Cumbria Army Cadet Force “ Force Protection ” Newsletter
Newsletter Summer 2011 Issue No 1
Mr Dean Kirkpatrick ( SHEF Coordinator ) E-mail caa3 @ cumbriaarmycadets . com Tel : 01228 516231
Inside this Issue
Myth of the Moment – Safe Cadets – Accident Procedure – Silva Compasses – Accident Contact Details
Myth of the Moment
The reality
This is one of the oldest chestnuts around , a truly classic myth . A wellmeaning head teacher decided children should wear safety goggles to play conkers . Subsequently some schools appear to have banned conkers on ‘ health & safety ’ grounds or made children wear goggles , or even padded gloves !
Realistically the risk from playing conkers is incredibly low and just not worth bothering about . If kids deliberately hit each other over the head with conkers , that ’ s a discipline issue , not health and safety .
Safe Cadets
Although the cadets ‘ safety record is good in major accidents are fortunately rare , there will inevitably be some minor incidents such as cuts , grazes and sprained limbs , along with a few near misses .
What can the Adult Volunteers do to ensure that these are kept to the absolute minimum ? Here are some reminders :
Be Risk aware not Risk Averse .
Always Educate the cadets about the dangers involved in any activities they are undertaking , but don ’ t frighten them in to being risk averse – or they won ’ t try anything . This is a fine balance .
Ensure Instructors know exactly what they are doing . All Instructors MUST be competent in terms of their
A safe cadet is one who has been well briefed . Cadets must have the appropriate levels of information , instruction and supervision to get the best out of the task .
Make sure everyone knows how to use the equipment correctly . Safe equipment is vital . For example , there is a safe method of using the cadet GP rifle and this is stated in the training manuals . Adults must always remember that any weapon is intrinsically dangerous , but is safe if used in accordance with the instructions .
Regularly Maintain Equipment . Always look after and maintain the equipment you are about to rely on . An effective Instructor will check it thoroughly before hand .
Safe System of Training ( SST ). The SST is in place . You are reminded that you must conduct a risk assessment if training is not safe . If in doubt carry out a risk assessment . Explain to all that the control measures are in place for the cadets ’ safety and ensure that the instructors fully understand the part that they have to play . Remember if you deviate from the original plan for any reason you may have to revisit the risk assessment as a consequence .