Expedition safety

Unrivalled safety and support network

Whatever plans you put in place it is paramount to have a plan for the unexpected. Outlook has an unrivalled safety and support network to back up its expeditions and since its inception in 2001 it has successfully dealt with a range of incidents from minor illnesses and injuries to helicopter evacuations. Despite the experience we have in house, we think it is vital to have an expert crisis management company – Docleaf – and all of its resources on call in case anything goes seriously wrong overseas. We are the only expedition provider which has this extensive support. Expedition safety is the top priority for Outlook. We operate world-class safety systems and procedures to maintain the highest possible standards at all times.

Prior to departure

In-country reconnaissance and risk assessments are carried out prior to the expedition and Outlook works closely with British Embassies and Consulates, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and our network of in-country contacts to monitor the safety and stability of our itineraries. The expedition teams are given comprehensive safety briefings tailored to each destination both when preparing for the expedition and while in country.

The expedition phase

Expedition Leaders are trained to carry out comprehensive in-country dynamic risk assessments whilst on expedition and have had expedition first aid training. They are equipped with a destination specific incident management plan listing all local medical services. EVERY GROUP carries satellite telephones, global positioning systems and first aid kits designed to cope with environments the group will be travelling through – e.g. high altitude.

During the expedition

The team is supported by a 24-hour operations room with landline, satellite and mobile communication on hand to give advice, monitor the progress of the expedition group, and ensure rapid and appropriate action in the unlikely event of an emergency.

Partnership organisations

Docleaf - Outlook is the only youth expedition provider supported by Docleaf. Outlook operations room staff are fully trained in incident management and are supported by Docleaf, a company dedicated to handling emergency planning and crisis response. Docleaf ensures that even the unforeseen is planned for.

Remote Medical Support

Remote Medical Support works in partnership with Outlook to provide a world-class medical support package to the groups in the field. It specialises in providing medical information to groups in remote locations via the phone and internet. This service means that the Expedition Leader and Link Teacher have direct access via a satellite phone to a doctor whenever it is needed.

Click here for full details of our extensive safety and support structure.