recognised Instructor qualifications or by a Canoeing Activity Leader who holds FDO12DL, a ratio deemed safe by the Instructor in accordance with the age of the participants, type of activity, venue and conditions can apply. This can be greater than a ratio of one qualified/ratified Activity Leader holder to six canoeists. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with the Region Water Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity ► The ratified Instructor's craft must carry a throw line/ bag and/or towline. ► The LiC must provide a first aid kit that is readily accessible. Drinking water must be readily accessible. ► Painter lines should only be used for towing and portages. Lines must be secured to bow and stern immediately prior to towing/portage and removed after towing/portage. When not in use, painter lines should be stored in a sealed bag. Standard of Equipment Craft must be in a seaworthy condition and have fixed buoyancy. All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. Footrests if fitted should be checked to ensure that they do not pose an entrapment hazard. PFDs must conform to Australian standards. Qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leader or Instructor. Where Activity can be Performed Who can Participate On Grade 1 water as per Guide Lines 6.3. page 6-2. All youth and adult members. Age and experience must be considered in light of conditions at the time of the activity. Safety Requirements ► The qualified/ratified Canoe Activity Leaders or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, water and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The grading of water depends on the conditions in the area on the day of the activity. The LiC, in consultation with the qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leader, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► The minimum dress requirements are shorts or bike pants, a protective shirt (preferably with a collar), lace up shoes (or closed water shoes that are a firm fit) that can be worn in the water, and a brimmed hat that can be tied on. Long jeans or pants, very short shorts, swimming togs, baseball caps, thongs, open surf sandals, or sleeveless shirts are not appropriate. Sunscreen is recommended. ► A properly fitted and secured PFD bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, and appropriate to the activity, must be worn at all times when taking part in the activity. Page 20 Adventurous Activities Manual Grade 1 water: Small enclosed areas of water, water within hailing distance of the shore, slow-moving water that can be handled by every canoeist. This would include very small dams, small rapids that all participants can handle and sheltered edges of large dams. Not on Grade 2 water or above. Grade 2 water: Faster moving water, small rapids, small harbours and strong tidal water. This includes large dams, lakes or river estuaries affected by current, tide or wind, or areas of heavy boat traffic such as the lower reaches of the Brisbane River. It also includes heavy white water when the track through is safe. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes. ► First Published September 2001 CANOEING/KAYAKING (CANOEIST - BASIC SKILLS) PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity A boating activity using a light and narrow craft, for one or two people, which is propelled with the use of paddles rather than with oars or sails. Description of Activity Craft are usually made of fibreglass or plastic. Canadians are generally open in design, built to take one person (single) or two people (double) and propelled by a single paddle. Kayaks are generally enclosed with limited carrying capacity, built to take one person (single) or two people (double) and propelled by a double paddle. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts, sneakers, and a personal flotation device (PFD), OR hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia Swim and Survive level 3 or higher ► Canoeing is a strenuous activity and places a heavy demand on the muscles of the arms and shoulders. Participants should be physically prepared for the activity. ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Supervision requirements: as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. ► Where canoeing is the mode of transport used for an expedition over two or more days, the activity procedures for expeditions must be read in conjunction with this procedure. Specific Rules 1. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures and have current qualifications in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). At the discretion of the LiC and depending on the nature of the activity, this person may be on the shore or in a rescue boat. Craft must be closely supervised by either: • a member holding qualifications (as defined by Guide Lines 6.5.2 pages 6-5 and 6-6); or • a competent person from outside Guides Queensland, who has been ratified by the State Water Activities Committee. 2. A ratio of one qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leader to six other canoeists is required except under Specific Rule 4. 3. A minimum of two qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leaders should be present. When it is not possible for two qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Instructors to be present for an activity, other responsible adults or extra people with basic skills should be present in order to satisfy safety and risk management considerations. 4. Where the activity is controlled by a qualified/ ratified Instructor with recognised Instructor qualifications or by a Canoeing Activity Leader who holds FDO12DL, a ratio deemed safe by the Instructor in accordance with the age of the participants, type of activity, venue and conditions can apply. This can be greater than a ratio of one qualified/ratified Activity Leader holder to six canoeists. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures. ► If required, permission for water access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as private land owners. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Adventurous Activities Manual Page 21 Canoe/Kayaking (Canoeist - Basic Skills) Procedure Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with the Region Water Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Canoeing Activity Leader with FDO12DS or FDO12DL or ratified Instructor (except in the case of a group of not more than four Certificate holders where the group Leader can control the activity.) Who Can Participate Members who at least hold a boating Trefoil 3 or FDO12A and are fourteen years or in Year 9 at school, or older. Safety Requirements ► The ratified Instructor or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and water and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The grading of water depends on the conditions in the area on the day of the activity. The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► Where necessary the LiC shall ensure that a responsible person, who is not participating and can be contacted, is advised of the members of the canoeing party, location of activity, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures, and where appropriate, the proposed route. ► The minimum dress requirements are shorts or bike pants, a protective shirt (preferably with a collar), lace up shoes that can be worn in the water, and a brimmed hat that can be tied on. Long jeans or pants, very short shorts, swimming togs, baseball caps, thongs, surf sandals, or sleeveless shirts are not appropriate. Sunscreen is recommended. ► A properly fitted and secured PFD bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, and appropriate to the activity, must be worn at all times when taking part in the activity. ► A crash helmet, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, suitable for white water canoeing, must be worn when canoeing on Grade 2 water. ► The LiC must provide a first aid kit that is readily accessible. Drinking water must be readily accessible. ► For one day trips, all party members must carry a personal first aid kit, drinking water, waterproofed food Page 22 Adventurous Activities Manual and clothing, equipment appropriate to conditions that may be encountered, craft repair kit, and map with route marked. ► The ratified Instructor's craft must carry a throw line/ bag and/or towline. ► Painter lines should only be used for towing and portages. Lines must be secured to bow and stern immediately prior to towing/portage and removed after towing/portage. When not in use, painter lines should be stored in a sealed bag. Standard of Equipment Craft must be in a seaworthy condition and have fixed buoyancy. All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. Footrests if fitted should be checked to ensure that they do not pose an entrapment hazard. PFDs and crash helmets must conform to Australian standards. Where Activity can be Performed On Grade 1 and Grade 2 water as per Guide Lines Grade 1 water: Small enclosed areas of water, water within hailing distance of the shore, slowmoving water that can be handled by every canoeist. This would include very small dams, small rapids that all participants can handle and sheltered edges of large dams. Grade 2 water: Faster moving water, small rapids, small harbours and strong tidal water. This includes large dams, lakes or river estuaries affected by current, tide or wind, or areas of heavy boat traffic such as the lower reaches of the Brisbane River. It also includes heavy white water when the track through is safe. Not on Grade 3 water or above. Grade 3 water: Rapids which have many obstacles, water confused; areas of rivers where traffic is very heavy; open lakes and dams where distance and wind cause additional hazards; turbulent surf – a high level of expertise and training is required. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes. ► First Published September 2001 CLIMBING (ARTIFICIAL SURFACES - GYM/WALL CLIMBING) PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Ascending or descending a wall/tower at an indoors or outdoors venue, using hands and/or feet for support, and specialised equipment as a safety system. Description of Activity Top rope climbing is ascending a wall/tower with the climber attached to a rope from an anchor point above, and belayed from either top or bottom. Lead climbing is ascending a wall/tower where the climber places protection devices while ascending and is belayed from below. For the purposes of control of climbing activities participants shall be classed as: Novices Do not meet minimum standards required for any climbing qualification nor be able to climb or tie ropes safely. Top Rope Climber Hold Abseiler qualification, able to climb and belay, tie ropes, set up top rope and belay systems, perform self rescue. Lead Climber Hold Top Rope Climber qualification, perform self rescue, lead climb and place protection. Instructor Top Rope Instructs and supervises Novices, Junior climbers, and Top Rope climbers in top roping. Instructor - Lead Climber Instructs and supervises Novices, Junior climbers, Top rope climbers, and Lead Climbers in top roping/lead climbing. Assessors (acts as Instructor and assesses adult members for Instructor qualification) Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and climbing and belaying skills, and safety procedures relevant to the individual gym/wall climbing site. This must be hands-on familiarisation with the equipment and, where possible, be undertaken prior to the date of the activity. If this is not practical, then this training shall be given at the gym/tower/wall before the group commences climbing. ► The ratified Instructor must hold a current Red Cross or St John Senior First Aid Certificate or equivalent. ► Where abseiling is the method of descent, the activity procedures for abseiling must be read in conjunction with this procedure. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. At least two Leaders/adults (other than Instructors) must be present with each group under fifteen years of age, and one adult/Leader for fifteen to eighteen year olds. 2. Climbing ropes shall be kernmantle static, superstatic or dynamic of 10.5mm or 11mm diameter or specialised gym climbing ropes. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 23 Climbing (Artificial Surfaces - GYM/Wall Climbing) Procedure 3. For top roping, climbing ropes must run through a top anchor system ie over a bar or roller. For lead climbing, combing ropes must run through protection where the first protection point has upward and downward gear placements 4. Karabiners used for belaying must be of a locking type. 5. Climbers may be attached to the rope by a figure-8 follow through backed up with a stopper knot and tied into their harness or clipped in with a locking karabiner with a figure-8 follow through in the rope. 6. Helmets, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, are worn at the discretion of the ratified gym/ artificial wall supervisor/Instructor. 7. A party of at least four adult members who are all qualified. Top rope climbers may train for a higher qualification without a ratified Instructor being present provided they have met the following conditions: • The activity is an approved adventurous activity. • At least two members of the group have climbed at the site with a ratified Instructor prior to the activity. • The ascent is single pitch only, not more than 50m. • Recommendation has been received from a ratified Instructor or Assessor. • All participants have attended a climbing update within the last two years. • They must carry a personal first aid kit as well as their climbing equipment. They must also maintain a logbook of all climbing activities in which they participate, and specify date, site, distance/grade of climb, comments, Instructor/ participants. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Climbing Instructor or Activity Leader. Climbing Instructors are climbers of at least eighteen years of age who have successfully completed the appropriate course/s (as determined by Girl Guides Queensland), and/or meet the standards set by Girl Guides Australia and the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee. Page 24 Adventurous Activities Manual Who Can Participate Members who are seven years or in Year 2 at school, or older, provided suitable equipment is available. Local gym/site rules may prohibit the participation of younger members. Safety Requirements ► The ratified Instructor must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The ratified Instructor, in consultation with the LiC, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► The minimum dress requirements are shirt tucked in and closed in lace-up shoes. Long hair must be plaited and loose hair must be tied back. Hair should be secured under helmet, if worn. Jewellery such as necklaces, bracelets, long earrings, rings, and watches must be removed where possible. If outdoors, sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. ► Drinking water, and first aid and rescue equipment must be readily accessible to the ratified Instructor. ► Safety areas shall be set at the top and bottom of the wall. The Instructor shall designate safety areas on climbing sites, where appropriate. ► When setting up top rope climbs, ratified Instructors and climbers must wear harnesses and be attached to a safety line when inside the top rope safety area. ► All belayers must be trained in belaying techniques. ► Belayers shall control no more than one rope at a time. All Novices, who are under fourteen years of age, shall be belayed by a responsible, trained adult. Any climber, fourteen years and over, shall be belayed by a responsible trained belayer (fourteen years and over), subject to site rules. ► Belayers must avoid engaging in conversations, or being distracted while they are belaying. ► Belayers must be anchored/tied down to the floor or alternative anchor point. ► Figure-8 descenders must not be used for belaying. ► Each climber and belayer to check their own gear and then have it checked by a ratified Instructor, Top Rope Climber or responsible appropriately trained adult prior to the climber commencing the climb. Climbing (Artificial Surfaces - GYM/Wall Climbing) Procedure ► ‘ROPE’ must be yelled loudly prior to dropping any rope to warn others at the foot of the wall. A standard system of safety calls must be used to keep climbers and belayers informed. ► On completion of the climb, the climber must be lowered or abseil down. They must not untie at the top of the wall or climb above the karabiners unless they are under the direct supervision of a ratified Instructor. ► Equipment involved in a major fall or impact must be immediately retired. Unless required for insurance purposes, such equipment must be disposed of. Standard Of Equipment The gym/artificial wall should be constructed according to accepted engineering/expert standards and must be inspected periodically. All equipment must conform to Australian or UIAA/CE standards. Climbing equipment used during Girl Guides Queensland sponsored activities (including privately owned equipment) shall be inspected for wear and damage prior to and after each activity, and a usage/ inspection log maintained. Inspection must take place at least once in every twelve months by an Instructor or similarly qualified person approved by the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee. All equipment must be stored and maintained with care and must not be used for purposes other than climbing, abseiling, and caving activities, and high ropes courses. Where Activity Can Be Performed At indoor climbing gyms or artificial walls/ towers designed for climbing and approved by Girl Guides Queensland. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, except under conditions of Specific Rule 7 (ratified Person in charge required). ► First Published September 2001 Adventurous Activities Manual Page 25 CLIMBING (NATURAL SURFACES - ROCK CLIMBING) PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Ascending or descending a rock face using hands and/or feet for support, and specialised equipment as a safety system. Description of Activity Top rope climbing is ascending a rock face with the climber attached to a rope from an anchor point above, and belayed from either top or bottom. Lead climbing is ascending a rock face where the climber places protection devices while ascending and is belayed from below. For the purpose of control of climbing activities participants shall be classed as: Novices Do not meet minimum standards required for any climbing qualification or able to climb but not tie ropes safely. Top Rope Climber Hold Abseiler qualification, able to climb and belay, tie ropes, set up rope and belay systems, perform self rescue. Lead Climber Hold Top Rope Climber qualification, perform self rescue, lead climb and place protection. Instructor Top Rope Instructs and supervises Novices, Junior climbers, and Top Rope Climbers in top roping. Instructor - Lead Climber Instructs and supervises Novices, Junior climbers, Top Rope Climbers, and Lead Climbers in top roping/lead climbing. Assessors Acts as Instructor and assesses adult members for Instructor qualification. Page 26 Adventurous Activities Manual Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in use and care of equipment, and climbing and belaying skills. This must include hands-on familiarisation with the equipment and, where possible, be undertaken prior to the date of the activity. If this is not practical, then this training shall be given at the cliff before the group commences climbing. ► If required, permission for land access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as National Parks and Wildlife Service, State Forestry, private land owners. ► The ratified Instructor must hold a current Red Cross or St John Senior First Aid Certificate or equivalent. ► Where abseiling is the method of descent, the activity procedures for abseiling must be read in conjunction with this procedure. ► Where climbing is used during an expedition over two or more days, the activity procedures for expeditions must be read in conjunction with this procedure. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Climbing (Natural Surfaces - Rock Climbing) Procedure Specific Rules 1. A ratified Instructor shall control no more than four ropes at any one time and the Instructor shall have eye contact with all ropes that are in use. 2. Novices must be under the supervision of a ratified Instructor during all ascents and descents. Ascents/ descents shall be single pitch only. 3. At least two Leaders/adults (other than Instructors) must be present with each group under fifteen years of age, and one adult/Leader for fifteen to eighteen year olds. 4. 5. Climbing ropes shall be kernmantle static, superstatic or dynamic of 10.5mm or 11mm diameter. For top roping, climbing ropes must run through two steel locking type karabiners attached to the top anchor system. For lead climbing, climbing ropes must run through protection where the first protection point has upward and downward gear placements. 6. Karabiners used for belaying must be of a steel locking type. 7. Climbers must be attached to the rope by a figure-8 follow through backed up with a stopper knot and tied into their harness or clipped in by two locking karabiners. 8. Climbers must wear helmets, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, while climbing and when within designated safety areas. Belayers and climbers waiting to climb must also wear safety helmets, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, when within safety helmet area as designated by the ratified Instructor. 9. Novices may only climb at sites familiar to the ratified Instructor. 10. A party of at least four adult members who are all qualified Top Rope climbers may train for a higher qualification without a ratified Instructor being present provided they have met the following conditions: • The activity is an approved adventurous activity. • At least two members of the group have climbed at the site with a ratified Instructor prior to the activity. • The ascent is single pitch only, not more than 50m. • Recommendation has been received from a ratified Instructor or Assessor. • All participants have attended a climbing update within the last two years. • They must carry a personal first aid kit, whistle, pocketknife, drinking water, as well as their climbing equipment. They must also maintain a logbook of all climbing activities in which they participate and specify the date, site, distance/grade of climb, comments, Instructor/ participants. 11. Any rules/codes of conduct which pertain to the climbing area are to be followed. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified climbing Instructor or Activity Leader. Climbing Instructors are climbers of at least eighteen years of age who have successfully completed the appropriate course/s (as determined by Guides Queensland), and/ or meet the standards set by Guides Australia and the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee. Who can Participate Members who are ten years or in Year 5 at school or older, provided suitable equipment is available. Safety Requirements ► The ratified Instructor must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The ratified Instructor, in consultation with the LiC, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► When climbing in a remote area, the LiC shall ensure that a responsible person who is not participating and can be contacted is advised of the members of the party, the proposed location/route, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures, and alternative routes to be used in case of emergency. ► The minimum dress requirements are shirt tucked in and closed in lace-up shoes. Long hair must be plaited and loose hair must be tied back. Hair should be Adventurous Activities Manual Page 27 Climbing (Natural Surfaces - Rock Climbing) Procedure secured under helmet. Jewellery (such as necklaces, bracelets, long earrings, rings, and watches) removed where possible. Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection should be worn. ► Equipment involved in a major fall or impact must be immediately retired. Unless required for insurance purposes, such equipment must be disposed of. ► Drinking water, and first aid and rescue equipment must be readily accessible to the ratified Instructor. Standard of Equipment ► Safety areas shall be set at the top and bottom of the cliff. The Instructor shall designate safety areas on climbing sites. ► When setting up top rope climbs, ratified Instructors and climbers must wear harnesses and be attached to a safety line when inside the top rope safety area. ► All top rope anchor systems must be failsafe, preferably using independent anchor points. ► Climbing anchor systems and ropes need to be protected from possible abrasion points on the cliff surface where possible. ► All belayers must be trained in belaying techniques. ► Belayers shall control no more than one rope at a time. All Novices, unless training for a higher qualification, shall be belayed by a responsible trained belayer (fourteen years and over). ► Belayers must avoid engaging in conversations, or being distracted while they are belaying. ► Bottom belayers must wear safety helmets when within the designated safety area. ► Belayers must be tied down to a natural or artificial tie off. ► Figure-8 descenders must not be used for belaying. ► Each climber and belayer to check their own gear and then have it checked by ratified Instructor or Top Rope Climber prior to the climber commencing the climb. ► Climbers should avoid dislodging rocks or rubble while climbing, or setting up ropes and safety lines. ‘ROCK’ must be yelled loudly to warn the belayers or others at the foot of the cliff or any falling rock/object. ► ‘ROPE’ must be yelled loudly prior to dropping any rope to warn others at the foot of the cliff. A standard system of safety calls must be used to keep climbers and belayers informed. ► On completion of the climb, the climber must be lowered or abseil down. They must not untie at the top of the cliff or climb above the karabiners unless they are under the direct supervision of a ratified Instructor or being top belayed. Page 28 Adventurous Activities Manual All equipment must conform to Australian or UIAA/CE standards. Climbing equipment used during Guides Queensland sponsored activities (including privately owned equipment) shall be inspected for wear and damage prior to and after each activity, and a usage/ inspection log maintained. Inspection must take place at least once in every twelve months by an Instructor or similarly qualified person approved by the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee. All equipment must be stored and maintained with care and must not be used for purposes other than climbing, abseiling, and caving activities, and high ropes courses. Where Activity can be Performed Climbing sites are determined by suitable, safe anchorage points and safe walking access. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, except under Specific Rule 10 (ratified person in charge required). ► First Published September 2001 CYCLING IN HEAVY TRAFFIC PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Specific Rules 1. Definition of Activity Cycling on roads or major thoroughfares where motor traffic is heavy and on highways linking two towns or suburbs where cycling is normally allowed. Description of Activity The riding of bicycles in areas of heavy traffic, or on major thoroughfares, or on highways and roads that carry heavy traffic. The type of activity envisaged is when girls may be riding to another town to participate in a camp or they may be riding in a fundraising activity. Bike hikes on roads with heavy traffic come under this category. Riding on specific bikeways where motor traffic is restricted is not classified as cycling in heavy traffic. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► It is essential that all members of the group be of a reasonable level of fitness and experienced in riding bicycles. ► Cycling in heavy traffic is far more demanding than cycle touring, and therefore confidence and knowledge of road rules and their relevance to cycling is important. Members of a party should familiarise themselves with riding in a group, and if necessary the use and care of equipment. ► Before the activity, the Leader should formulate a set of emergency procedures and ensure that all members of the party are familiar with these and with any other requirements, including knowledge of road rules. ► All bicycles are to be checked for safety and roadworthiness by a suitably qualified person. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for Camp First Aid in Guide Lines 5.3.1. page 5-9 Part A), and have current qualifications in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). ► Where cycling is the mode of transport used for an expedition over two or more days, the activity procedures for expeditions must be read in conjunction with this procedure. Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. 2. A party of about four is preferable. Party size should not exceed this in heavy traffic as it reduces group mobility, and increases the likelihood of traffic problems. 3. Road rules must be adhered to, including wearing of safety helmets bearing the stamp of Standards Australia. Signaling must be used to indicate cyclist’s intention to other traffic. Cyclists must ride single file at all times so as not to interrupt traffic flow. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader. Who can Control the Activity Leader in Charge (LiC) or Activity Leader of the ride. Who can Participate Members who are thirteen years or in Year 8 at school, or older. Safety Requirements The LiC should be familiar with the roads. If the route is not well known to any member of the riding party, then a map and compass are also required. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 29 Cycling in Heavy Traffic Procedure ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► The LiC shall ensure that a responsible person who is not cycling and can be contacted is advised of the members of the cycling party, the proposed route, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures, and alternative routes to be used in case of an emergency. ► Brightly coloured clothing, and reflective vests or safety flag attached to bike, are to be used. ► Fully enclosed footwear must be worn, and clothing appropriate to the conditions. Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. ► All members should carry drinking water, a pump, spare tubes, a basic tool kit and puncture kit. ► The expedition leader shall have ready access to a hike first aid kit. ► All members of the group must be aware of the need to be predictable in their movements on the road; sudden erratic riding can be dangerous to the group and to other traffic. ► Personal loads should be kept to a minimum and only a small amount of gear should be carried in a backpack. Excess gear should be carried on the bicycle (eg in panniers) or in a support vehicle. Standard Equipment All bicycles must be roadworthy, with good tyres and tubes. Brakes must be fully functional. If the group intends to ride at night, or even at dusk or dawn, it is important that all members have headlights and taillights/ reflectors. Safety helmets must fit properly and conform to Australian standards. All equipment must be inspected prior to each activity. Where Activity can be Performed Any road that carries a regular flow of traffic. Roads with wide and safe road shoulders are preferred. Freeways and other areas where cycling is prohibited must not be used. The heavier the traffic, the more skill and concentration is required. Page 30 Adventurous Activities Manual Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructors Required No. However, competency in cycling and first aid, and knowledge of the road rules is essential for the LiC or Activity Leader of the ride. The above procedures must be adhered to. ► First Published September 2001 EXPEDITIONS AND WILDERNESS WALKING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Expeditions involve touring/bush walking through unfamiliar localities by foot, canoe, bicycle, horseback or other means over a period of two or more days. Wilderness walking refers to expeditions on foot in remote wilderness areas. Description of Activity These activities involve carrying all food and equipment required for the duration of the activity. Travelling from place to place (touring) is a principal component of the activity. Generally overnight camping will be in tents, however where more appropriate, hostels or huts can be used. Trips into wilderness areas, ie rugged and remote or exposed areas require specialist knowledge related to safety and suitability of equipment, emergency procedures, and survival skills. Members of a party walking in such areas are entirely dependent on their own resources and expertise as individuals and as a group. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► If required, permission for land access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as National Parks and Wildlife Service, State Forestry or private land owners. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration Specific Rules A party of at least four people may undertake an activity, at least one experienced person to three less experienced people. These are minimum requirements. Consider the age and experience of the group, the route, the weather and location, and adjust this ratio as appropriate. Party size should not exceed ten (form two or more self-contained parties if necessary). 1. Refer to Guide Lines, Chapter 5 Camping – Rules and Qualifications. 2. If a mode of transport other than foot is used, all party members must meet requirements for their use. See separate procedures for canoeing/ kayaking and other boating, horse riding; snow skiing, bike riding, trail bike riding and four wheel driving. 3. Any rules/codes of conduct governing the area/ activity must be adhered to. Be careful with fires and rubbish, and observe minimum impact practices. The touring/walking party should collaborate to plan the activity and requirements. ► All party members should be at an appropriate level of fitness and health, and have had practice at carrying all the gear required for the activity. ► Instruction and practice in the type of touring/walking may be necessary. ► All members of the party should have knowledge of and ability to practise basic first aid. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides ► All party members must have practical knowledge of selection and care of personal equipment, packing, food requirements and preparation, water availability and/or purification, and personal safety. Who can Authorise the Activity ► Before the activity, the activity leader should formulate a set of emergency procedures and ensure all members of the party are familiar with these. District Leader, in consultation with the Region Camping Consultant (RCC) Region Adventurous Activities Consultant (RAAC) or Region Water Activities Consultant Adventurous Activities Manual Page 31 Expeditions and Wilderness Walking Procedure (if watercraft are involved). For interstate camps, the LiC discusses the proposal with the DL, RCC and RAAC. Application is then made at least six months prior to the activity through the DL and the State Outdoors Manager to the Board for approval. Who can Control the Activity Expedition leader, who must hold the appropriate qualification (ie Expedition in Controlled Environments or Wilderness Expedition) if a member of Guides Queensland; or non-members who are suitably qualified and experienced to be ratified by State Camping Committee. Where there is not a Guide Leader who holds expedition qualifications, the State can allow an expedition as an adventurous activity rather than a camp. For the expedition to be allowed as an adventurous activity, the Leader-in-Charge must hold either FDO7 or FDO8 and meet the requirements of an adventurous activity. The Leader-in-Charge sources an appropriate non-Guiding instructor, whether individual or company, who has specific knowledge and skills in running expeditions and meets the relevant insurance obligations of an adventurous activity provider. The Leader in Charge is to remain responsible for all members participating in this activity at all times. Guide Lines 5.2. Who can Participate Members who are twelve years old or in Year 7 at school, or older. Younger Guides may participate in single overnight walks in familiar country where they are not required to carry a full pack to gain experience leading to further expeditions. Safety Requirements ► The expedition leader must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain and weather conditions in the area of the activity, and carry a map of the area (if available) and compass. ► The expedition leader must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► The expedition leader shall ensure that appropriate responsible personnel (National Parks Officers, local police/rescue personnel and District Leader) are aware of the members of the party, the proposed route, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures and alternative routes to be used in case of emergency. Page 32 Adventurous Activities Manual ► All party members must carry a whistle, personal first aid kit (including sunscreen and insect repellant), drinking water, chocolate/scroggin, other food, clothing and equipment appropriate to conditions that may be encountered. ► The expedition leader must have a knowledge of and ability to perform first aid (refer to clauses for Camp First Aid in Guide Lines 5.3.1 page 5-9 Part A), emergency procedures and crisis management Standard of Equipment Equipment shall be appropriate to the type and duration of the expedition, in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. The expedition leader shall ensure all party members have sufficient knowledge to select and pack appropriate gear for personal use and shall select and organise distribution of party equipment. Where Activity can be Performed Bush, country and wilderness areas determined by fitness and experience of group undertaking the activity. Activity Consent Form Required Covered by the camp consent form. Appropriate section of form must be completed for other adventurous activities. Ratified Instructor Required No, unless an activity undertaken as part of the expedition requires a ratified Instructor (refer to specific procedure). ► First Published September 2001 FENCING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules Definition of Activity Fencing involves the use of foils in a duel between two people. 1. A ratio of one adult to ten participants is required. 2. A minimum of two adults should be present. 3. The area (field of play or piste) in which fencers may move is restricted to 14m by 2m. This area is divided by lines across its width. If, after having been warned, a fencer crosses the rear limit with both feet, a hit is scored against them. 4. Hits to the torso are scored, hits which land on the legs, arms and head are not. 5. A fencer scoring five hits within the time limit, or the leader at the end of the bout (five minutes for women) is declared the winner. If the scores are equal, a deciding point is fought within a time limit. 6. If the activity is organised by a fencing club, then club rules may also apply. Description of Activity The electric foil is fitted with a spring-loaded blunt point that depresses slightly when the opponent’s target area is hit. Foil fencers wear a special metallic lame jacket covering the torso so that hits arriving on target will light up a coloured lamp on a recording box. Additional information can be obtained from the Queensland Amateur Fencing Association and recognised fencing clubs. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Some degree of physical fitness is required. Who can Authorise the Activity ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and if necessary in the use and care of equipment, and fencing skills (including use of foils, correct footwork and concept of distance). Who can Control the Activity ► One adult present must have a knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for Camp First Aid in Guide Lines 5.3.1 page 5-9 Part A). ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 Ratified Instructor including ratified fencing Instructors at recognised fencing clubs, or Activity Leader. Who can Participate Members who are ten years or in Year 5 at school, or older. Safety Requirements ► If outdoors, the LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► Activities must be sited away from pedestrian traffic. A fencing area must be designated for the activity and be clearly identifiable. This space must be sufficient to Adventurous Activities Manual Page 33 Fencing Procedure avoid interference with other fencers and be well lit (not necessarily in bright sunlight). ► Jewellery and other ornaments are to be removed, and long hair impairing vision should be tied back but not up high. Fencers must wear covered footwear. If outdoors, sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. ► All fencers must wear mask, protective padding and glove (sword arm only) – the glove should include a ‘gauntlet’ to cover the sleeve and long sleeves should be worn. If fencing jackets are used, breast protectors must be worn. Correctly position masks with the chin inside the bottom section. ► Only foils are to be used, not epees or sabres. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► Foils are carried by the upper part of the blade, pointing downwards when not in use. ► Violent actions resulting in hard hitting, jostling and body contact are not allowed. Standard of Equipment Regulation fencing blades must always be used. Foil blades must be fitted with rubber tips or other approved protection. Masks must comply with international standards. All equipment must be well maintained, be inspected prior to each activity, and removed from use where necessary. Broken blades must not be repaired for use, and severely bent blades must be discarded. Where Activity can be Performed In a suitable open area (indoors or outdoors), including recognised fencing club venues, with foils only. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, or ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required. ► First Published September 2001 Page 34 Adventurous Activities Manual FIELD ARCHERY PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Specific Rules A ratio of one adult to ten participants is required. 1. A minimum of two adults should be present. 2. A field archery course consists of 24 different targets set out in a similar fashion to a golf course. Each target face has a set of five concentric rings drawn on it which are coloured white, black or grey. The center white spot scores five points, the next black ring scores four, the grey ring three and the last two outer rings (black and grey repeated) score two and one respectively. 3. Three archers stand beside a peg in the ground, indicating the shooting distance, and shoot three arrows each. They note their score and then progress to the next target lane. 4. The distances to be shot with each target vary between ten and sixty metres and the targets are smaller for the shorter distances. 5. Any rules governing the course shall be adhered to. Definition of Activity Field archery is a form of archery that simulates hunting by shooting at targets in natural bush settings with bow and arrows. Description of Activity Targets are made of paper or cardboard and backed with straw or earth mounds. The targets are positioned before the activity, and they may be changed from time to time. The skills are the same as those used for target archery but the scoring and targets are entirely different. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and archery skills. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for Camp First Aid in Guide Lines 5.3.1 page 5-9 Part A) ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor or Person in Activity Leader. Who can Participate Members who are fourteen years or in Year 9 at school, or older. Safety Requirements The Weapons Act classifies archery equipment as a firearm if used as a weapon. However for target shooting at field archery clubs, archery equipment is not a weapon under the meaning of the Weapons Act, but strict adherence to recognised safety procedures is essential. ► The ratified Instructor or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain and weather conditions in the area of the activity. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 35 Field Archery Procedure ► The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. have faulty flights or nocks must not be used. All bows must be strung to their recommended string heights. ► Jewellery and other ornaments likely to cause injury must be removed, and long hair secured. Loose fitting garments are not practical as they deflect the bowstring. Covered footwear is to be worn. Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. Where Activity can be Performed ► Archers must wear finger protection (tabs) and long armguards to cover the area above the elbow. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► All arrows should be the same length and matched to the shooter’s draw length. Side quivers are essential as the archer is continually on the move around the course. ► Groups of three archers are pre-positioned around the course and must wait for the field captain to signal the start of the round. ► Nocked arrows are pointed only in the direction of the target just prior to shooting. A bow is not drawn unless facing the target and intending to shoot. A bow is never drawn back to full drawn then released without an arrow in it. ► Always stand to the side of the target when arrows are being withdrawn. Caution must be taken when looking for an arrow and it is important to indicate to the following group any delay in moving off. This is usually done by placing a bow across the target face and then making either a verbal or visual signal to someone in the following group. ► Special care must be taken to ensure that the group in front has finished scoring and has moved off along the designated safety track to the next target before commencing shooting. ► Archers must stay on the designated paths through the forest at all times and must progress in sequence around the targets. ► All archers must be aware of the cease shooting signal should it be required. Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. All bows and arrows must be of the required safety standard acceptable to the governing body of the activity. Bows with cracks and stress marks must not be used. Strings showing signs of abrasion and wear must be replaced. Arrows that Page 36 Adventurous Activities Manual At any field archery course where ratified instruction is available or course recommended by a ratified Instructor. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, or ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required. ► First Published September 2001 FOUR WHEEL DRIVING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 Definition of Activity 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 Off road driving using a four wheel drive vehicle. Must be non competitive and in a controlled environment. 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Description of Activity Use of an all wheel drive vehicle to negotiate or explore terrain eg rough bush tracks, beaches, sand dunes, creek crossing, not normally accessible to conventional two wheel drive vehicles. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration Specific Rules 1. The vehicle must have an individual seat belt for every occupant. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and driving skills. 2. All occupants of the vehicle must wear a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion, whether on or off the road. ► Driver of vehicle must hold a current driver’s licence and have experience in off road four wheel driving, including knowledge of vehicle maintenance, basic repairs and towing procedure. If the driver does not own the vehicle, written authority from the registered vehicle owner must be obtained. 3. The vehicle must be registered. 4. Any rules/codes of conduct, which pertain to the area, are to be followed. ► If required, permission for land access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority such as National Parks and Wildlife Service, State Forestry, private land owners. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines). ► Where appropriate, someone other than the driver should be able to navigate and read a map; any restricted or out of bounds areas need to be identified. ► Where four wheel driving is the mode of transport used for an expedition over two or more days, the activity procedures for expeditions must be read in conjunction with this procedure. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader. Who can Participate Members, as passengers, who are ten years or in Year 5 at school, or older. Members, as drivers, who hold current driver’s licence and have appropriate driving experience. Safety Requirements The ratified Instructor or Leader in Charge (LiC) must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 37 Four Wheel Driving Procedure ► The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► The LiC shall ensure that appropriate responsible personnel eg National Parks Officers, local police/rescue personnel, District Leader, are advised of the members of the driving party, the proposed route, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures, and alternative routes to be used in case of an emergency. ► The minimum equipment required for the party is a winch/turfer, towrope, shovel, and axe. Each vehicle requires a readily accessible first aid kit, detailed topographic map (if available) and compass, and two litres drinking water per person. ► Each party must have some means of communicating with emergency services, such as two-way radio or CB radio. One per vehicle is advisable but not essential. ► At least two four-wheel drive vehicles must travel together as a party. ► Consideration should be given to having a co-driver for each vehicle in case a relief driver is required, particularly for long trips or trips over difficult terrain. ► Passengers should not distract the driver while the vehicle is in motion. Standard of Equipment The vehicle must be in a roadworthy condition and carrying the appropriate spare parts as determined by the driver and/or ratified Instructor. All equipment must be in good condition, and be inspected prior to each activity. Where Activity can be Performed Bush, country, coastal, outback and wilderness areas where four wheel driving is permitted. Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required Yes, or ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required. Page 38 Adventurous Activities Manual ► First Published September 2001 HIGH ROPES COURSES PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Traversing or climbing elements in a high ropes course that requires a belay system for safety. Description of Activity A ropes course is a series of individual and group physical challenges that require a combination of teamwork skills and individual commitment. Made up of rope, cables, and wood, courses are constructed outdoors in trees (or using telephone poles), and indoors in gymnasiums. The high elements on a rope course require a method of safety known as a belay system. Rope, karabiners, and other specialised hardware are used to provide protection for anyone climbing higher than can be safely spotted from the ground. The two different belay systems employed on high ropes courses are dynamic belays and static (or self) belays. Dynamic belays involve the use of a belayer who controls the safety rope to the participant. The belayer remains on the ground and is in a position to bring the participant to the ground in a controlled, gradual descent. A self-belay uses a four to five foot rope to clip-in a participant to the belay point from their harness. The participant makes their own way down from the element. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines) ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration Specific Rules 1. A ratified Instructor shall be responsible for no more than twelve participants 2. A minimum of two adults, one of which can be the ratified Instructor, is required for the activity. 3. A climber is not allowed on an element unsupervised. 4. All climbers must be checked by a ratified Instructor before ascending. 5. Horizontal elements eg Postman’s Walk, Burma Bridge should have only one climber on any one element except in a rescue situation. Vertical elements eg Dangle Duo, Vertical Playpen may have two climbers on the element. 6. For a dynamic belay, a minimum of a prime belay and backup belay are required on the ground in support of the climber (unless the prime belay is an Instructor). The belay team must maintain contact with the working rope while the climber is on belay. Participant belayers must be carefully supervised by an Instructor and must not be distracted while the belay is engaged. Considerations should also be given to enlisting the help of one of the group as a rope tidy person and another as an anchor for the prime belay (may not be needed). Kernmantle 11mm diameter rope is used for belaying. ► Participants should be taken through a series of warm-up and lead-up activities prior to using the ropes course. ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and spotting and belaying skills with hands-on familiarisation with the equipment. ► The course must be suitable for the participants and the program. This should be an integrated sequential challenge program rather than individual elements of a ropes course. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Adventurous Activities Manual Page 39 High Ropes Courses Procedure 7. For a static belay, the climber must have a buddy on the ground to monitor their safety. Both static safety lines remain attached to the karabiner on the climber’s harness at all times. At least one static line must be locked to the ladder or overhead safety line at all times. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with the Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader. Who can Participate Members who are twelve years or in Year 7 at school, or older. Safety Requirements ► The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► The minimum dress requirements are T-shirt and long-legged cotton or denim shorts, sturdy lace-up shoes with good grip. If participants wear bike pants, they must wear cotton shorts over the top. Shirts must be tucked in. Loose hair must be tied back. All jewellery must be removed, where possible. If outdoors, sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. ► Helmets, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, may be required on some elements and should be worn. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► Rescue equipment such as extra ropes, a ladder, and hardware, must be immediately accessible. ► Wire is the preferred construction material; where rope is necessary, the type/thickness of rope is selected according to the breaking strength required. ► The element and support tree/pole must be in good condition. Unauthorised/unsupervised access to the course must be restricted as much as possible. ► The ground under the ropes course must be cleared of all hazards such as tree stumps, rocks, fallen branches, glass, exposed roots. Page 40 Adventurous Activities Manual ► All belay ropes and hardware are to be properly set up. Only locking karabiners are to be used in the belay system. The karabiner must be clipped into the portion of the harness designed to accept it, and the gate screwed shut. Some elements require a rear clip-in; a Studebaker Wrap is preferred for this. ► Belay ropes must not be twisted or rubbing anywhere and only required knots are to be tied in ropes. Bowline on a bight or figure-8 loop are used in the end of the belay rope in conjunction with a safety knot to clip the karabiner into the harness. The rope can be tied directly into the harness if a figure-8 follow through is used. ► Property climbing/belaying signals are to be used to maintain good, clear communication with the climber at all times. Belayers/spotters must be in a position to see and communicate with the climber throughout the activity. Standard Of Equipment All equipment must conform to Australian standards. Equipment used during Guides Queensland sponsored activities (including privately owned equipment) shall be inspected for wear and damage prior to each activity. The ropes course shall be completely overhauled at least once in every twelve months by a suitably qualified person approved by the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee. All equipment shall be regularly maintained and damaged items replaced. Where Activity can be Performed At any high ropes course that has been regularly inspected and appropriately maintained. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes. ► First Published September 2001 HORSE RIDING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Riding a horse either as a member of a party or as an individual under instruction. Description of Activity Riding or being led on a horse in any environment, including paddocks, trails, tracks, roads. This activity deals with sensitive animals and participants should behave with care and consideration towards the horses. Additional information can be obtained from the Equestrian Federation of Queensland Australian Horse Riding Centres and Pony Club Association of Queensland. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. Participants should be given advice relating to the characteristics and behaviour of horses; the riding environment; all riding and stable protocols; and procedures with which they are expected to comply (such as following instructions). The Instructor should ensure that the advice has been understood. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures, riding skills, and behaviour around horses and, if necessary in the use and care of equipment. ► If required, permission for land access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as National Parks and Wildlife Service, State Forestry, private land owners. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines). ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration ► Where horse riding is the mode of transport used for an expedition over two or more days, the activity procedures for expeditions must be read in conjunction with this procedure. Specific Rules 1. The recommended maximum size of the riding party is twenty, but this should be reduced for beginner groups. All riders are to be considered as beginners unless an evaluation shows otherwise. 2. An Instructor should be responsible for no more than ten competent riders. A competent rider is confident and competent at riding a horse at a walk, trot and canter and displays abilities at controlling the horse. This number should be reduced for beginners. On a more difficult trail this number should be significantly lower and may require an assistant. 3. A minimum of two adults, one of which can be the ratified Instructor, is required for the activity. 4. The riding party should keep together as much as possible with an adult leading the group and bringing up the rear. Never ride alone. 5. When riding on a road a horse is considered as another vehicle and must keep to the left and obey all traffic rules and regulations. The group must ride in single file and all riders must be on the same side of the road. Only experienced riders should consider riding on roads with moderate to heavy traffic. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with the Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 41 Horse Riding Procedure Who can Participate Saddlebags are recommended for carrying any gear, etc. All youth and adult members. ► Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. Safety Requirements ► The LiC should satisfy herself that the ratified Instructor/s or other qualified personnel has checked the following: stirrup leathers are adjusted to the correct length; neck or monkey strap is used in case the rider loses the reins; girth checks are carried out; saddle fits correctly (lowest part in centre of back with no pressure on backbone of horse). ► The ratified Instructor or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► The LiC shall ensure that a responsible person who is not riding and can be contacted is advised of the members of the riding party, the general direction/area of the ride, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures, and alternative routes to be used in case of an emergency. ► Where possible, all horse riding sessions should begin in a confined area where staff can safely assess each participant’s ability and give some riding instruction before moving into larger paddocks or open spaces. ► Long trousers must be worn. These should be firm fitting and preferably without an inside seam. ► It is recommended that arms and shoulders be covered to minimise the risk of abrasions during a fall and also to prevent against sunburn. ► Loose clothing should be fastened so that it cannot flap about, to help prevent distractions to the horse or rider. Long hair should be tied back. It is advisable that jewellery, in particular rings and earrings, are not worn. Alternatively gloves may be worn to give protection against rings becoming caught. ► Sensible footwear is essential for riding. Riding boots are preferred footwear but suitable alternatives may be allowed for. For example, stout, strong shoes with a good heel (up to 2.5 cm) help prevent the foot from slipping through the stirrup iron. Riders should not be allowed to wear trainers or sandals unless suitable and safe adaptations to the tack have been made. If shoes with laces need to be worn, the laces must be well tied, tucked inside the shoe and taped down to ensure the laces cannot be caught on the stirrup or anything else. ► A comprehensive first aid kit must be available at the base site of the activity and a portable kit carried on trail rides. Drinking water should also be carried on long rides. ► Horse riding activities being undertaken should match the experience and ability of the participants. If there is any doubt about the horse’s suitability for the member’s use or its condition it should not be used. Standard of Equipment Helmets must conform to Australian standards. All equipment must be in good condition and be free from defects. Riding tack should be kept clean and supple and be well maintained. It is important that the tack is suitable and comfortable to both horse and the rider. All equipment and tack should be inspected regularly for any defects. Where Activity can be Performed Horse riding can be performed in any safe environment. Special care should be taken when riding along or beside a road. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required ► All participants must wear helmets that conform to Australian Standards, are of appropriate size and bear the stamp of Standards Australia. Helmets must be correctly fitted and adjusted and firmly fastened. Yes, or ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required. ► Backpacks, cameras or any other loose items that could affect control of the horse should not be worn. ► First Published May 2002 Page 42 Adventurous Activities Manual ORIENTEERING IN BUSH AREAS PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Navigation through unfamiliar country with the aid of a map and compass. Description of Activity This activity is like a car rally on foot. The aim is to find a series of control markers at significant features located on the map. Courses vary in length and navigational difficulty. Through orienteering the participant learns how to read a map and choose a suitable route, use a compass, measure the distance of travel, and find their way in unfamiliar terrain. Additional information can be obtained from the Queensland Orienteering Association (QOA). Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration Specific Rules 1. A ratio of one adult to ten participants is required. Adults may remain at registration/start unless a group is inexperienced or the ratified Instructor/ qualified Leader/LiC considers it necessary for the group to be accompanied. 2. A minimum of two adults should be present. 3. No smoking, no dogs, no littering. 4. The only navigation aids allowed are a map and compass. ► Basic map reading and compass skills is an advantage. 5. ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. A map of a suitable scale (up to 15,000) that has been recently updated or shows map corrections should be used. 6. Each group must carry a whistle (the emergency signal is a set of six blasts repeated at regular intervals); assistance must be given if another orienteer is injured. 7. Participants must report in at the start and out at the finish, even if the course is uncompleted. 8. Participants must be back by close of courses even if this means abandoning the course. 9. No entry to marked out of bounds areas is allowed; avoid houses and livestock and be careful crossing fences. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures, and if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and orienteering skills. ► If required, permission for land access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as National Parks and Wildlife Service, State Forestry or private land owners. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines 5). ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. 10. Unless otherwise indicated, controls must be visited in the order shown on the map. Avoid following other orienteers. 11. A control must never be moved. If it is in the wrong place notify the organiser. 12. Any rules/codes of conduct which pertain to the orienteering area are to be followed. Damage or disruption to property or the environment is to be avoided, wherever possible. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 43 Orienteering in Bush Areas Procedure Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor; qualified Leader (must have attended an orienteering training course) or Activity Leader where ratified Instructor not required (see below). Who can Participate Members who are eight years or in Year 3 at school, or older. Safety Requirements ► The ratified Instructor or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► The LiC shall ensure that a responsible person who is not orienteering and can be contacted is advised of the members of the orienteering party, the proposed location, estimated time of departure and arrival, and emergency procedures. ► Good walking shoes and hat are essential. At least one whistle, a map (in bag if necessary), and a compass per group, are essential. Appropriate body cover eg gaiters or jeans for bush courses, and sun screen and/or other sun protection are recommended. ► A course appropriate to the ability and fitness level of the participant should be chosen. Courses should be set according to QOA guidelines. Standard of Equipment Orienteering compass, not prismatic is recommended. All equipment must be in good condition, and be inspected prior to each activity. Where Activity can be Performed Orienteering can be undertaken at any event organised by the QOA or relevant State Orienteering Association. Orienteering in rugged bushland other than at such events must be checked, approved and supervised by a ratified Instructor. Orienteering in metropolitan bushland with clearly defined boundaries (eg Kindilan, Anzac Park, Mt Coot-tha, Toohey Forest) can be undertaken with a qualified Leader who has done an orienteering training course. Orienteering in parkland (ie containing no significant areas of bush) is not classified as an adventurous activity. Orienteering maps are available from the QOA (maps of private land will only be sold with the prior consent of the QOA Management Committee), camping venues, relevant Government Departments. Activity Consent Form Required Yes, except for orienteering in parkland. Ratified Instructor Required ► First aid equipment must be readily accessible. Yes; except in metropolitan bushland with clearly defined boundaries eg Kindilan, Anzac Park, Mt Coot-tha, Toohey Forest (qualified Leader then required who has attended an orienteering training course), and parkland eg Sherwood Arboretum, Kalinga Park, Marchant Park, school or Guide Hut grounds. ► The course should be free of conspicuous dangers or have those dangers highlighted or designated as out of bounds. ► First Published September 2001 ► Drinking water must either be provided on the course or carried by participants. ► Every participant must be informed of the safety bearing and close of courses time. ► Beginners should work in pairs. A Leader must attend events for eight to fourteen year olds, even when a ratified Instructor is present. It is recommended that in bushland an adult shadow the eight to ten year olds. Page 44 Adventurous Activities Manual PISTOL SHOOTING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules Definition of Activity 1. A minimum of two adults must be present. Shooting small-bore projectiles at stationary paper targets using small-arms pistols (.22) and/or air pistols. 2. Each pistol match has specific rules. Air pistol has 40 or 60 shots, shot in lots of 4 or 2 at small targets from 10m from the target. Description of Activity 3. Junior sport pistol is shot at a distance of 25m on a static target (30 shots) and on a target that turns away from the shooter for a specific time and then faces the shooter (30 shots). Targets are set up at distances of 10m, 25m or 50m and participants shoot at the targets with the aim of scoring the highest number of points. Additional information can be obtained from the Queensland Pistol Shooting Assn, Sporting Shooters Assn Australia or local pistol club. Who Can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants need to be reasonably fit, as a pistol can be quite heavy. Weight training of 3kg to shoulder height may be included as a pre-activity training exercise. ► The Leader in charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures (including firearm safety, range procedures, theory of small arms fire) and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and shooting skills. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines). ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 Who Can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader with qualifications from Pistol Australia and a thorough knowledge of the rules and safety procedures of pistol shooting. Who Can Participate Members who are eleven years or older as per the requirements of the Queensland Weapons Act 1990. Minimum age may vary according to club rules. Contact the local club for details. Safety Requirements ► If outdoors, the LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► Covered footwear, eye and ear protection must be worn. If outdoors, sunscreen and/or other sun protection is recommended. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► The range must have a current licence. Special conditions as determined by the licence must be met before shooting commences. Range procedures must be followed. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 45 Pistol Shooting Procedure ► Weapons must be declared safe before any movement is made to remove weapons from the bench. A firearm is in a safe condition when the action is open and it is unloaded. ► At no time are firearms to be handled when persons are forward of the firing line. ► Loading is done only after the range officer has permitted it. ► Only five shooters are permitted at the firing line (although this does not apply with air pistols). Only shooters and coaches are permitted at the firing line. ► Pistols are pointed down the range at all times. ► Shooting cannot commence until the range officer gives the signal to fire. ► Shooters must not step or reach in front of the firing line while shooting is in progress. ► Firing is to stop on the command Cease Fire. Make pistol safe and await further instructions. A firearm is in a safe condition when the action is open and it is unloaded. ► Weapons must be declared safe after inspection by range safety officer, prior to any movement to retrieve targets. ► Reconciliation of ammunition should take place after shooting, ie how much to begin with, how many shots, what ammunition is left. Standard Of Equipment All weapons must be in first-class condition and inspected prior to each activity. Eye and ear protection must conform to Australian standards. All equipment must be in good condition, and be inspected prior to each activity. Where Activity Can Be Performed On a licenced pistol range. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Page 46 Adventurous Activities Manual Ratified Instructor Required Yes. ► First Published September 2001 PRUSSIKING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTES This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Specific Rules 1. ► These procedures apply when prussiking is done as a stand-alone activity. If participants are abseiling or training for an abseil qualification then the procedures for abseiling apply. A ratified Instructor shall control no more than four rope anchor points for prussikers at any one time. The Instructor shall have eye contact with all ropes that are in use. 2. Prussikers must be under the supervision of a ratified Instructor during all ascent/descents and at least two Leaders/adults (other than Instructors) must be present. Description of Activity 3. A basic method of ascending and descending a rope using a friction device (mechanical or knot) and harness. Prussiking ropes shall be kermantle static or superstatic of 11mm diameter. 4. Prussik cords shall have a minimum diameter of 5mm. 5. Prussikers must wear helmets, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, at all times when prussiking and within designated safety areas. 6. Any rules/codes of conduct that pertain to the prussiking area are to be followed. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment and prussiking skills. This must include hands-on familiarisation with the equipment and shall be given at the site before the group commences prussiking. ► The ratified Instructor must hold a current Red Cross or St John Ambulance First Aid Certificate or equivalent. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Prussiking Leader or Ratified Abseil Leader, Instructor or Assessor. Prussiking Leaders are prussikers of at least eighteen years of age who have successfully completed the appropriate course/s (as determined by Guides Queensland) and/or meet the standards set by Guides Queensland and the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee. Who can Participate Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 Safety Requirements 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 ► The ratified Leader must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain and weather conditions in the area of the activity. For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Members who are seven years or in Year 2 at school, or older, provided suitable equipment is available. ► The ratified Leader, in consultation with the LiC, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 47 Prussiking Procedure ► The minimum dress requirements are T-shirt (preferably with collar) and long-legged cotton or denim shorts, sturdy lace-up shoes with good grip. If participants wear bike pants, they must wear cotton shorts over the top. Shirts must be tucked in. Long hair must be plaited and loose hair must be tied back. Hair should be secured under helmet. Jewellery such as necklaces, bracelets, and long earrings must be removed where possible. Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended when outdoors. ► Drinking water and first aid and rescue equipment must be readily accessible to the ratified Instructor. ► A safety area shall be designated at the bottom of the prussiking site. Standard of Equipment All equipment must conform to Australian or UIAA/CE standards. Prussiking equipment used during Guides Queensland sponsored activities (including privately owned equipment) shall be inspected for wear and damage prior to and after each activity, and a usage/ inspection log maintained. Inspection must take place at least once in every twelve months by an Instructor or similarly qualified person approved by the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee. All equipment must be stored and maintained with care and must not be used for purposes other than prussiking, abseiling, climbing and caving activities and high ropes courses. Where Activity can be Performed At any site deemed suitable by the ratified prussiking Leader Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required Yes ► First Published August 2001 Page 48 Adventurous Activities Manual RAFTING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Definition of Activity Age range of Guides Ratio Recreational activity involving floating on water on a more or less rigid platform made of buoyant materials. 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 The activity of white water rafting is not covered by this procedure. Description of Activity The raft may be a commercial inflatable raft or do-ityourself construction. The activity can be conducted on a body of open water such as a dam, lake, creek, river, or ocean, out of reach of shore rescue. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. • a member holding qualifications (as defined by Guide Lines) OR ► Participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts, sneakers and a personal flotation device (PFD), or hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Swim and Survive level 3 or higher. ► The Leader in charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. • a competent person from outside Guides Queensland, who has been ratified by the State Water Activities Committee. 2. A ratio of one qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leader to six other canoeists is required. 3. A minimum of two qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leaders should be present. When it is not possible for two qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Instructors to be present for an activity, other responsible adults or extra people with basic skills should be present in order to satisfy safety and risk management considerations. 4. A responsible person who is not the ratified Instructor may be required for shore supervision of participants. 5. Consideration should be given to the use of a powered safety boat if the rafting is on moving water or is being used as a mode of transport . ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and rafting skills. ► If required, permission for water access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as private landowners. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures and have current qualifications in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). At the discretion of the LiC and depending on the nature of the activity, this person may be on the shore or in a rescue boat. ► Where rafting is the mode of transport used for an expedition over two or more days, the activity procedures for expeditions must be read in conjunction with this procedure. Craft must be closely supervised by either: Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Water Activities/Outdoor Consultant. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 49 Rafting Procedure Who Can Control the Activity The qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leaders or Activity Leader. Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Age and experience must be considered in light of conditions at the time of the activity. Safety Requirements ► The qualified/ratified Canoeing Activity Leaders or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and water and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The grading of water depends on the conditions in the area on the day of the activity. The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► Where necessary, the LiC shall ensure that a responsible person who is not participating and can be contacted is advised of the members of the party, location of activity, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures, and where appropriate, the proposed route. water, waterproofed food and clothing and equipment appropriate to conditions that may be encountered, craft repair kit, and map with route. Standard of Equipment Rafts must be in a seaworthy condition. All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. PFDs and crash helmets must conform to Australian standards. Where Activity can be Performed On Grade 1 and Grade 2 water as per Guide Lines Grade 1 water: Small enclosed areas of water, water within hailing distance of the shore, slow-moving water than can be handled by every participant. This would include very small dams, small rapids that all participants can handle and sheltered edges of large dams. Grade 2 water: Faster moving water, small rapids, small harbours and strong tidal water. This includes large dams, lakes or river estuaries affected by current, tide or wind, or areas of heavy boat traffic such as the lower reaches of the Brisbane River. It also includes heavy white water when the track through is safe. ► The minimum dress requirements are shorts or bike pants, a protective shirt (preferably with a collar), lace up shoes that can be worn in the water, and a brimmed hat that can be tied on. Long jeans or pants, very short shorts, swimming togs, baseball caps, thongs, surf sandals, or sleeveless shirts are not appropriate. Sunscreen is recommended. Not on Grade 3 water or above. ► A properly fitted and secured PFD bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, and appropriate to the activity, must be worn at all times when taking part in rafting. Activity Consent Form Required ► A crash helmet, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, suitable for white water rafting, must be worn when rafting on Grade 2 water. ► Drinking water, first aid and rescue equipment must be readily accessible. ► Non-contact rescue aids such as flotation aids, poles or ropes must be readily accessible and a powered rescue craft may be required to effect a rescue (must carry a tow rope). ► For extended trips/all day expeditions, all party members must carry a personal first aid kit, drinking Page 50 Adventurous Activities Manual Grade 3 water: Rapids which have many obstacles, water confused; areas of rivers where traffic is very heavy; open lakes and dams where distance and wind cause additional hazards; turbulent surf – a high level of expertise and training is required. Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, or ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required. ► First Published September 2001 RIFLE SHOOTING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules Definition of Activity 1. Small Bore Rifle Match (.22 calibre) Shooting small-bore projectiles at stationary paper targets using small bore rifles (.22 calibre) and/or air rifles (.177 calibre). 1.1 A minimum of two qualified adults must be present during the activity. Description of Activity 1.2 The rifle match contested has specific rules and is generally referred to as the “Field Rifle Rimfire Match”. A total of 42 rounds are shot as follows: There are two activities that may be undertaken. 1.2.1 Rapid fire: 3 shots are fired in 15 seconds. This is carried out 4 times (total 12 shots) on a paper target at a distance of 25m. Small bore rifle: Targets are set at distances of 25m and 50m and participants shoot at the targets with the aim of scoring the highest number of points. Air rifles: Targets are set at 10m and participants shoot at the targets with the aim of scoring the highest number of points. 1.2.2 Standing Unsupported: 10 shots are fired in 10 minutes on a paper target at a distance of 25m. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements 1.2.3 Standing Post Rest: 10 shots are fired in 10 minutes on a paper target at a distance of 50m. ► Participants need to be reasonably fit, as the rifle can be quite heavy. Weight training of 3kg to shoulder height may be included as a pre-activity training exercise. 1.2.4 Sitting Post Rest: 10 shots are fired in 10 minutes on a paper target at a distance of 50m ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures (including firearm safety, range procedures, theory of small arms fire) and if necessary, in the use and care of equipment and shooting skills. ► One adult present must have knowledge of, and ability to, perform first aid procedures. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides Minimum number of adults 2. Air Rifle Match (.177 calibre) 2.1 A minimum of two adults must be present during the activity. 2.2 The rifle match is generally referred to as “10 Metre Paper Target Match”. A total of 30 rounds are shot as follows: 2.2.1 Standing Unsupported: 5 shots are fired in 5 minutes on a paper target at a distance of 10 metres. 2.2.2 This is carried out six times (i.e. total of 30 shots). Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 Adventurous Activities Manual Page 51 Rifle Shooting Procedure Who can Control the Activity ► Firing is to stop on the command ‘Cease Fire’, and participants are to await further instructions. Ratified Instructor or a Activity Leader with range officer qualifications and a thorough knowledge of the rules and safety procedures of rifle shooting. ► Firearms must be declared safe by the range officer or range officer’s appointee and placed on the ground or rack if provided prior to any movement forward of the firing line to retrieve targets. At no time are firearms to be handled while persons are forward of the firing line. Who can Participate Members who have attained the age of 11 years or more. The minimum age limit is a requirement of the Queensland Weapons Act 1990. Minimum age may vary according to club rules. Contact your local club for details. Safety Requirements ► If outdoors, the LiC, in consultation with the Ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► Covered footwear, eye and ear protection must be worn. If outdoors, sunscreen and/or other sun protection are recommended. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► The club must be an Approved Shooting Club with the appropriate range approvals. Range procedures must be followed at all times. ► The range officer’s instructions must be followed immediately. Participants must avoid talking on the firing line so that the range officer may be easily heard. ► Firearms must be inspected and declared safe by the range officer prior to movement on to the range. A firearm is in a safe condition when the action is open and it is unloaded. ► The firearm is only to be loaded after the range officer has given permission. The shooters must keep their finger outside of the trigger guard until sighted on the target and ready to shoot. Shooting cannot commence until the range officer gives permission to fire. ► Only five shooters are permitted on the firing line at any one time. Only the range officer, range officer’s appointees and shooters to be on the firing line. Firearms are to remain pointing downrange at all times while on the firing line. ► Shooters must not step or reach in front of the firing line while shooting is in progress. Page 52 Adventurous Activities Manual ► Reconciliation of ammunition must take place after the completion of shooting. i.e. how many rounds to begin with, how many shots fired, what ammunition is left? Standard of Equipment All firearms must be in first class condition and inspected prior to each activity. Eye and ear protection must conform to Australian Standards. Where Activity can be Performed At a licenced shooting club and on a licenced range. Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required Yes ROGAINING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity ► One adult present must have a knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines) ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. The sport of long distance cross-country navigation. Description of Activity Participants travelling on foot in teams of two to five people using only maps, compasses and natural aids to navigate over a course. The course consists of compulsory starting and finishing points and a number of optional checkpoints at accurately determined locations. These locations are marked by participants, or pre-marked by organisers, as points on the specified event map which is an existing contour map, usually at a scale of 1:25,000 or 1:50,000. The map will not necessarily be up to date. Each checkpoint has a points value which is allocated to any team visiting it. The aim is to accumulate points within the stipulated time limit (from 4 to 24 hours), with points being deducted for exceeding this time limit. For events over 12 hours, meals and a camping location are usually provided by the organisers. Additional information can be obtained from the Queensland Rogaining Association. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Some degree of physical fitness, map reading and compass skills is an advantage. ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and rogaining skills. ► If required, permission for land access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as National Parks and Wildlife Service, State Forestry or private land owners. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. A ratio of one adult to ten participants is required. Adults may remain at the ‘hash house’ (central base camp) unless the group is inexperienced or the ratified Instructor/qualified Leader/LiC considers it necessary for the group to be accompanied. 2. A minimum of two adults should be present. 3. No dogs, no littering, no firearms, no fires while out on the course (organisers may prohibit fires at base camp, and smoking). 4. A team, consisting of two to five people, must remain together (ie in verbal contact) at all times while on the course except in an emergency. 5. The only navigation aids allowed are a compass and the specified rogaine map. 6. No entry to marked out of bounds areas is allowed; avoid houses, livestock, planted fields, and be careful crossing fences; do not damage or disturb native flora or fauna. 7. All team members must report in at the start and out at the finish. Teams finishing late will be penalised at the rate specified; if more than 30 minutes late, no points are allocated. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 53 Rogaining Procedure 8. Each team must carry a whistle, first aid kit and drinking water. Standard of Equipment 9. Competitors travel only on foot. A team shall not accept assistance from, or collaborate with, other people or deliberately follow another team. Nothing must be left on the course. All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. 10. All team members must go to within 20 metres of each checkpoint visited and record their visit on their scorecard with the punch and by filling in the intention sheet at the checkpoint. 11. Competitors must not interfere with a marker or rest within 100 metres of it. Teams may return to the ‘hash house’ at any time to eat, rest or sleep. Where Activity can be Performed Rogaining can be undertaken at any event organised by a Rogaining Association. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Organiser nominated by the relevant State Rogaining Association. Who can Participate Members who are fourteen years or in Year 9 at school, or older. Safety Requirements ► The LiC, in consultation with the organiser, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► The LiC shall ensure that a responsible person who is not participating and can be contacted is advised of the members of the rogaining party, the proposed location, estimated time of departure and arrival, and emergency procedures. ► Good walking shoes, whistle, first aid kit, hat, torch, compass, waterproof jacket, warm clothing (depending on time of year), high-energy food, drinking water, sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection are recommended. ► The course should be free of conspicuous dangers or have those dangers highlighted or designated as out of bounds. Page 54 Adventurous Activities Manual Ratified Instructor Required No. However, competency in map reading essential ► First Published September 2001 SAILBOARDING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio Definition of Activity 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 Riding a sailboard across the water. 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 Description of Activity The sailboard is a lightweight, polyurethane surfboard, equipped with a mast and sail. The rider moves across the water by manoeuvring the sail. Locations such as inland lakes, dams, lagoons, breakwater areas, and coastal waters can be used for sailboarding. Windsurfing is sailboarding in surf. Additional information can be obtained from the Queensland Yachting Association. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. A ratio of one adult to five participants is required; this may need to be reduced for novice riders. 2. A minimum of two adults should be present. 3. A lifesaver with appropriate qualifications must be present. A lifesaver must be a responsible person, over the age of sixteen years and hold the required qualification, ie RLSSA Patrol Lifeguard or Surf Life Saving Australia Ltd (SLSA). 4. The lifesaver must not participate in the activity while on duty (unless supervising on the water). 5. A buddy system should be used, that is pairing each participant with another of similar ability. 6. Beginners should not be exposed to winds in excess of eight knots, and no riders to winds in excess of twenty knots. 7. Harnesses must not be worn by beginners. 8. Commercial operators must hold public liability insurance; privately owned powerboats must have third party insurance. 9. A responsible person who is not the ratified Instructor/lifesaver may be required for shore supervision of participants. ► Sailboarding is a very physically demanding and challenging activity. ► Participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts, sneakers, and a personal flotation device (PFD), or hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Swim and Survive level 3 or higher. ► The Leader in charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in use and care of equipment, and sailboarding skills. This should include rigging/derigging of the board and self-rescue. If available, a dry land simulator should be used before sailboarding for the first time. ► A set of simple signals should be established and practiced to allow communication between boards and shore. ► If a power boat driver is required, they must hold an appropriate powerboat licence and comply with any relevant legislation or regulations eg Harbours and Marine, Local Authority, Dept of Transport. Who can Authorise the Activity ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. Who can Control the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Water Activities /Outdoors Consultant. Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 55 Sailboarding Procedure Who can Participate ► A device able to cut rope should be available if a participant becomes entangled. Members who are 13 years or in Year 8 at school, or older. ► Participants should stay with the sailboard while on or in the water. Safety Requirements: Sailboarding must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris, and should be known to the ratified Instructor or LiC. Areas with strong currents, tides or wind eddies, and rocks must be avoided. The grading of water depends on the conditions in the area on the day of the activity. The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► The sailboarding area must be carefully chosen and clearly defined, with consideration to other water traffic and the ability of the participants. ► Participants should wear protective non-slip footwear and protection against sun and cold; wet suits are recommended. Marine stinger protection should be used in marine stinger areas. ► A correctly fitted PFD, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, must be worn while sailboarding. Some sailboarding harnesses are also approved buoyancy vests. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible, and a repair tool kit is recommended. ► A safety vessel suitable for the area of operation, fitted with the equipment necessary to effect a rescue, must be available and ready for use. In Grade 2 conditions this should be a powered vessel. ► Each universal joint must be in good order, and not made of rope. A mast leash is recommended. ► The centreboard should be attached to the mast. ► The skeg must be firmly attached, and have no sharp edges. ► All haul ropes must be in good order and secure. ► The sail should be capable of being de-rigged whether on shore or on water. ► Each sailboard must have sufficient volume to support the weight of the rig and sailor. ► The ratified Instructor must maintain visual contact with the group while on or in the water. Page 56 Adventurous Activities Manual Standard of Equipment All equipment used must be in good condition, be inspected prior to each activity, and selected to suit the age and ability of the participants. PFDs must conform to Australian standards. Boards/craft must be in a seaworthy condition. Boards are to comply with the Australian Yachting Federation Board Sailing Regulations and State Boating Regulations. Where Activity can be Performed On Grade 1 and 2 water as per Guide Lines, including recognised resorts and aquatic centres ratified by Guides Queensland, except in restricted or prohibited areas. Grade 1 water: Small enclosed areas of water, water within hailing distance of shore, slow-moving water that can be handled by every participant. This would include very small dams, small rapids that all participants can handle and sheltered edges of large dams. Grade 2 water: Faster moving water, small rapids, small harbours and strong tidal water. This includes large dams, lakes or river estuaries affected by current, tide or wind, or areas of heavy boat traffic such as the lower reaches of the Brisbane River. It also includes heavy white water when the track through is safe. Not on Grade 3 water or above. Grade 3 water: Rapids which have many obstacles, water confused; areas of rivers where traffic is very heavy; open lakes and dams where distance and wind cause additional hazards; turbulent surf – a high level of expertise and training is required. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, or ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required. ► First Published September 2001 SAILING (SMALL CRAFT) PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Boating activity using a small wind-powered vessel (usually less than 6 metres). Description of Activity Travelling on inland or inshore waters in a dinghy or catamaran under four metres in length propelled by the action of wind on a sail. For craft over four metres in length, the activity procedures for Sailing Large Craft apply. Additional information can be obtained from the Queensland Yachting Association. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements For small boats (under ten metres), participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts, sneakers and a personal flotation device (PFD), or hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia Swim and Survive level 3 or higher. legislation or regulations eg Harbours and Marine, Local Authority, Dept of Transport. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. A ratio of one adult to five participants is required; this may need to be reduced for novice sailors. 2. A minimum of two adults should be present. 3. The LiC must ensure that a person with current qualifications in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is present. At the discretion of the LiC and depending on the nature of the activity, this person may be on the shore or in a rescue boat. 4. Beginners should not be exposed to winds in excess of twelve to fifteen knots, and no sailors to winds in excess of twenty knots. • uncontrolled swinging of the boom during gybe of go-about; 5. The craft must not be used without a current seaworthiness certificate. • uncontrolled, rapid unwinding of winches; 6. Commercial operators must hold public liability insurance; privately owned powerboats must have third party insurance. 7. A responsible person who is not the ratified Instructor/lifesaver may be required for shore supervision of participants. ► The LiC must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in use and care of equipment, and sailing skills. This should include rigging a boat and righting a capsized craft and include discussion of specific hazards such as : • entanglement in sheets and lines; • person overboard; • danger of collisions and • deteriorating conditions ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for Camp First Aid in Guide Lines), and to recover a sailor from the water or deal with an emergency situation. Who can Authorise the Activity ► A power boat driver must hold an appropriate powerboat licence and comply with any relevant District Leader, in consultation with Region Water Activities/Outdoors Consultant. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 57 Sailing (Small Craft) Procedure Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader. ► Centreboards must be sufficiently robust to resist distortion when supporting the weight of at least one crew member when righting a craft following capsize. Who can Participate ► Rudders and centreboards must be positively secured to the hull so that they remain in position when the hull is inverted. Members who are eleven years or in Year 6 at school, or older. ► The mast must be completely sealed or drainable at its foot. Safety Requirements ► The boat must have a secured paddle and correct hull identification. ► Sailing must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris, and should be known to the ratified Instructor or LiC. Areas with strong currents, tides or wind eddies, and rocks must be avoided. ► The grading of water depends on the conditions in the area on the day of the activity. The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► The sailing area must be carefully chosen and clearly defined, with consideration to other water traffic and the ability of the participants. ► The minimum dress requirements are shorts or bike pants, a protective shirt (preferably with a collar), lace-up shoes that can be worn in the water, and a brimmed hat that can be tied on. Sunscreen is recommended. A wet suit may be advisable in cold weather. ► A correctly fitted PFD, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, must be worn while sailing. ► The ratified Instructor must maintain visual contact with the group while on or in the water. ► Participants should stay with the craft while on or in the water. Standard of Equipment All equipment used must be in good condition, be inspected prior to each activity, and selected to suit the age and ability of the participants. PFDs must conform to Australian standards. Craft must be in a seaworthy condition and comply with the Australian Yachting Federation Safety Regulations and State Boating Regulations. Where Activity can be Performed On Grade 1, 2 and 3 water as per Guide Lines, except in restricted or prohibited areas ► A suitable powered rescue craft with an experienced handler and assistant may be required to effect a rescue. This rescue craft must carry first aid and rescue equipment, repair tool kit, spare parts, and other emergency equipment. Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible to sailors. Grade 1 water: Small enclosed areas of water, water within hailing distance of shore, slow-moving water that can be handled by every participant. This would include very small dams, small rapids that all participants can handle and sheltered edges of large dams. ► Where harnesses are in use, ensure sailors can release the harness in any situation. ► The craft must be buoyant when swamped and fitted with a sturdy ring to be used in towing. Craft which are not self-draining must carry an adequate bailer secured to the boat. Grade 2 water: Faster moving water, small rapids, small harbours and strong tidal water. This includes large dams, lakes or river estuaries affected by current, tide or wind, or areas of heavy boat traffic such as the lower reaches of the Brisbane River. It also includes heavy white water when the track through is safe. ► The mainsail must be capable of being lowered easily by hand, whether the boat is upright or capsized. Some means of reefing sails or smaller sets of sails must be available in areas where strong winds are likely to affect the program. Grade 3 water: Rapids which have many obstacles, water confused; areas of rivers where traffic is very heavy; open lakes and dams where distance and wind cause additional hazards; turbulent surf – a high level of expertise and training is required. Not on Grade 4 water or above. Page 58 Adventurous Activities Manual Sailing (Small Craft) Procedure Grade 4 water: White water canoeing; heavy dangerous and confused water; open coastal ‘blue’ water. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, or ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required. ► First Published September 2001 Adventurous Activities Manual Page 59 SCUBA DIVING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity An underwater swimming activity involving the use of self-contained underwater breathing apparatus. Description of Activity ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures and have current qualifications in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) ► LiC must contact activity provider for relevant information regarding additional health, safety and consent information that may be required prior to the activity day. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults An introductory scuba program with training in the use of scuba equipment in a pool, basic theory and, possibly, an introductory dive in open water. Age range of Guides Ratio Any scuba diving beyond an introductory program or where participants are working towards scuba qualifications must be conducted according to the Australian Standard AS 4005.1 Australian Standard, Training and Certification of Recreational Divers. 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Scuba diving is a very physically demanding and challenging activity ► Participants must be able to demonstrate the ability to submerge and resurface confidently without scuba equipment For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. Instructor/participant ratios: In a pool for skills training, a minimum of one qualified instructor to eight participants. In open water, where participants have completed the necessary prerequisite skills training, a minimum of one qualified instructor to four participants, that is, two buddy pairs. 2. A minimum of two adults must be present. 3. A responsible adult, who is not the ratified instructor, may be required to supervise participants not in the water. 4. When not in the water participants need to protect themselves from the elements eg. Shirt sun block and hat or jumper and long pants. 5. Hand spears/guns and knives must not be used while diving. ► Participants must be able to swim 200 metres and float and / or tread water for 10 minutes (without the use of mask, fins, snorkel or flotation equipment) ► Participants with one or more of the following medical conditions must obtain, within the previous three months, a certificate of diving fitness from a medical practitioner certified in diving medicine: Chronic ear infection, perforated eardrum, epilepsy, seizures, blackouts, chronic bronchitis, severe asthma and heart or lung conditions. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and in the care and use of equipment. ► Where a power craft is required to accompany participants, the boat driver must hold an appropriate powerboat licence and comply with any relevant legislation or regulation eg Harbours and Marine, Local Authority, Dept of Transport. Page 60 Adventurous Activities Manual Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Water Activities/Outdoors Consultant. Scuba Diving Procedure • Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Bronze Medallion or higher. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor Who can Participate Members who are fifteen years or in Year 10 at school, or older. Safety Requirements ► Diving must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such a snags and floating debris and obvious dangers such as boat traffic, people fishing, water skiers and potentially dangerous marine animals. ► The LiC or ratified Instructor must have knowledge of the locality, facilities and water and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The LiC or ratified Instructor must be prepared to alter or cancel the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► Before the activity begins, all equipment must be checked to ensure that it is operating satisfactorily. Wetsuits must be worn, hoods and gloves are strongly recommended. ► The lifesaver must not participate in the activity while on duty. Standard of Equipment Equipment must be in good condition and be checked prior to each activity and fit correctly. The compressed air cylinder and valve must have a current test stamp. Where Activity can be Performed Public and private swimming pools and in areas of calm, clear water. Activity Consent Form Required Yes (note: additional health information may be required, see pre-activity training and requirements) Ratified Instructor Required Yes ► The diving area is to be clearly defined with the diving point within 200 metres of the shore or 90 metres of the boat in open water. ► The diving site must have divers’ flags displayed. ► Participants should not dive below a depth of 18 metres. Venues must be carefully selected so that participants cannot descend to an unsafe depth if they lose buoyancy. ► At all times there must be unimpeded access to the surface. Therefore, diving into caves or shipwrecks is prohibited. ► The venue must have safe and ready accessibility for emergency personnel. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► A lifesaver other than the activity instructors must be present. The lifesaver must be a responsible person over the age of sixteen years and hold the required qualification as follows. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 61 SNORKELLING (WATER OVER SHOULDER DEEP) PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 Definition of Activity 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 The use of a dive mask and snorkel that allow a swimmer to breath while their head is underwater. 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 Description of Activity Using surface breathing apparatus and swimming aids, a person may either swim face downwards on the surface of the water (snorkel swimming) or dive below to view the seabed, fish, coral etc (snorkel diving). The breathing apparatus consists of a snorkel tube, one end of which is put in the mouth while the other projects above the surface. This activity is conducted in open water over shoulder deep. For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. A ratio of one qualified adult to eight participants is required. 2. A lifesaver with appropriate qualifications or a qualified Dive Instructor must be present. A lifesaver must be a responsible person, over the age of sixteen years and hold the required qualification as follows. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants need to be able to swim 200 metres and stay afloat for five minutes wearing shirt, shorts and sneakers, or hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Swim and Survive level 7 or higher. ► Participants with one or more of the following medical conditions must have a current certificate from a medical practitioner: chronic ear infection, perforated eardrum, epilepsy, seizures or blackouts, chronic bronchitis, severe asthma, heart or lung conditions. • Sea, rivers and other open water: RLSSA Patrol Lifeguard OR Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) Bronze Medallion or higher award. • Surfing Beaches: RLSSA Patrol Lifeguard 3. The lifesaver must not participate in the activity while on duty (unless supervising in the water). 4. Appropriate safety rules should be established and adhered to. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures. 5. Strategies for safe participation in snorkelling should be implemented. ► Participants must demonstrate competency in snorkel swimming and be instructed in the requirements for snorkel diving. 6. Safety checks, (e.g. buddy system and roll checks) should be established as part of the session. 7. Participants should be instructed in hygienic practices when sharing equipment. 8. Snorkelling should not be undertaken with blocked ears or nose. 9. Hand spears/guns must not be used while snorkelling. ► Where a power craft is required to accompany participants, the boat driver must hold an appropriate powerboat licence and comply with any relevant legislation or regulations eg Harbours and Marine, Local Authority, Dept of Transport. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines. Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults Page 62 Adventurous Activities Manual 10. Any rules/codes of conduct that pertain to the area are to be followed. Snorkelling (Water over shoulder deep) Procedure 11. Commercial operators must hold public liability insurance; privately owned powerboats must have third party insurance. 12. A responsible person who is not the lifesaver/ Activity Instructor may be required for shore supervision of participants. Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with the Region Water Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified person or Activity Leader. Who can Participate ► Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. Marine stinger protection should be used in marine stinger areas. Wetsuits should be worn in cold conditions. ► Non-contact rescue aids such as flotation aids, poles or ropes, first aid equipment and drinking water must be readily accessible, and a powered rescue craft may be required to effect a rescue (must carry a tow rope). ► The location of, and procedure for contacting the relevant emergency services must be known. Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition, be inspected prior to each activity, fit correctly and should be appropriate for the activity. Craft must be in a seaworthy condition. Members who are 12 years or older. • Equipment should be checked carefully before use and should conform with Australian Standards specifications. Safety Requirements • Young participants should use small-bore diameter snorkels. ► Snorkelling must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris. ► Where appropriate, the ratified person must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain and water and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The snorkelling area is clearly defined. ► Snorkelling location must be appropriate to the phase of the program and/or the ability level of the participants – depth of water, tidal flow, currents, visibility, water temperature, underwater vegetation, marine life and protection from watercraft must be considered. The ratified person must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► For open water snorkelling situations, at least one adult must be on the surface/shore. The surface support person must be capable and prepared to effect a rescue and /or raise the alarm at any time. They must be advised of the members of the snorkelling party, the proposed snorkelling location, estimated time of departure and arrival, and emergency procedures. • Face masks should have nose pockets and tempered glass. • Participants should use their own masks, fins and snorkels for safety, hygiene and comfort. • Equipment should not be stored with poolmaintenance materials. Where Activity can be Performed Sea, rivers and other open water, surfing beaches. Activity Consent Form Required Yes (note: additional health information may be required, see pre-activity training and requirements) Ratified Instructor Required Yes ► If the water is of variable depth, the higher qualification as per Guide Lines is required for the lifesaver, ie if water is over shoulder height, CPR is not sufficient. ‘Shoulder height’ means the shoulder height of the shortest person involved in the activity. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 63 SNOW CAMPING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity ► See separate procedure for expeditions and wilderness walking. ► Also where skiing is undertaken as part of the activity, the activity procedures for snow skiing must be read in conjunction with this procedure. Specific Rules Camping and touring in alpine and mountain areas where snow has fallen or is a possibility. 1. A group must consist of at least four people and a buddy system should be used. Description of Activity 2. Ratio of adults to participants and number of adults required as per Guide Lines under 5. Camping – Rules and Qualifications. These are minimum requirements and may need to be adjusted depending on the age and experience of the group, program, weather, and location. 3. When vehicles are used in snow areas, snow chains that fit must be carried. 4. Any rules/codes of conduct that pertain to the area are to be followed. Activities undertaken with alpine or snow conditions carry a significant risk for those not familiar with the conditions which can be changeable and extremely hazardous. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► The Leader in charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and camping skills. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines), including recognising and treating hypothermia) and emergency procedures. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Page 64 Adventurous Activities Manual Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader (DL), in consultation with Region Camping Consultant (RCC) and Region Adventurous Activities Consultant (RAAC). For interstate camps, the LiC discusses the proposal with the DL, RCC and RAAC. Application is then made at least six months prior to the activity through the DL and the State Outdoor Manager to State Executive for approval. Who can Control the Activity Unit Leader experienced in the activity planned and holding the appropriate qualifications. Who can Participate Members who are twelve years or in Year 7 at school, or older. Age and experience must be considered in light of conditions at the time of the activity. Safety Requirements ► The LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing snow and weather conditions. Snow Camping Procedure ► The LiC shall ensure that a responsible person who is not camping and can be contacted is advised of the members of the camping party, the proposed route, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures, and alternative routes to be used in case of an emergency. ► Each Leader should be aware of the total program and of her specific responsibilities. Leaders should know how the emergency services operate, and how to get help should the need arise. ► Members must be adequately clothed for the coldest conditions. Wool or thermal wear has good insulation. Jeans, windcheaters and cotton clothing are to be avoided. Several layers of clothing are better than one thick one. Sun protection including ski goggles or sunglasses, headwear and sunscreen is essential. Wet weather gear should be waterproof and windproof, and strong comfortable footwear (such as snow boots) with non-slip soles is recommended. Gumboots are not appropriate. Where Activity can be Performed Alpine or snow areas determined by age, fitness and experience of group undertaking the activity. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required No. The above procedures must be adhered to. ► First Published September 2001 ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► All members when away from base camp must carry a whistle, water, chocolate/scroggin, other food, clothing, and equipment (such as personal first aid kit, foil emergency blanket) appropriate to conditions that may be encountered. Food and clothing should be waterproofed. ► Igloos and snow caves must not be used. ► In areas without toilets, waste is disposed of as follows. A site should be chosen at least 100m away from campsites or watercourses. A hole should be dug 15cm in the soil’s organic layer, and all faecal waste and paper buried. Sanitary pads and tampons should be carried out of the area when leaving. Standard of Equipment Equipment shall be appropriate to the type of activity, must be in good condition, and be inspected prior to each activity. Ski clothing can be hired in most capital cities including Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, and on the Gold Coast. Skis, boots and other equipment are best hired at the mountain resort or village, so they can be exchanged or serviced if there are any problems or breakages. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 65 SNOW SKIING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio Definition of Activity 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 Travelling downhill or cross-country over snow, using skis and stocks. 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 Description of Activity With alpine skiing, skiers are lifted to the top of the ski slope by a mechanical device. They then ski down the slope to the bottom of the run. With cross-country or Nordic skiing, the skier’s own leg and arm muscles provide the energy for forward motion. The cross-country binding which holds the boot onto the ski consists of a mechanical device that holds the toe of the boot, thus leaving the heel free to lift with each stride. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Some preliminary training is essential to reduce the risk of injury and to make the most of the skiing experience. Preliminary training should build strength and flexibility, especially in the ankles, knees, legs, hips, shoulders, and arm muscles. For Nordic skiing, particular emphasis should be placed on the arms and shoulders. ► The Leader in charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in use and care of equipment, and skiing skills, and map reading for Nordic skiing. They should obtain and refer to the ski safety program (Snowsafe) of the Australian Ski Patrol Association. For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. ► Where skiing is the mode of transport used for an expedition over two or more days, the activity procedures for expeditions must be read in conjunction with this procedure. Specific Rules 1. A ratio of one adult to ten participants is required in ski village areas, and one adult to five participants in non-village areas. 2. A minimum of two adults should be present refer to ratios above. 3. A group must consist of at least four people and a buddy system should be used. Skiing alone is not allowed. 4. Skiers must obey all warning and direction signs, rules and safety recommendations of authoritative bodies, and should take care not to endanger or harm others. They must stay within the boundaries of the ski area while alpine skiing. 5. In case of accident, everyone must render all assistance possible (at least one person to stay with the victim and one person to notify Leader and/ or ski patrol). The accident site should be marked with crossed skis stuck in the ground to form an X as a warning to other skiers. Everyone, whether witness or directly concerned, whether responsible or otherwise, must give details of identity in the event of an accident. 6. When vehicles are used in snow areas, snow chains that fit must be carried. ► Ski lessons or a refresher course are highly recommended. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines), including recognising and treating hypothermia) and emergency procedures. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults Page 66 Adventurous Activities Manual Snow Skiing Procedure Who can Authorise the Activity headwear, and sunscreen is essential. Wet weather gear should be waterproof and windproof. District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities/Outdoor Consultant. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily available. If the activity or part of the program is in an area other than a ski village, an adult should carry a map and compass and know how to use them. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader. Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Age and experience must be considered in light of conditions at the time of activity. Safety Requirements ► The ratified Instructor or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing snow and weather conditions. ► If the activity or part of the program is in an area other than a ski village, the LiC shall ensure that a responsible person who is not skiing and can be contacted is advised of the members of the skiing party, the proposed route, estimated time of departure and arrival, emergency procedures, and alternative routes to be used in case of an emergency. ► The program should be well defined and ensure that members are supervised at all times; establish a definite meeting place and time. Participants should know their Leader’s name, contact name and phone number, the name and number of their bus or car, and what to do if they become separated. They must be aware of any boundaries within which they must stay, their behaviour and commitment to the group. Consider using distinctive armbands, scarves or hats for identification. ► Each Leader should be aware of the total program and of her specific responsibilities. Leaders should know how the emergency services operate and how to get help should the need arise. ► Participants must be adequately clothed for the coldest conditions. Wool or thermal wear has good insulation. Jeans, windcheaters and cotton clothing are to be avoided. Several layers of clothing are better than one thick one. Beanie and gloves (preferably snow gloves) are required. Avoid very loose-legged trousers. Sun protection including ski goggles or sunglasses, ► For activities longer than one day or away from ski villages, all participants must carry a whistle, water, chocolate/scroggin, other food, clothing, and equipment (such as a personal first aid kit, foil emergency blanket, spare tip, repair kit) appropriate to conditions that may be encountered. Each person must have a complete change of clothing (including undies and shoes) in a waterproof bag. ► Be aware of sunburn and dehydration. Always seek shelter from the wind; wet and windy conditions are dangerous. Standard of Equipment Equipment shall be appropriate to the type of activity, must be in good condition, be inspected prior to each activity and fit correctly. Ski clothing can be hired in most capital cities including Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, and on the Gold Coast. Skis, boots and other equipment are best hired at the mountain resort or village, so it can be exchanged or serviced if you have any problems or breakages. Check daily that bindings are working correctly, and have them serviced annually. Equipment should be checked regularly and repaired or replaced, if damaged. The lenses of goggles/sunglasses must be impact resistant and 100% UV protected. Where Activity can be Performed Alpine and snow areas determined by age, fitness and experience of group undertaking the activity, where there is suitable, safe snow and weather conditions are favourable. This includes recognised resorts ratified by Girl Guides Queensland. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, or Ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required ► First Published September 2001 Adventurous Activities Manual Page 67 SNOW TOBOGGANING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity 3. A group must consist of at least four people and a buddy system should be used. 4. Designated toboggan runs must be used. Do not toboggan on downhill ski slopes, cross-country ski trail, car parks, roads, walking tracks, or dangerous sites. 5. Toboggans moulded from plastic must be used. Plastic sheeting, tyre tubes, wooden or metal sleds are not allowed. 6. Toboggans must not be ridden standing up. Only one participant may ride a toboggan at a time. 7. When vehicles are used in snow areas, snow chains that fit must be carried. Travelling downhill over snow, using a moulded plastic toboggan. Pre-Activity Training And Requirements ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in use and care of equipment, and tobogganing skills. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for Camp First Aid in Guide Lines). ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. 2. A ratio of one qualified adult to ten participants is required. A minimum of two adults should be present. Page 68 Adventurous Activities Manual Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Activity Leader. Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Age and experience should be considered in light of conditions at the time of the activity. Safety Requirements ► The ratified Instructor or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing snow and weather conditions. ► The program should be well defined and ensure that members are supervised at all times; establish a definite meeting place and time. Participants should know their Leader’s name, contact name and phone number, the name and number of their bus or car, and what to do if they become separated. They must be aware of any boundaries within which they must stay, their behaviour and commitment to the group. Consider using distinctive armbands, scarves or hats for identification. ► Each Leader should be aware of the total program and of her specific responsibilities. Leaders should know Snow Tobogganing Procedure how the emergency services operate and how to get help should the need arise. ► First Published September 2001 ► Participants must be adequately clothed for the coldest conditions. Wool or thermal wear has good insulation. Jeans, windcheaters and cotton clothing are to be avoided. Several layers of clothing are better than one thick one. Beanie and gloves (preferably snow gloves) are required. Sun protection including ski goggles or sunglasses, headwear, and sunscreen is essential. Strong comfortable footwear (such as snow boots) with non-slip soles is recommended. Gumboots are not appropriate. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► The toboggan must have a rope handle or other handgrips, and runners moulded into the base. ► The toboggan path should be clear of other users. ► Riders need to look out for rocks, trees, poles, and other obstructions, patchy or uneven snow cover, icy snow conditions. ► Riders should stay in control of the toboggan and be prepared to roll off if losing control. ► Participants must stay within the designated boundaries and should walk back up to the top of the run at the side of the slope. Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition, and be inspected prior to each activity. The toboggan must be light, stable, and strong with no sharp edges. It must be capable of being ridden in a kneeling position. Where Activity can be Performed On designated toboggan areas at recognised resorts ratified by Guides Queensland, or in areas safe for tobogganing as determined by LiC. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required No. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 69 TRAILBIKE RIDING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. ► Where trail bike riding is the mode of transport used for an expedition over two or more days, the activity procedures for expeditions must be read in conjunction with this procedure. Specific Rules Off road driving using a trail bike. Must be non competitive and in a controlled environment. Description of Activity Rough terrain riding on a motorbike designed for crosscountry conditions. A trail bike is built with a high engine and exhaust system and is often of especially light construction. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements 1. A ratio of one adult to ten participants is required. 2. A minimum of two adults should be present. 3. The rider must not ride beyond their capabilities. 4. The vehicle must be registered, unless used on private property. 5. Any rules/codes of conduct, which pertain to the area, are to be followed. Who can Authorise the Activity ► The Leader in charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and riding skills. Who can Control the Activity ► If required, permission for land access/use to be obtained in writing from the appropriate authority, such as State Forestry, private land owners. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines). ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs Page 70 Adventurous Activities Manual Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader. Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Age and experience must be considered in light of conditions at the time of the activity. Safety Requirements ► The ratified Instructor or LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► Helmet (bearing the stamp of Standards Australia), goggles, gloves, boots, and protective clothing must be worn. Sunscreen is recommended. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. TRAILBK01 Trailbike Riding Procedure Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. Helmets must conform to Australian standards. Where Activity can be Performed Junior trail bike riding clubs, and State Forests where trail bike riding is permitted. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, or ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required. ► First Published September 2001 Adventurous Activities Manual Page 71 WATER SKIING AND TOBOGGANING PROCEDURE ► IMPORTANT NOTE This activity procedure is not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Being towed by a powered boat/craft using either single or double skis, a board, tube or ski biscuit. Description of Activity Activity may take place on a body of water such as a dam, lake, river, or ocean, and includes sea biscuiting and knee boarding. Additional information can be obtained from the Queensland Water Ski Association. Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. A minimum of three adults should be present – boat driver, observer, shore support person. The boat driver and observer (also on the boat) must have a knowledge of the signals used when water skiing. The observer monitors the skier and communicates with the boat driver. The shore support person is an adult who must be prepared to effect a rescue and/or raise the alarm at any time. They must be advised of the members of the skiing party and of emergency procedures. 2. For beginners, boat speed should not exceed 40km/hr when tobogganing; boat speed should not exceed 50km/hr for any rider. 3. All boats should tow no more than one skier at any time. No more than three participants may ride a toboggan at a time, or two participants on a ski biscuit. 4. Commercial operators must hold public liability insurance; privately owned boats must have third party insurance (to cover water skiing). 5. Any rules/codes of conduct that pertain to the area are to be followed. 6. The current requirements of the Department of Transport relating to water skiing and tobogganing must be observed. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts, sneakers, and a personal flotation device (PFD), or hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Swim and Survive Award level 3 or higher. ► The Leader in charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity ( NB: wet suit pants are to be worn). ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and skiing skills (including appropriate signals). Preliminary training should be on Grade 1 water. ► Boat drivers must hold an appropriate powerboat licence, comply with any relevant legislation or regulations eg Harbours and Marine, Local Authority, Dept of Transport, and have experience in towing skiers/ riders. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines) and have current qualifications in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Page 72 Adventurous Activities Manual Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Who can Authorise the Activity District Leader, in consultation with Region Water Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity Ratified Instructor or Activity Leader. Water Skiing and Tobogganing Procedure Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Safety Requirements ► Skiing/tobogganing must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags, currents, floating debris, and swimmers. ► The ratified Instructor or LiC must have a knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The grading of the water depends on the conditions in the area on the day of the activity. The LiC, in consultation with the ratified Instructor, must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► Protection from sun and cold is recommended. Marine stinger protection should be used in marine stinger areas. ► A properly fitted and secured PFD, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, appropriate to the activity, and wetsuit pants must be worn at all times when taking part. Full wetsuits may be necessary. ► Drinking water, rescue and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► The ski venue must be suited to the participants’ ability level. ► Planning should include provision for easy retrieval of participants from the water into the boat. ► Skiers are not to be dropped off in shallow water. ► The start and 'drop off' areas should be clear of swimmers. Where Activity can be Performed On Grade 1 or 2 water as per Guide Lines, which is designated as a water skiing area. Grade 1 water: Small enclosed areas of water, water within hailing distance of the shore, slow moving water than can be handled by every participant. This would include very small dams, small rapids that all participants can handle and sheltered edges of large dams. Grade 2 water: Faster moving water, small rapids, small harbours and strong tidal water. This includes large dams, lakes or river estuaries affected by current, tide or wind, or areas of heavy boat traffic such as the lower reaches of the Brisbane River. It also includes heavy white water when the track through is safe. Not on Grade 3 water or above. Grade 3 water: Rapids which have many obstacles, water confused; areas of rivers where traffic is very heavy; open lakes and dams where distance and wind cause additional hazards; turbulent surf – a high level of expertise and training is required. Activity Consent Form Required Yes. Ratified Instructor Required Yes, or ratified Activity Leader where no instruction is required. ► First Published September 2001 ► If more than one boat is used, each boat must be allocated a specific area in which to operate. ► At least two sets of skis should be available. ► Cornering on a toboggan/biscuit must be done with care to prevent ‘whipping’. Standard of Equipment Craft must be in a seaworthy condition. All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. PFDs must conform to Australian standards. Ropes and handles must float. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 73 Page 74 Adventurous Activities Manual NOT SO ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITY GUIDELINES ► These activity guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland Adventurous Activities Manual Page 75 CORACLES, HOMEMADE RAFTS, RUBBER RAFTS OR DINGHIES AND OTHER INFLATABLE TOYS GUIDELINES For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. ► IMPORTANT NOTE ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures. These activity guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Specific Rules 1. Definition of Activity Recreational activity involving floating on a homemade or inflatable device on water. A lifesaver with appropriate qualifications must be present extra to the above ratios. A lifesaver must be a responsible person, over the age of sixteen years and hold the required qualification as follows. The use of coracles and homemade rafts, rubber rafts or dinghies, other inflatable toys on a body of Grade 1 water such as a swimming pool, dam, lake, creek, river, or ocean within reach of shore rescue. • Swimming pools: Public, Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Bronze Medallion or higher award (the official lifesaver at the pool is acceptable); private, RLSSA Dry Rescue or higher award AND either RLSSA Resuscitation Award OR know how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) under qualified supervision on a manikin and show practical proficiency. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements • Still water or not fast-flowing: If over shoulder deep, RLSSA Bronze Medallion; if less than shoulder deep, RLSSA Resuscitation Award or equivalent. Description of Activity ► The guidelines for these activities are based on the guidelines for swimming BUT the use of flotation devices in open water should be approached with extreme caution. If the activity can be equated with swimming and will occur within easy reach of shore, use these guidelines BUT if the activity is likely to take participants out of easy reach, then use the canoeing or rafting procedures. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 Page 76 Adventurous Activities Manual • Sea, rivers and other open water: RLSSA Patrol Lifeguard OR Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) Bronze Medallion or higher award. 2. The lifesaver must not participate in the activity while on duty (unless supervising on the water). 3. A buddy system should be used, that is pairing each participant with another of similar ability. 4. A responsible person who is not the lifesaver may be required for shore supervision of participants. Who Can Authorise The Activity Leader in Charge (LiC). Who Can Control The Activity The LiC or a responsible person appointed by her (if the LiC is acting as lifesaver). Who Can Participate All youth and adult members. Corales, home made rafts, rubber rafts or dinghies and other inflatable toys Guidelines Safety Requirements ► Rafting must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris. ► The LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and water and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The rafting area is clearly defined. ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing water and weather conditions. ► Protection from sun and cold is recommended. Marine stinger protection should be used in marine stinger areas. ► Non-contact rescue aids, such as flotation aids, poles or ropes, first aid equipment, and drinking water must be readily accessible. Not on Grade 2 water or above. Grade 2 water: Faster moving water, small rapids, small harbours and strong tidal water. This includes large dams, lakes or river estuaries affected by current, tide or wind, or areas of heavy boat traffic such as the lower reaches of the Brisbane River. It also includes heavy white water when the track through is safe. Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required No. The above procedures must be adhered to. ► First Published September 2001 ► In water above shoulder depth and/or in open water it is recommended that a personal flotation device (PFD), bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, be worn by participants. ► If water is of variable depth, the higher qualification as per Guide Lines is required for the lifesaver, ie if water is over shoulder height, CPR is not sufficient. ‘Shoulder height’ means the shoulder height of the shortest person involved in the activity. ► The location of, and a procedure for contacting, the relevant emergency services must be known. Standard Of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition, and be inspected prior to each activity. If worn, PFDs must conform to Australian standards. Where Activity Can Be Performed Public and private swimming pool, and on Grade 1 water as per Guide Lines. Grade 1 water: Small enclosed areas of water, water within hailing distance of the shore, slow-moving water than can be handled by every participant. This would include very small dams, small rapids that all participants can handle and sheltered edges of large dams. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 77 LOW ROPES COURSES GUIDELINES ► IMPORTANT NOTE These activity guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Traversing or negotiating elements in a low ropes course that do not require a belay system for safety. Description of Activity A ropes course is a series of individual and group physical challenges that require a combination of teamwork skills and individual commitment. Made up of rope, cables and wood, courses are constructed outdoors in trees (or using telephone poles), and indoors in gymnasiums. Participants are usually no more than one metre off the ground and therefore do not need to wear specialised safety equipment to ensure protection but rely on ‘spotters’ as their primary safety system. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants should be taken through a series of warm-up and lead-up activities prior to using the ropes course, including spotting techniques. ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures, and if necessary, in the use and care of equipment, and spotting technique with hands on familiarisation with the equipment. ► The course must be suitable for the participants and the program. This should be an integrated sequential challenge program rather than individual elements of a ropes course. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Specific Rules 1. At least one person present (aged 15 years of over) must have experience in the use of low ropes courses and appropriate safety procedures such as spotting and is to be responsible for no more than twelve participants. If aged between 15 and 18, they must have attended a Guide training or similar course approved by the Adventurous Activities Resource Committee (AARC). A ratio of one adult to ten participants is required. 2. A minimum of two adults should be present. 3. A participant is not allowed on an element without spotters. Correct spotting procedure must be used. 4. These Guidelines are minimum requirements and where the specific rules pertaining to a particular low ropes course exceed these Guidelines, these further specific rules will also apply. Who Can Authorise the Activity Leader in Charge (LiC). Who Can Control the Activity The LiC, or a responsible person appointed by her. Who Can Participate All youth and adult members. Safety Requirements ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. Page 78 Adventurous Activities Manual Low Ropes Courses Guidelines ► The minimum dress requirements are T-shirt and long-legged cotton or denim shorts, sturdy lace-up shoes with good grip. Loose apparel must be secured or removed. Loose hair must be tied back. All jewellery must be removed, where possible. ► First Published September 2001 ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► Wire is the preferred construction material for permanent courses. Where rope is used, the correct type of appropriate thickness must be used ► The element and support tree/pole must be in good condition. ► The ground under the ropes course must be cleared of all hazards such as tree stumps, rocks, fallen branches, glass, and exposed roots. ► All cables/ropes and hardware are to be properly set up. ► Proper spotting calls are to be used to maintain good, clear communication with the participant at all times. Standard Of Equipment All equipment must conform to Australian standards. Equipment used during Guides Queensland sponsored activities (including privately owned equipment) shall be inspected for wear and damage prior to each activity. Permanent ropes courses shall be completely overhauled at least once in every twelve months by a suitably qualified person approved by AARC. All equipment shall be regularly maintained and damaged items replaced. Where Activity can be Performed At any low ropes course which has been regularly inspected and appropriately maintained. Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required No, but a person aged 15 or over with experience in the use of low ropes courses and appropriate safety procedures such as spotting must be present. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 79 PEDAL BOATS AND SEA BIKES GUIDELINES or higher award (the official lifesaver at the pool is acceptable); private, RLSSA Dry Rescue or higher award AND either RLSSA Resuscitation Award OR know how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) under qualified supervision on a manikin and show practical proficiency. ► IMPORTANT NOTE These activity guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity • Still water or not fast-flowing: If over shoulder deep, RLSSA Bronze Medallion; if less than shoulder deep, RLSSA Resuscitation Award or equivalent. Recreational activity involving pedaling a water vehicle. Description of Activity The use of pedal boats or sea bikes which takes place on or in a body of still or slow-moving water such as a swimming pool, or dam, lake, creek, river or ocean within reach of shore rescue. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures, and if necessary, in the use and care of equipment. Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2. 3. The lifesaver must not participate in the activity while on duty (unless supervising on the water). 4. A buddy system should be used, that is pairing each participant with another of similar ability. 5. A responsible person who is not the lifesaver may be required for shore supervision of participants. Who can Authorise the Activity Leader in Charge (LiC). Specific Rules 1. • Sea, rivers and other open water: RLSSA Patrol Lifeguard OR Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) Bronze Medallion or higher award. 2 Who can Control the Activity The LiC, or a responsible person appointed by her (if the LiC is acting as the lifesaver). Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Safety Requirements ► Pedal boating etc must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris. For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. ► The LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and weather conditions in the area of the activity. A lifesaver with appropriate qualifications must be present. A lifesaver must be a responsible person, over the age of sixteen years and hold the required qualification as follows. ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. • Swimming pools: Public, Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Bronze Medallion Page 80 Adventurous Activities Manual ► The boating area is clearly defined. ► Protection from sun and cold is recommended. Pedal boats and sea bikes Guidelines ► Non-contact rescue aids such as flotation aids, poles or ropes, first aid equipment, and drinking water must be readily accessible. ► First Published September 2001 ► In water above shoulder depth and/or in open water it is recommended that a personal flotation device (PFD), bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, be worn by all participants. ► If water is of variable depth, the higher qualification as per Guide Lines 6.4.1. page 6-4 is required for the lifesaver, ie if water is over shoulder height, CPR is not sufficient. ‘Shoulder height’ means the shoulder height of the shortest person involved in the activity. ► The location of, and a procedure for contacting, the relevant emergency services must be known. Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. If worn, PFDs must conform to Australian standards. Where Activity can be Performed Public and private swimming pools, and on Grade 1 water as per Guide Lines 2. Grade 1 water: Small enclosed areas of water, water within hailing distance of the shore, slow-moving water than can be handled by every participant. This would include very small dams, small rapids that all participants can handle and sheltered edges of large dams. Not on Grade 2 water or above. Grade 2 water: Faster moving water, small rapids, small harbours and strong tidal water. This includes large dams, lakes or river estuaries affected by current, tide or wind, or areas of heavy boat traffic such as the lower reaches of the Brisbane River. It also includes heavy white water when the track through is safe. Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required No. The above procedures must be adhered to. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 81 ROLLERBLADING/INLINE SKATING GUIDELINES For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. ► IMPORTANT NOTE These activity guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity Use of rollerblades on recognised areas where there is no interference to pedestrians or cyclists; this includes roller-skating rinks. Description of Activity Rollerblades (skates) are like ice-skates, having wheels instead of blades. Rollerskates are less manoeuvrable. 2. Rollerbladers need to have rules established and procedures defined that ensure safety. All skating rinks have such defined procedures. 3. In outdoor areas, define an area for beginners. 4. Prohibit behaviour that causes interference to other rollerbladers or that could cause falls. 5. There should be no obstacles, pedestrians, cyclists or traffic where rollerblading takes place. Who can Authorise the Activity Leader in Charge. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements Who can Control the Activity ► Participants need to be reasonably fit as the sport is quite demanding. There should be warm-up activities. An Instructor with expertise and knowledge of rollerblading or person in charge of the activity. ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. Who can Participate ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment and skating skills. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guidelines). All youth and adult members. Safety Requirements ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► At a recognised indoor roller skating rink: Specific Rules 1. Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides Page 82 Adventurous Activities Manual 2 • The rink’s safety rules and other regulations must be obeyed; • Correctly fitting boots are essential. ► At all other locations: • Correctly fitting boots are essential. • All participants must wear safety helmets (bearing the stamp of Standards Australia), knee and elbow protection, and wrist guards. ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► If outdoors, sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. Rolleblading/Inline Skaing Guidelines Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition, be inspected before each activity, and fit correctly. Helmets must conform to Australian standards. Where Activity can be Performed A large smooth surface of wood, bitumen or concrete without obstacles, or a recognised rollerblading area. The area must be traffic-free. An indoor skating rink may be used. Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required No. The above procedures must be adhered to. ► First Published September 2001 Adventurous Activities Manual Page 83 SNORKELLING (WATER LESS THAN SHOULDER DEEP) GUIDELINES ► IMPORTANT NOTE These activity guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. 2. Using surface breathing apparatus and swimming aids, a person may either swim face downwards on the surface of the water (snorkel swimming) or dive below to view the seabed, fish, coral etc (snorkel diving). The breathing apparatus consists of a snorkel tube, one end of which is put in the mouth while the other projects above the surface. The activity is conducted in water less than shoulder deep. ► Where a power craft is required to accompany participants, the boat driver must hold an appropriate powerboat licence and comply with any relevant legislation or regulations eg Harbours and Marine, Local Authority, Dept of Transport. Specific Rules 1. Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Page 84 Adventurous Activities Manual 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 2 A lifesaver with appropriate qualifications or a qualified Dive Instructor must be present. A lifesaver must be a responsible person, over the age of sixteen years and hold the required qualification as follows. • Swimming pools Public: Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Bronze Medallion or higher award (the official lifesaver at the pool is acceptable) Private: RLSSA Dry Rescue or higher award and either RLSSA Resuscitation Award or know how to perform cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) under qualified supervision on a manikin and show practical proficiency. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment and snorkelling skills. Basic instruction in the use of a snorkel tube is essential. Shallow breathing that does not clear stale air from the snorkel tube, can cause blackouts. 5-7 years old For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. The use of a dive mask and snorkel that allow a swimmer to breath while their head is underwater. ► Participants need to be able to swim 50 metres and stay afloat for three minutes wearing shirt, shorts and sneakers, or hold the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Swim and Survive level 3 or higher. Ratio 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides Definition of Activity Description of Activity Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides • Still water or not fast flowing: Less than shoulder deep, RLSSA Resuscitation Award or equivalent. 3. The lifesaver/Dive Instructor must not participate in the activity while on duty (unless supervising in the water). 4. Appropriate safety rules should be established and adhered to. 5. Strategies for safe participation in snorkelling should be implemented. 6. Safety checks, (e.g. buddy system and roll checks) should be established as part of the session. 7. Participants should be instructed in hygienic practices when sharing equipment. 8. Snorkelling should not be undertaken with blocked ears or nose. 9. Hand spears/guns must not be used while snorkelling. 10. Any rules / codes of conduct that pertain to the area are to be followed. Snorkelling (Water less than shoulder deep) Guidelines 11. Commercial operators must hold public liability insurance; privately owned powerboats must have third party insurance. 12. A responsible person who is not the lifesaver / Dive Instructor may be required for shore supervision of participants. Who can Authorise the Activity ► Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. Marine stinger protection should be used in marine stinger areas. Wetsuits should be worn in cold conditions. ► Non-contact rescue aids such as flotation aids, poles or ropes, first aid equipment and drinking water must be readily accessible, and a powered rescue craft may be required to effect a rescue (must carry a tow rope). Leader in Charge (LiC). ► The location of, and procedure for contacting the relevant emergency services must be known. Who can Control the Activity Standard of Equipment LiC or a responsible person appointed by her (if the LiC is acting as the lifesaver) All equipment must be in good condition, be inspected prior to each activity, fit correctly and should be appropriate for the activity. Craft must be in a seaworthy condition. Who can Participate All youth and adult members. • Equipment should be checked carefully before use and should conform with Australian Standards specifications. Safety Requirements • Young participants should use small-bore diameter snorkels. ► Snorkelling must be in a safe environment. Water should be clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris. ► The LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain and water and weather conditions in the area of the activity. ► The snorkelling area is clearly defined. ► Snorkelling location must be appropriate to the phase of the program and/or the ability level of the participants – depth of water, tidal flow, currents, visibility, water temperature, underwater vegetation, marine life and protection from watercraft must be considered. The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► For open water snorkelling situations, at least one adult must be on the surface/shore. The surface support person must be capable and prepared to effect a rescue and /or raise the alarm at any time. They must be advised of the members of the snorkelling party, the proposed snorkelling location, estimated time of departure and arrival, and emergency procedures. ► If the water is of variable depth, the higher qualification as per Guide Lines is required for the lifesaver. ‘Shoulder height’ means the shoulder height of the shortest person involved in the activity. • Face masks should have nose pockets and tempered glass. • Participants should use their own masks, fins and snorkels for safety, hygiene and comfort. • Equipment should not be stored with poolmaintenance materials. Where Activity can be Performed Public and private swimming pools, still or not fast flowing clear water. Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required No. However documented experience in snorkelling and a current lifesaving qualification appropriate to the venue is required. The above procedures must be adhered to. ► First Published September 2001 Adventurous Activities Manual Page 85 SKATEBOARDING GUIDELINES ► IMPORTANT NOTE These activity guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Specific Rules 1. Skateboarders need to have rules established and procedures defined that ensure safety. 2. Define an area for beginners. Definition of Activity 3. Prohibit behaviour that causes interference to other riders or causes falls. Riding of skateboards on recognised areas, or participating in trick or skilled riding activities. 4. There should be no obstacles or traffic where skateboarding takes place. Description of Activity Skateboarding should be conducted on large smooth surfaces or in a skateboard bowl that has been properly constructed. Who can Authorise the Activity Leader in Charge. Who can Control the Activity Pre-Activity Training and Requirements An Instructor with knowledge and expertise in skateboarding or person in charge of the activity. ► Participants need to have warm-up activities and activities should be sequential to allow for skill development. ► The Leader in Charge (LiC) must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Safety Requirements ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and, if necessary, in the use and care of equipment and skateboarding skills. ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► One adult present must have knowledge of and ability to perform first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines). ► Safety helmets, bearing the stamp of Standards Australia, must be worn. Soft-soled footwear is a safety requirement. ► Supervision requirements as per Guide Llines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. ► Participants should wear knee and elbow protection. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Page 86 Adventurous Activities Manual ► Drinking water and first aid equipment must be readily accessible. ► Beginners and those learning difficult tricks should wear wrist guards, gloves and padding. ► If outdoors, sunscreen and/or suitable sun protection is recommended. Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition, and be inspected prior to each activity. Helmets must conform to Australian standards. Skateboarding Guidelines Where Activity can be Performed A large smooth surface of wood, bitumen or concrete without obstacles, or a recognised skateboarding bowl. Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required No. The above procedures must be adhered to ► First Published September 2001 Adventurous Activities Manual Page 87 SWIMMING GUIDELINES Private: RLSSA Dry Rescue or higher award AND either RLSSA Resuscitation Award OR know how to perform cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) under qualified supervision on a manikin and show practical proficiency. ► IMPORTANT NOTE These activity guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. • Still water or not fast-flowing: If over shoulder deep, RLSSA Bronze Medallion; if less than shoulder deep, RLSSA Resuscitation Award or equivalent. Definition of Activity Moving along or in water propelled by arms and/or legs. • Sea, rivers and other open water: RLSSA Patrol Lifeguard OR Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) Bronze Medallion or higher award. Description of Activity • Surfing Beaches: RLSSA Patrol Lifeguard OR SLSA lifesaver on duty. Activity may take place in a body of water such as a swimming pool, dam, lake, river or ocean. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures, particularly the dangers of diving into shallow water. Specific Rules 1. Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. 2. 3. The lifesaver must not participate in the activity while on duty (unless supervising on the water). 4. A buddy system should be used, that is pairing each participant with another of similar ability. 5. Any rules/codes of conduct are to be followed which pertain to the area. 6. A responsible person who is not the lifesaver may be required for shore supervision of participants. Who can Authorise the Activity Leader in Charge (LiC). Who can Control the Activity The LiC, or a responsible person appointed by her (if the LiC is acting as the lifesaver). Who can Participate All youth and adult members. Safety Requirements ► Swimming must be in a safe environment. Water is clean and free of hazards such as snags and floating debris. A lifesaver with appropriate qualifications must be present. A lifesaver must be a responsible person, over the age of sixteen years and hold the required qualification as follows: ► Where appropriate, the LiC must have knowledge of the locality, facilities, terrain, and water and weather conditions in the area of the activity. • Swimming pools ► The swimming area is clearly defined. Public: Royal Life Saving Society of Australia (RLSSA) Bronze Medallion or higher award (the official lifesaver at the pool is acceptable) Page 88 Adventurous Activities Manual ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. Swimming Guidelines ► Sunscreen and/or other suitable sun protection is recommended. Marine stinger protection should be used in marine stinger areas. Wetsuits should be worn in cold conditions. Activity Consent Form Required ► Non-contact rescue aids such as flotation aids, poles or ropes, first aid equipment, and drinking water must be readily accessible. Ratified Instructor Required Yes No. The above procedures must be adhered to. ► Swimming is not permitted on unpatrolled surfing beaches. ► Swimming is only permitted when the depth of water is appropriate, considering the swimming ability of the participants. ► First Published November 2002 ► If water is of variable depth, the higher qualification as per Guide Lines 6.4.1. page 6-4 is required for the lifesaver, ie if water is over shoulder height, CPR is not sufficient. ‘Shoulder height’ means the shoulder height of the shortest person involved in the activity. ► The location of, and a procedure for contacting, the relevant emergency services must be known. Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition, and be inspected prior to each activity. If flotation aids (not personal flotation devices) are used, they must be selected to suit the individual and fitted correctly. Where Activity can be Performed Public and private swimming pools, and in Grade 1 water as per Guide Lines. Grade 1 water: Small enclosed areas of water, water within hailing distance of the shore, slow-moving water than can be handled by every participant. This would include very small dams, small rapids that all participants can handle and sheltered edges of large dams. Not on Grade 2 water or above. Grade 2 water: Faster moving water, small rapids, small harbours and strong tidal water. includes large dams, lakes or river estuaries affected by current, tide or wind, or areas of heavy boat traffic such as the lower reaches of the Brisbane River. It also includes heavy white water when the track through is safe. Adventurous Activities Manual Page 89 TARGET ARCHERY GUIDELINES ► IMPORTANT NOTE These activity guidelines are not intended for the purpose of instruction, they are intended for information purposes to indicate the minimum standard required by Girl Guides Queensland. Definition of Activity The practice or art of shooting at stable targets with bow and arrow. It does not cover shooting at moving targets. Targets are made of substantial material for the safe penetration and removal of the arrows. The targets are set up either in a straight line or, if different distances are required, staggered so that all participants shoot from the same line. Pre-Activity Training and Requirements ► Participants are to be briefed in safety and emergency procedures and in the use and care of the equipment. Hands-on familiarisation with the equipment should be given. Specific Rules Supervision requirements as per Guide Lines Adult ratio varies according to the ages of the girls. The table below indicates the number of adults required. Activity instructors cannot be counted as supervising adults for a group. Minimum number of adults Age range of Guides Ratio 5-7 years old 1 adult:6 Guides 3 8-10 years old 1 adult:8 Guides 2 2 For activities with girls of a range of ages the ratios should be adjusted according to the above. The needs of the youngest girls should be given the highest consideration. Page 90 Adventurous Activities Manual 3. First aid equipment and drinking water should be readily available. 4. One person present must have knowledge of, and ability to perform, first aid procedures (refer to clauses for First Aid in Guide Lines). District Leader, in consultation with Region Adventurous Activities Consultant. Who can Control the Activity An adult who has Level O or higher qualifications from the Archery Association of Australia or equivalent qualifications. Who can Participate ► The Leader in Charge must ensure that all participants are informed of appropriate clothing prior to the activity. 11 years and older 1 adult:10 Guides Area to be used must be clearly marked and defined either using witches hats or roping the area to limit access by non-participants. Who can Authorise the Activity Description of Activity 1. 2. All youth and adult members depending on suitable equipment being available. Safety Requirements ► The Weapons Act classifies archery equipment as a firearm if used as a weapon. However for target shooting as defined by these procedures archery equipment is not a weapon under the meaning of the Weapons Act, but strict adherence to recognised safety procedures is essential. ► The LiC must be prepared to alter the activity according to the forecast and prevailing weather conditions. ► All loose apparel must be secured or removed. Enclosed footwear must be worn. All jewellery must be removed, where possible, otherwise taped so that it cannot get caught in any equipment. Loose hair must be tied back so that it cannot impair vision or become entangled in the equipment. ► Participants must wear a finger tab or shooting glove and arm guard. It is recommended that the arm guard extend above the elbow. ► When archery is undertaken as a demonstration activity only; that is, when participants are getting a limited number of arrows to shoot (6 arrows or less); participants need not wear a finger tab or shooting Target Archery Guidelines glove and arm guard. In such cases supervision must be increased to a maximum of two participants per instructor. The instructor is to stand right behind the archers so she/he can reach out and prevent any safety issues. The instructors are to retrieve all arrows and measures must be taken to exclude all others from the shooting line and around the sides and behind the targets. ► The site should be free of traffic flow and pedestrians as well as obstructions, such as trees, fences or shrubs. ► A clear area of at least 20 metres should be established behind the targets and at least 5 metres from the sides of the targets and behind the shooting line. ► Targets should be easily visible and definite parallel flight paths should be established for each target. ► A single shooting line facing the targets and long enough to accommodate participants comfortably should be set up. ► No person is to enter the shooting area without the instructor’s permission. Onlookers must stand behind the archers and outside the barriers at all times. ► Participants are to be assigned to one specific target with a maximum of four archers per target. Participants must fire only at the targets and nowhere else. ► All arrows are to be the same for one shooter and are matched to the shooters draw length. ► Bows should be positioned vertically with the tip resting on the front foot between shots. ► Participants should be supplied with individual quivers where possible. ► A system of commands are to be established to signal participants when to: shooting at the targets are to have bows or arrows in their possession. ► Participants are to be instructed to place bows on rack or on the ground next to the shooting line when finished. ► No person is to go forward of the shooting line under any circumstances until all bows and arrows have been placed on the rack or on the ground next to the shooting line and the command ‘retrieve arrows’ is given. ► All arrows that fall from the shooters bow in front of the shooting line are to be left on the ground until a ‘cease shooting’ signal is given. ► All arrows are to be retrieved at the same time. ► One person is to be designated to withdraw arrows from each target. ► A signalling system is to be established so that participants facing the target on the shooting line can attract the attention of the Leader in Charge or Instructor (eg holding the bow in a vertical position above the head). Standard of Equipment All equipment must be in good condition and be inspected prior to each activity. Bows with cracks and stress marks must not be used. Strings showing signs of abrasion and wear must be replaced. Arrows that have faulty flights or nocks must not be used. All bows must be strung to their recommended string lengths. Where Activity can be Performed On any target archery range or in an open area that conforms as per Safety Requirements clause 5. • Commence shooting • Cease shooting • Retrieve arrows ► All shooters should be positioned astride the shooting line before being given the starting signal. Arrows are not to be taken from the quivers until the signal is given. ► When participants are loading bows, they must face towards the targets and only point the arrowheads in that direction. ► Bows and arrows are not to be left on the shooting line unattended. No persons other than the participants Activity Consent Form Required Yes Ratified Instructor Required No. The above procedures must be adhered to. Instructor must hold Level O. ► First Published September 200 Adventurous Activities Manual Page 91 GLOSSARY OF TERMS AARC..................Adventurous Activities Resource Committee CPR ....................Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation DL .......................District Leader ERP ....................Girl Guides Association of Australia Emergency Response Plan LiC ......................Leader in Charge PFD ....................Personal flotation device Guide Lines ........Policy, Organisation and Rules of the Guides Australia Incorporated QOA....................Queensland Orienteering Association RAAC..................Region Adventurous Activities Consultant RCC ....................Region Camping Consultant RLSSA ................Royal Life Saving Society of Australia RWAC .................Region Water Activities Consultant SLSA...................Surf Life Saving Australia Ltd SO23 .................. Incident/Injury or Illness Record form UV.......................Ultraviolet WAC ...................Water Activities Committee Forms ADM.27...............Adventurous Activity Waiver/Indemnity form for – youth and invitee ADM.28...............Adventurous Activity Waiver/Indemnity form for – adult and invitee QF.CA.03 ............Camp Notification/Application. QF.AA.01 ............Adventurous Activity Permission QF.AA.02 ............Ratification Application and Renewal QF.AA.03 ............Adventurous Activities Qualification and Appraisal Page 92 Adventurous Activities Manual BIBLIOGRAPHY Curriculum Activity Risk Assessment Guidelines (2010), Department of Education and Training Girl Guides Association of Australia Emergency Response Plan (1994), Girl Guides Association of Australia Incorporated. Guide Lines - containing the policy, organisation and rules of Guides Australia, 3rd edition (2007), including amendments 2007-2010, Girl Guides Australia Insurance Booklet (2004), Guides Queensland Risk Management - Principles and Guidelines, AS/NZ 31000 Security Risk Management (2009) Safety Guidelines Swimming Based Activities (2001), Department of Education, Employment and Training Victoria Snowsafe - A Guide to Safety in Alpine Areas, 17th Edition (2010), Victorian Ski Association Inc. Weapons Act (1990), Queensland Government Adventurous Activities Manual Page 93
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