Adventures in nature take a little work, but the pre-planning always pays off. To help participants feel more comfortable outside, Power To Be recently partnered with AdventureSmart in Vancouver to deliver an inclusive and adapted lesson on the Three T’s of outdoor preparedness.

Founded 14 years ago, AdventureSmart aims to aid in minimizing the severity and number of incidents called out provincially to search and rescue organizations. They provide presentations to the community regarding outdoor safety and preparedness, which for Power To Be called for a unique approach.

Instead of their classic lecture-style presentation, we partnered with AdventureSmart to adapt their teachings into a more hands-on, sensory-filled experience for participants on the autism spectrum. Offered to a group from Canucks Autism Network, participants were provided with a ‘Passport to Adventure,’ allowing them to travel to various stations that offered a new lesson at every destination.

In building an inclusive presentation, Emma Courtney, AdventureSmart Outreach Educator, voiced the importance of adapting their programming to meet all needs.

“We want to move beyond barriers”, she said. “Anyone could be in need of search and rescue services, so we want to provide training for all members of the community.”

The Three T's

Trip planning

A trip plan explains your destination, route, what equipment you have and when you plan to return. By writing your trip plan as part of your brainstorming, as you decide where you want to explore and what you need to get there. Make sure you leave your plan with someone who can notify the authorities if you don’t return home when you had planned.

Quick tips:

  • Plan your travel route
  • Know the terrain and conditions
  • Check the weather
  • Always fill out a trip plan
Training

Depending on the adventure you have in mind, you might need some training to do the activity safely. Look for courses offered locally or share the adventure with someone who is experienced with the activity.

Take the essentials

Being prepared means having the gear and supplies you need for your activity. Always carry the essentials and know how to use them. You may also need to add other equipment specific to your chosen activity, season and location.

The essentials:

  • Flashlight
  • Fire making kit
  • Signaling device (i.e. whistle)
  • Extra food and water
  • Extra clothing
  • Navigational/communication devices
  • First aid kit
  • Emergency blanket/shelter
  • Pocket knife
  • Sun protection

Big thanks to AdventureSmart, Canucks Autism Network and the dedicated members of the BC Search and Rescue Association for providing an evening of inclusive education.

Top banner image credit: John Rathwell, Searching For Sero