Expedition Information and Consent to Participate
Outside Perspectives conducts physically demanding courses which MAY include running, playing games, hiking with a backpack, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, backcountry camping, and participating in activities during inclement weather. There are certain inherent risks to be assumed when participating in activities of a physical nature, and the participant may risk personal injury. The participant must be emotionally as well as physically prepared for the rigorous demands of the experience. Outside Perspectives instructors and staff will inform participants of specific safety protocols and will coach participants before each activity. While the course can be challenging, it is expected that any person with typical physical and mental abilities can complete the program successfully.
P4P Expedition participants take part in a backcountry expedition that includes camping, a portage (hiking with heavy equipment around a section of water that is not accessable via a boat) and canoeing long distances. Participants sleep in tents inside sleeping bags (not cabins) for the entire expedition. The expedition occurs in a very remote area and may take place in all types of weather, including wind, rain, cold, heat, snow, and electrical storms. While many precautions are taken to avoid contact with animals, insects and bacteria, environmental hazards include potential exposure to diseases such as tick or mosquito-borne illnesses (ie: Lyme Disease) and Giardia.
Due to the physical nature of the activities and the remote locations, it is very important that participants inform Outside Perspectives of any and all relevant physical and mental health information, including medications and dietary needs, within the required medical forms. Omitting this information may affect participant safety and the safety of others. Outside Perspectives will not exclude a participant from an expedition for a health or medical reason unless participation provides an unmanageable risk or burden to instructors, the individual, or to the group, as determined by Outside Perspectives. Removing barriers to the outdoors is part of the organization’s mission.
Outside Perspectives provides ample and nutritious meals prepared by the expedition participants and staff. All drinking water from natural sources are purified by approved methods such as boiling, filtration, or by chemical (i.e. Chlorine Dioxide) treatment prior to consumption. Personal hygiene and self-care methods are limited in a wilderness setting and include cold water clean-up. Toilet facilities include latrines, outhouses, and cat holes.
Due to the goals and nature of the expedition (and the potential risk of damage to devices) the use of electronics is discouraged on expedition; except to take epic or hilarious photos or videos. Outside Perspectives’ staff will carry cell phones and satellite phones for emergencies or other unforeseen circumstances that require communication.