AdventureSmart programs
Hug A Tree
Hug A Tree and Survive is an AdventureSmart program that helps lost children survive in the woods.
This presentation is aimed at children in grades K-5. It teaches children how not to become lost in the woods, and what to do if they should become lost.
Hug-A-Tree and Survive was developed in the United States following the search for Jimmy Beveridge in 1981, and was first adapted for Canadian use by the RCMP. It was updated by the National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS) and the SAR Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC) in 2015 with new videos and activities to support program delivery.
There are four simple rules that are core to Hug a Tree presentations:
- Tell an adult where you are going.
- If you are lost, “Hug a Tree” and stay put.
- Keep warm and dry.
- Help searchers find you by answering their calls
About the video: The video features Johnny who is so excited to explore; he loses his way. Once he realizes he is lost, Johnny uses his head to stay safe and he is well prepared!
Snow Safety
Designed for intermediate-aged school children (grades 4-6), SSEP is an interactive multi-media presentation that teaches the essentials of winter outdoor safety and supports the use of proper equipment, knowledge and training to help reduce risks and prevent accidents.
SSEP presentations cover:
- The Alpine responsibility code
- Ski resort signage
- Backcountry hazards associated with “going out-of-bounds”
- Avalanches and the need to be prepared with additional avalanche education, training and equipment
PaddleSmart
There has been a drastic increase of recreational paddling. We want to increase the knowledge, skills and abilities of those who want to paddle, and make them better paddlers.
Before setting out on your recreational paddling adventure, make sure you follow the 3 T’s; Trip Planning, Training, and Taking the Essentials. Also:
- Know the effects of alcohol and drugs, for your safety and the safety of others, you need to be attentive and responsive
- Know the signs of hypo- and hyperthermia as well as how to treat it
- Know how to get help and survive until rescued if an emergency arises
Learn more about Water Safety
This presentation is designed for youth and adults who want to paddle, whether it is using stand-up paddleboards, kayaks or canoes. Topics include trip planning, training and taking the essentials for water based activities. Segments on moving water and coastal water can be added to the presentation depending on location.
Survive Outside
Statistics show that each year across Canada there are approximately 5000 ground Search & Rescue incidents. They involve all types of outdoor enthusiasts, from hikers and skiers to backcountry travellers and boaters.
AdventureSmart encourages you to have fun and play, but always be informed and prepared before you set out. Time spent gaining this extra knowledge and skills can help reverse the SAR incident trend.
The Survive Outside program offered by AdventureSmart is a great way to learn the value of preparation for safety in outdoor activities. Augment your basic outdoor suvival knowledge by taking the “Survive Outside – A Guide to Outdoor Safety” program offered by AdventureSmart.