Makes sure instructors have thorough knowledge of safety practices, equipment use and maintenance, and technique.

Reviews the rules and operating procedures with the girls before each session.

Makes sure the safety rules are written, understood, practiced, and posted at the site.

Secures all equipment in a dry, locked storage area.

Makes sure girls and adults avoid wearing jewelry, especially pierced earrings, looped earrings, bracelets, and necklaces in contact sports or where jewelry may become entangled in equipment.

Makes sure a list of emergency telephone numbers, including those for emergency rescue ser vices and the police, is posted or carried by the adult in charge.

Teaches girls to take shelter away from tall objects in a storm with lightning and thunder. Find the lowest point in an open flat area.. Squat low to the ground on the balls of the feet. Have girls place their hands on their knees with their heads between them. Instruct girls to make themselves the smallest targets possible and to minimize their contact with the ground.

Instruction is given by an adult with experience in teaching and/or supervising snowshoeing.

The snowshoeing group has a minimum of four people, including at least two adults.

One adult leads and another adult brings up the rear of the group.

Girls get in condition by exercising before snowshoeing.

Girls are instructed in basic snow shoeing techniques. Leaders are aware of each girl’s ability. Practice sessions are scheduled for beginners.

Girls are trained in winter survival, such as snow cave building, white- outs, and avalanche avoidance, as needed.

There are adequate rest stops with opportunities to replenish fluids and eat high-energy foods.

Gaiters (for deep, new snow), a hat, a windproof, water-repellent parka, mittens or gloves, and water-repellent boots are worn.

Sunglasses or goggles are worn to protect the eyes from bright glare off the snow.

The equipment is appropriate for the type of terrain, the participant’s body weight, and the weight of any backpack.

Girls use snowshoes and bindings that fit properly.

One or two ski poles may be used for balance. The pole(s) is the proper size for the girl.

Each girl carries a water bottle, high-energy food, sunscreen, and lip balm.

Terrain and potential hazards (e.g., frozen lakes, avalanches), mileage, and approximate snowshoeing time are known to all group members in advance.

When a latrine is not available, human waste is disposed of at least 200 feet away from water sources. Tampons, sanitary supplies, and toilet paper are packed out.

First-aider, level 1, is present. First-aider, level 2, is present if planned route is more than five miles from emergency help.

First-aid procedures are reviewed, including those for frostbite, cold exposure, hypothermia, sprains, fractures, and altitude sickness.

Search-and-rescue procedures are written out in advance.