Lucy's organised the next training weekend - here are the details:
Venue:
The Rivelin Valley, just outside Sheffield.
Timings:
We'll meet at 6pm outside Sheffield Rail Station & hope to return you to the same point at 1pm on Sunday.
Activities:
Friday - a walk around the site.
Saturday - orienteering in the woods followed bysome team activities. In the evening we;ll cook on open fires and chat about environmental awareness & sustainability on expeditions. We'll then do a night walk.
Sunday - more team activities and a discussion about the risk assessment that Paul put onto the message board. Allie will also be sorting out visas, so make sure that you snswer the questions that she emailed and bring passport photos with you.
Equipment:
Bring the same as last time, remember to bring chopsticks & a torch. Food should be based on rice or noodles.
Emily has submitted her research on Kazakhstan. This should be a reminder to you lot that there are still outstanding research articles on:
1. Kyrgyzstan
2. Xinjang
3. Tibet
4. S*****g in the Woods
This is Emily's work:
Kazakhstan
Ask most people today about Kazakhstan and they will tell you it’s the home of Borat. There is, in fact, far more to the country than Borat tells you; it is one of the most interesting countries on earth, an eclectic mix of extreme wealth and grinding poverty, and exotic traditions and a mad dash for modernity.
Kazakhstan is situated in central Asia, northwest of China. As well as China it is bordered by Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. It was the largest of the former Soviet Republics (excluding Russia), yet it only has a population of less than 16 million; it is roughly just less than 4 times the size of Texas and is divided into 3 time zones.
The climate is continental, with increasingly harsh winters and unbearably hot summers in recent years. This change in weather patterns is due to major ecological disasters resulting from the ex-Soviet Government’s desire for productivity at any cost. The government re-routed the rivers that fed into the Aral Sea to irrigate cotton fields in Uzbekistan. The Aral Sea used to be the world’s 4th largest inland body of water and now as a direct result of this has been shrinking ever since. Another result has been increased salt and pollutant content of the air and soil and so epidemics and respiratory diseases are prevalent in the area. There are also high levels of radiation in some regions of Kazakhstan due to soviet abuse of the atomic bomb; in the Semey area over 100 atomic bombs were exploded without the residents ever being informed. Kazakhstan is also naturally prone to earthquakes in the south and mudslides around Almaty.
Native Kazaks are a mix of Turkic and Mongol tribes that migrated to the area in the 13th century; there were many different clans and various rulers in the country. It was only around 1500AD that they were united as a single nation when they split from the Uzbeks.
In 1850 the Russians began building forts across the Kazak Steppe, limiting their nomadic lifestyle. Then in 1863 they officially annexed Kazakhstan. And in 1936 it was made a SovietRepublic. During the Soviets “Virgin Lands” program many farms were created in Kazakhstan and many soviet citizens were encouraged to emigrate to cultivate Kazakhstan’s northern pastures. This, combined with the thousands of Kazaks who had been forced to flee to Mongolia and China in the resistance attempt against the Tsar, meant that non-Kazaks at this time outnumbered the natives.
On 16th December 1991Kazakhstan declared independence. This encouraged many of the foreigners to emigrate back, and today 53% of the population are native Kazaks, with 30% Russian and the remainder of the population made up of people from other ex-soviet republics. The majority of Kazaks are Muslim and their religion and culture are very much tied together. They do not practice strict Orthodox Islam, however, due to the religious oppression of the Soviets. Most Kazaks have never read the Qur’an or been to a mosque, instead they practice folk Islam; a mix of superstition and Muslim practices. They fear the evil eye, which is the constant fear of hurt or destruction caused by other people’s envy. They are wary of “djun” or spirits, which may cause physical or mental illness. They will visit the graves of Muslim Saints to try to gain favour or blessings. They will wear “Tumars” which are charms with scripture from the Qur’an written on to protect them from evil. They will go to fortune-tellers and faith healers to try to divine the future or find a cure for illness and they will worship their ancestors and pray to them for advice.
Since gaining independence, Kazakhstan has also developed an economy larger than the other central Asian states combined. This is mainly due to the fact that they have one of the largest oil and gas reserves in the world. Most of their industry revolves around natural resources, not only oil and gas, but also coal, iron ore, nickel, cobalt, lead, bauxite, uranium and gold. Although Kazakhstan is rich in natural resources, all of their refineries are in neighbouring countries, this was done intentionally by the Soviet Union to make it harder for the republics to separate from the USSR.
Almaty
Population: 1,147,000
Almaty, which means “Father of Apples” in Kazak, was originally founded in 1854 as a Russian fort called Zailiyskoe. A year later, it was renamed Vernoye, which it remained until 1921. Originally, Almaty was a frontier town. When the Turkistan-Siberian railroad was built in the 1920’s, it became a major way-station. In 1929 it was made the capital of the KazakSovietSocialistRepublic and remained the capital until July 1998 when the capital was moved to Astana.
Almaty is situated at the foot of the Tian Shan Mountain range. It is also located along a major fault line which has caused damage due to earthquakes in 1887 and 1911. Due to its location right next to the Tian ShanMountains, it had become known as one of the most beautiful cities of the former Union ofSoviet Socialist Republics.
Today Almaty is known as the commercial capital of Kazakhstan. Since the official move of the capital to Astana, most businesses have remained in Almaty.
In the absence of any other entries in the logo competition launched at the last training weekend, I've put one up for consideration. You need to click on the black & white image shown in the Photos frame on the left of your monitor for a larger version. Remember we said that this would be put on to a red expedition polo-shirt in yellow text possibly along with a yellow name on the back. Comments by email please.
Apologies for neglecting you over the past month, but it's been due to illness, overwork and pure laziness! These three enties contain the China / Tibet 2007 Expedition Risk Assessment. Can you read them carefully, di8scuss them with your parents and suggest any additional items or alterations?
CHINA / TIBET 2007
RISK ASSESSMENT
(August 07)
Activity:Expedition.
Locations: Kazakhstan, Xinjiang, Tibet, Kyrgystan
Date:August 2007
Leader: Paul McGreavy
HAZARD
RISK
RISK LEVEL
CONTROL MEASURES IN PLACE TO REDUCE RISK OF HAZARD
ARRANGEMENTS TO ENSURE THE CONTROL MEASURES CONTINUE TO BE EFFECTIVELY IMPLEMENTED
GENERAL
1.
Country summary
Low – Medium
FCO Advice:
Kazakhstan:
You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
You may travel to most places in Kazakhstan, but travel to any "closed territories" or secure areas require advance permission from the relevant authorities. Some military/restricted areas are not clearly marked so care should be taken when travelling away from normal routes.
You should ensure that your inoculations are up to date.
You should obtain your visa in advance of your visit and ensure it covers the entire duration of your stay.
The main type of incident for which British nationals require consular assistance in Kazakhstan is replacing lost or stolen passports. Local regulations require you to carry some form of photo ID at all times.
We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.
Kyrgyzstan:
There is no British Embassy in Kyrgystan, but there is an Honorary British Consul in Bishkek. Kyrgystan is covered from the British Embassy in Astana, Kazakhstan, with consular assistance provided by the British Embassy Office in Almaty, Kazakhstan. See the General section of this travel advice for more details.
Since March 2006, there have been a number of demonstrations in Bishkek related to the internal-political situation. Political tensions remain high and a demonstration led by the political opposition is due to take place on 11 April 2007. You should check the current situation before travelling and avoid any political demonstrations or large crowds while in Kyrgyzstan. See the Political Situation section of this travel advice for more details.
Tensions also exist over recognition of the Kyrgyz-Uzbek borders and you should only use officially recognised border crossings if travelling in the region. There is a risk that uncontrolled border areas may be land-mined. See the Local Travel section of this travel advice for more details.
There is a threat from terrorism in Kyrgyzstan. Attacks could be indiscriminate and against civilian targets
Most visits to Kyrgyzstan are trouble-free. The main type of incident for which British nationals require consular assistance in Kyrgyzstan relates to victims from crime. Since June 2005 there have been a number of criminal incidents involving foreigners in Kyrgyzstan. See the Crime section of this travel advice for more details.
You should carry your passport, or a copy of it, at all times. The police can arrest you if you do not carry identification.
We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.
China:
Outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in China have resulted in a small number of human fatalities. As a precaution, you should avoid live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you might come into contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.
British nationals require visas to enter China. Visas cannot be obtained on arrival except at HainanIsland. Carefully check your visa validity as fines can be levied for overstaying.
The threat from terrorism in China is low but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
Most visits to China are trouble-free. The main type of incident for which British nationals require consular assistance in China is for replacing lost or stolen passports. Please note that only the British Embassy in Beijing has the facility to issue replacement passports, although applications can be submitted at the Consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chongqing.
We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.
An updated FCO brief will be given to all participants at the UK training weekend.
Any further FCO advice will be directed to the Expedition Leaders before and during the expedition in order to appropriately brief the clients. This will cover an update on the political situation, any no-go areas and current advice.
Adopt buddy / buddy principal from outset as standard procedure. Briefing on UK training weekends will include sizes of groups, how to obtain assistance and location of adults.
Leaders to constantly check participant’s locations. Participants briefed to retrace route by day, stay put by night and to be aware of own and partners situation. Leaders to always nominate a meeting point and time to be there.
3.
Lost (Group)
Low
Adult supervision. Group will be led throughout by leaders and / or a local guide, throughout.
Periodic checks during route and education on route to staff and clients.
VEHICLES
4.
Vehicle crash or failure
Low
Expeditions will not use local buses or taxis. It will use reputable transport companies, as advised by our in country providers, having roadworthy vehicles.
Leaders to assess driver suitability and competency to drive prior to driving off. Check vehicle for defective brakes, tyres and lights.
There will be no travelling after dark unless it is absolutely vital to so to do.
Leaders to position themselves near to the driver throughout the journey to control speed and continuing ability to drive. Ensure that the group has frequent rests. If in any doubt cease the journey as appropriate
5.
Road quality.
Medium
Roads vary enormously from rough tracks to smooth tarmac. They often have big drops to one side or the other. The standard of other drivers varies too. Driver to be aware of these problems and to drive accordingly.
Leaders to be near to driver to monitor speed, driver awareness of these problems and driver’s ability to drive according to the prevailing conditions
Flight anxiety, nerves and general apprehensiveness of journey.
Medium
Comprehensive briefing from leaders and support from rest of team
Leaders to observe and look after those concerned. Keep person(s) occupied and reassured
8.
Group member inexperience including not being aware of the hazards associated with the country / environment.
Medium
Appropriate briefing and training given to all participants prior to departure with particular regard to health, hygiene and safety issues
Daily briefing of group and close control every day
9.
Being unhappy with circumstances and not getting on with other group members, homesickness
Medium
Discussion with group members prior to expedition on the likelihood of such an event. Gradual exposure to the environment
Individual(s) concerned monitored by leaders & buddy and encouraged to join in the activities as much as possible and to be integrated into the group who should help the person or people involved
10.
Different culture, people, language and dress
A different way of life and religious beliefs
Medium
Group briefed prior to departure at training sessions on all aspects of what to expect. This will include appropriate dress code
11.
Third party awareness in towns.
Low
Buddy / buddy system applies throughout. Advice will be given on RV’s location of leaders and how to obtain assistance
Careful briefings giving precise timings and meeting places
12.
Mugging, theft, rip offs, assault and sexual harassment, lone people seen as an easy target
Medium
Advice given during training sessions to include minimum group numbers when in towns and cities. Group advised not to carry valuables and large amounts of money
All participants advised only to take what they can afford to loose and not to put temptation in temptations way.
Monitoring of group throughout the expedition and on going briefing
13.
Accommodation security and theft including theft of valuables or personal belongings from hotel rooms
Medium
All valuables – including Passports - to be secured by Leader or assisting staff. Group educated prior to trip and on arrival with the need to be vigilant
Ensure rooms are locked and secure when they are vacant. Valuables hidden or given to staff for safe keeping. Use money belt and if wearing multi pocketed garments spread money around. Any theft needs to be reported immediately to the police and a report obtained
14.
Accommodation fire hostel or hotel
Low
Set ground rules before departure to include a no smoking policy whilst inside buildings. All clients and staff aware of safety notices in hotels and emergency procedures. Group to be aware of where the Leaders are located
Leaders to check hotel and inform group on what to do and where to meet in the event of a fire starting. Leaders to enforce the no smoking rule.
15.
Alcohol, drugs and sex
offerings of aforementioned in country and between group members
Low
Clear rules set before departure. Rules to be applied for smoking and drinking. Zero tolerance of drug abuse with offenders returned to UK immediately, at their own expense. Sex between group members is forbidden.
Ensuring that the rules are obeyed with a review of compliance throughout the trip
16.
Lack of fitness and being unable to proceed with expedition
Low
Fitness training programme for all participants prior to departure. In country, groups advised to take walks steadily and not to race and to drink plenty of water
Allow time to acclimatise before undertaking long walks. After a few days longer walks may be attempted but advice given about the need to drink plenty of water.
17.
Lack of preparation resulting in arriving on expedition with incorrect or unsuitable clothing
Low
Group safety equipment carried by Leaders. Comprehensive kit list has been suggested.At training sessions kit inspected with advice givenas appropriate.
Leader to monitor clothing worn by group members with further advice given where appropriate. Group brief given at start of day to ensure correct is kit is carried and clothing are worn
18.
Camping routine: maintaining criteria for being ‘under canvas’
Low
Members will use only campsites that are designated as such or have been recced by the Leader. Group are briefed on correct procedures with due regard to personal safety, food preparation, cooking, stove safety, personal hygiene, siting of lavatory tent (if required) with strict rules on water collection and purification (as required)
Leaders to ensure that discipline is maintained and site carefully chosen. Leader and staff to monitor all cooking and other activities. In the event of bad weather a cooking area is set aside. There will be no cooking in tents
19.
Crossing steep ground where there is the possibility of: rock-falls / landslides / animal initiated rock falls
Low
Leaders supervise safe travel through these types of terrain. Use of local guides where necessary
The Group will maintain recognised crossing points and paths
20.
River crossings where there is the possibility of being swept away / tripping / getting caught in debris / drowning
Low
The Group will avoid river crossings wherever possible and try and use bridges even if this entails a detour. If there is no option brief group precisely on the method to be adopted and consider other hazards downstream and/or upstream such as flash flooding.
Particular attention will be paid to weak or non-swimmers.
Leaders with the co-operation of local guide organise river crossings only if absolutely necessary.
21.
Water-based activities where there is a possibility of drowning.
Medium
Leaders to ensure that a full safety brief is given prior to the activity.
Leader must be aware of any weak or non-swimmers and act accordingly even to the point of asking individuals not to participate. Leader to monitor group at all times
22.
Guides and Porters that may be untrustworthy / thieves / unreliable.
Low
The Group will use reliable in country guides from reputable companies that have good safety records. Group to be briefed on possible dangers and how to treat these individuals
Leader to continually assess the guides performance and behaviour of porters
23.
Project work on site and work related injuries, including: muscle strain, bad backs, sun stroke
Medium
Detailed daily briefing for the day’s work. If appropriate safety glasses, gloves and helmets must be worn. A first aid kit must be at hand at all times whilst this work is being carried out. Encourage group to make the locals aware of proper safety procedures
Careful supervision at all times especially if using tools or machinery. Ensure that appropriate machine guards are in place. Let the locals do whatever needs machining
Airline to ensure safety of aircraft and to provide clear communication to passengers
25.
Hijack Plane hijacked for ransom or other political purpose
Low
All flights provided by reputable airline with screening of all passengers
Listen and do exactly as commanded by either hijackers or cabin staff. Keep together if at all possible
26.
Loss or theft of luggage or loss of personal equipment after landing and theft of baggage during expedition
Medium
Vital medication always carried on self. Insurance will cover immediate expenses with full remuneration if baggage not delivered. Group told to be vigilant at all times and not to leave valuables lying around
Everyone to be diligent of their own baggage and look out for others too. Obtain police report of any theft of personal kit
27.
Flight cancellation or missed flight
Low
Leaders to contact either in country agents or YSES office as appropriate. Simultaneously take precautions to look feed / accommodate / reassure group.
Leaders to always arrive early for flights.
HEALTH
28.
Previous medical conditions
Low
All team members to complete medical form along with all staff prior to departure. Copies of these will be held by the Leader with any problems highlighted. Any major problems need to be referred to participants GP for approval to take part
Leaders to be fully aware of any problems before the expedition leaves the country.
29.
Conventional illness or minor ailments. Worst case scenario is patient being uncomfortable and having to rest for a day or so
Medium
Comprehensive first aid kit carried to cover most minor ailments. Health and hygiene to be discussed with group both at training sessions and in country.
Leaders to monitor all expedition members when sick. All bites and ailments to be examined and a doctor called if necessary
30.
Serious medical problems that could belife threatening if not resolved
Low
Leaders to be fully aware of evacuation procedures and location of nearest hospital
If illness not going to be resolved quickly then evacuation to UK may be necessary. Contact YSES insurance provider as soon as possible.
31.
Personal hygiene and infection resulting in debilitating and threat of spreading infection to rest of group
Low
Briefings and discussion about personal hygiene to be given at training sessions and again in country, especially regarding hand washing before handling food and after going to the lavatory
Reinforcement of hand washing with leaders monitoring all individuals, especially during the expedition phase whilst away from sanitary facilities
32.
Infected wounds resulting in danger of blood poisoning and ulceration
Low
Briefing before expedition on treatment of cuts and abrasions.
Leaders to check all serious wounds twice daily for infection
33.
Lack of balanced diet leading to poor bodily functions, stomach and intestinal problems
Low
Leaders aware of food types and local dishes. Allergy / dietary requirements prior notified to leaders. Leaders to recommend what food to purchase.
Constant monitoring of food intake of group members paying particular attention to how balanced the diet is, especially to those with special needs
34.
Food poisoning: Leading to acute stomach and intestinal problems
Medium
Majority of food bought in country with strict adherence to sell by dates. Groups to only eat at reputable restaurants or camp cooks when not self catering. Leaders to ensure that all camp meals are thoroughly cooked prior to eating. On trek leaders to ensure hygiene and that food is thoroughly cooked. If eating fruit ensure that it is either washed in clean purified water or peeled before eating
When using restaurants only use those that have a good reputation and ask if salads are washed in purified water. Ask if cold meats are fresh. Avoid local corner fast food stalls.
35.
Heat related problems: Exhaustion and dehydration are both serious results of over exposure to sunlight
Medium
Group told how to recognise symptoms in themselves and others during training sessions. Inform group on type of clothes to wear. Emphasise use of sunscreens and other barriers to protect skin from direct sunlight
Leaders to continually monitor fluid intake of group especially when exercising or working. Ensure that shade is available (use an umbrella if necessary) and that rest periods are taken frequently. Endorse the buddy / buddy system
36.
Altitude related illness.
Medium
Group educated about the dangers of altitude sickness and how to recognise signs and symptoms. Leaders to be aware of speed of appropriate height gains.
Only experienced Leaders knowledgeable about altitude problems and signs to lead any expedition going above 3000m
Leaders to constantly monitor group members and be aware of every group member’s progress. Encourage the buddy system and ensure that each person drinks plenty of water. No alcohol. If signs persist and not relieved by a simple analgesic then descent is the only option
37.
Animal bites: Bites from a rabid animal could develop with fatal consequences if not treated
Low
Group advised to keep away from both domestic and wild animals especially dogs and bats. Group members told to inform leader if bitten or scratched
If bitten by any reptile or animal, wild or domestic evacuate to nearest hospital for appropriate assessment and treatment
38.
Sand injuries whilst in the desert. Sand can get in eyes and other orifices which are intensely irritating
High
Careful briefing. contact.No contact lenses. Always wear long sleeved shirts and long trousers and stout footwear
Leaders to ensure that all precautionary measures are taken and that group members shower immediately after return. Use of soothing creams help with irritations
45.
Natural or man-made disaster
Medium
Leader and other staff to brief group on the possibility of the event.Group must listen to any safety brief given by leader, staff and the local police and/or rescue personnel and ACT on their advice.
Leaders to ask local people on a regular basis.Look at any frequency chart available and to be aware of all evacuation details from any building
46.
Leader or accompanying staff fall ill or become incapacitated
Due to accident or unforeseen illnesses
Low
Due to accident or unforeseen illnesses
Replacement Leader replaced as thought necessary.
47.
Emergency Contact for parents / Next of Kin (NOK)
Low
Parents / NOK will be provided with a schedule and telephone numbers for contacting participants in emergency. It is recommended that all emergencies are routed through YSES in UK, unless in extremis.
Strumenti 
Guida
