QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE GOING TO THE FIELD
Essential Questions
Here are some questions you should always ask before traveling to the field.
It’s important!
What do we know about the route?
Start by looking over the map with your team. You need to know the exact route, estimated travel time, as well as road and weather conditions. Plan to arrive at least one hour before dark.
What are the risks?
Identify and map the risks along the way, such as high-crime locations, checkpoints, landslide areas, weak bridges and river crossings. Using a map helps the team understand the overall situation. Do you have a plan and the equipment to manage those risks?
What are our contingency plans?
Make a contingency plan for every likely risk you may encounter. Map out important locations along the way, such as hospitals and places to stop overnight in case of delay. What emergency supplies do you need (water, fuel, food)? If you are going to a hot, cold or remote area, these supplies can save your life.
Can we communicate along the entire route?
What communication equipment do you need to ensure you can always communicate with the person monitoring your trip? Will the distance or geography affect communication? For example, many areas will not have cellular coverage, and equipment may not be able to connect in areas that are particularly mountainous (for example), or during poor weather conditions. You need to plan all of this carefully.
Who will monitor our trip?
Who will monitor your trip, and what is your communication plan? When will you communicate: upon your departure, at certain points during your trip, and upon arrival? If you are able to pre-identify areas where you might lose contact, you should agree to check-in before and after you go through those areas.
Are we allowed to go?
Field movement must be authorized in writing by the senior field manager using a form that includes all of the passengers and trip details. Obtain authorization from local authorities as well, when required, and carry a copy of these permissions with you.
Will you be able to help?
Accidents and incidents are fairly common during field missions.
