Safety
Safety begins with reverence and right thinking.
Safety acts with wisdom.
Reverence for God’s authority in speaking the enormity of creation into being.
Right thinking, knowing that God is the Creator and we are created, small and dependent.
Reverence for the power in the water, lightning, wind, cold, sun, and waves.
Right thinking, knowing the creation is stronger, more powerful, and bigger than us.
Reverence for Jesus, who came to earth calming the waves and walking on water.
Right thinking, knowing that Jesus is Lord over creation and over us and can calm the storm.
Wet Boot Policy
Hiking boots protect the soles of your feet, your toes, and your ankles. These boots are worn right into the water during travel. Portaging is fun with happy feet!
Communication
We will do technical tasks together: lifting canoes and packs, building fires, and using a stove. Clear, calm communication is key to the safety of the group.
Weather
We travel in just about any weather in the Boundary Waters, except thunder and lightning. Understanding the clouds and preparing for all weather is wise.
Swimming with Sandals
Sturdy sandals will be worn in camp and while swimming. Chacos, Tevas, or Keens with good tread and a strap around the back are required as we swim off rocks instead of sand beaches. The only time you will be barefoot on the trip is in the tent.
Preparedness
The guide will carry a 2-way satellite communication device (Garmin inReach Mini) and a fast pack (first responder medical kit) around their waist. Having those ready doesn’t change living wisely, but gives us a way to respond fast and call for help, if needed.
The utility pack will have a second 2-way SOS beacon (SpotX) which all campers will be trained in. There is also another first aid pack for long-term care of wounds, musculoskeletal injuries, etc.
Your guide is certified and practiced in wilderness rescue with Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications. Willing group members (especially those with medical training) can assist in prayerfully and skillfully handling injury or illness that may arise.
Please share any safety or medical concerns with your guide before the trip.
Life jackets
We will wear life jackets (PFDs) fully-fastened while canoeing and swimming. Cold water, an injury, fatigue, a sudden fall, or cramps can weaken even the strongest swimmer. Lifejackets help keep us safe in deep water, fast water, and rocky water.
Keeping it real…
A struggle: Minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, sprains, sore muscles, or bruises can happen. Bigger risks can be prevented by wearing lifejackets and boots, and by keeping our body weight low on rocks and inclines.
A temptation: We can easily overestimate our ability and underestimate the risk around us. Getting sloppy or careless is also a temptation. As we could be days away from a hospital, we want to be extra vigilant to prevent injury.
A hope: We will learn to handle our bodies with care, not afraid, but with a healthy respect for the power in God’s creation seen in lightning, rocks, waterfalls, water, and fire. Traveling in a safe and wise way brings freedom to the group.