Trip Leader Checklists

Before the Trip

Submit Trip Info to the Club Groups.io Forum Board (include date, activity type, route, expected duration, difficulty, meeting location, and required gear)

Pre-screen the Route for current conditions (e.g. tides, snow, closures, hazards)

Confirm Club Insurance Coverage (only sanctioned trips are insured)

Confirm Group Size & Participant List (ensure all are current members or signed waivers)

Emergency Plan Prepared, including:

☐ Nearest emergency contact / extraction route

☐ Communication device (radio, cell, InReach)

☐ First Aid Kit on hand (Leader or designated team member)

Know Participants’ Needs: Ask about medical conditions, allergies, or recent injuries

Bring:

☐ Emergency contact sheet or phone

☐ Club radio / InReach if available


🏃 At the Trip Start

Arrive Early and greet participants

Headcount (verbal roll call or checklist)

Gear Check + Readiness

Review the Plan: Route, rest stops, turnaround time, group norms

Safety Talk: Include buddy system, trail etiquette, wildlife protocol, group separation rules


⛰️ During the Trip

Maintain Group Cohesion: Appoint a sweep, monitor pace

Check In Regularly: Hydration, fatigue, injuries

Adapt if Necessary: Be willing to shorten, turn back, or reroute if safety requires

Leave No Trace: Reinforce respectful land and marine use

Track Time + Headcount


After the Trip

Optional: Share Photos / Reflections for club newsletter or social

Final Headcount at End Point

Check Out: Everyone accounted for before leader leaves

Report Any Incidents or Near Misses to club safety officer or board

Submit Trip Report (brief summary + notes for future leaders via the initial groups.io post)