Our Commitment to Safety and Risk Management

At Above14000ft, we prioritise the safety and well-being of our guests above all else. We consider it our ethical obligation to educate and inform our guests about the potential risks and hazards associated with outdoor programs and activities. We believe that through providing comprehensive curricula, skilled staff, and robust risk management plans and procedures, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

We hold our guests and our reputation in high regard. We are privileged to work with exceptional individuals and maintain an excellent standing in the industry. To maintain these standards, risk management and safety are of paramount importance to us at Above14000ft. We are proud to maintain an outstanding safety record, which is a testament to our commitment and dedication.

Central to our risk management system is the competence of our staff and the implementation of sound operational procedures. We take pride in our rigorous staff screening, training, evaluation, and emergency response protocols. Our team of experienced guides have been leading trips for over 25 years, accumulating a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Additionally, all our guides hold current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certifications, ensuring they are equipped to handle any medical emergencies that may arise during our adventures.

It is important to recognize that all outdoor programs inherently involve certain risks that may result in personal property loss or damage, illness, injury, or even death. While we provide professional staff and robust risk management practices, it is impossible to eliminate all risks or hazards completely. Outdoor activities, by their nature, can present unforeseen hazards such as rockfall, sudden illness, encounters with wild animals or insects, cold temperatures, and other participants. Life and Mother Nature are unpredictable.

Our community of instructors at Above14000ft comprises experienced outdoor educators and professional mountaineers who are well-versed in our emergency response procedures. They bring with them a wealth of experience, having led trips and expeditions for over 25 years. Their extensive experience and knowledge contribute to creating a safe and secure environment for our guests. Additionally, their current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certifications ensure they are equipped with the necessary medical skills to provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies.

As a standard practice, our guides cover relevant risk management issues and rules during every program. Adherence to these rules and maintaining a positive mindset are essential for our guests’ safety and well-being.

Before embarking on any program, Above14000ft conducts a thorough reconnaissance of the area. This involves visiting the program site, assessing facilities, engaging with local communities, determining travel distances and times, identifying the nearest medical facilities, and gaining an overall understanding of the area’s challenges.

For minor medical incidents, such as minor allergies, upset stomachs, sprains, bruises, and blisters, our instructors are equipped to provide basic first aid, administer over-the-counter remedies or medications, or recommend rest. However, more serious injuries or illnesses, such as fractures or severe allergic reactions, may require evacuation to the nearest medical facility. In such cases, we make every effort to inform client administrators and parents promptly.

The remote nature of some of the areas we visit offers both extraordinary beauty and potential challenges in case of emergencies. While we carry communication devices, such as radios or cell phones, for emergency purposes, it is important to note that reliable communication in these areas can be impacted by atmospheric and rugged terrain conditions. There may be instances where groups are temporarily separated from communication devices for several hours or even a day.

While we are dedicated to providing professional staff and implementing quality risk management techniques, we must acknowledge that we cannot completely eliminate all risks. In fact, risk is an integral part of adventure, and it is what makes our programs exciting and remarkable. Engaging in an adventure means embracing and successfully navigating risks along the way, which ultimately enhances the overallexperience and benefits gained.

At Above14000ft, we remain committed to maintaining the highest safety standards, continuously improving our risk management practices, and ensuring that our guests can embark on their adventures with confidence, knowing that their well-being is our utmost priority. With our team of experienced guides who have been leading trips for over 25 years and hold current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certifications, we have the knowledge, skills, and experience to handle any situation that may arise during our programs.

We understand that all outdoor activities involve inherent risks, and while we strive to minimize those risks through comprehensive planning and preparation, it is important to recognize that some uncertainties are beyond our control. Our experienced guides have encountered various challenges over the years and have developed the ability to make informed decisions and judgments to prioritize the safety of our guests.

To ensure the highest level of safety, we conduct thorough risk assessments and implement proactive measures to mitigate potential hazards. Our guides receive ongoing training to stay up-to-date with the latest safety protocols and emergency response techniques. We are dedicated to adhering to or exceeding industry standards in risk management, constantly reevaluating and improving our procedures as needed.

At Above14000ft, we also emphasize the importance of responsible and ethical behavior during our programs. We believe in preserving the natural environment and respecting the local communities and cultures we encounter. Our guests are provided with guidelines and recommendations to minimize their impact on the environment, such as avoiding products that exploit wildlife, practicing responsible waste management, and respecting local customs and traditions.

We encourage open communication with our guests, and their feedback is invaluable to us. If any concerns or questions arise during a program, our guides are readily available to address them and provide necessary support. We believe that by fostering a culture of safety, open dialogue, and mutual respect, we can create a positive and rewarding experience for all participants.

Above14000ft is committed to maintaining our excellent safety record while providing adventurous and memorable experiences for our guests. We understand that adventure inherently involves risks, but with our experienced staff, comprehensive risk management practices, and dedication to safety, we aim to create a supportive and secure environment where our guests can explore, learn, and enjoy the wonders of the outdoors.

In addition to our robust safety measures and experienced staff, Above14000ft is proud to have a reliable communication backbone in place, especially in remote areas where connectivity may be limited. We understand the importance of prompt and effective communication during emergency situations, and we have taken steps to ensure that our guides are equipped with the necessary tools.

All our guides carry Inreach devices, which serve as a vital communication lifeline in remote and challenging environments. These devices allow our guides to stay connected with our support teams and access emergency services when needed. The Inreach devices provide two-way communication capabilities, enabling our guides to relay important information and receive assistance in real-time.

The use of Inreach devices enhances our ability to manage emergencies and coordinate response efforts effectively. Should an unforeseen situation arise, our guides can quickly reach out for help, providing accurate details about the incident and facilitating a prompt and coordinated response. This reliable communication backbone gives our guests an added layer of assurance, knowing that help can be readily summoned if required.

At Above14000ft, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our guests above all else. Our commitment to maintaining open lines of communication, even in remote areas, demonstrates our dedication to providing a secure environment for our participants. The presence of Inreach devices further enhances our safety protocols, enabling us to respond swiftly and effectively to any emergencies that may arise.

We continuously evaluate and upgrade our communication systems to ensure that they meet the unique challenges of the environments in which we operate. By investing in reliable communication technology, we aim to mitigate the potential risks associated with adventure travel and provide peace of mind to our guests and their loved ones.

Our guides undergo thorough training on the proper use of Inreach devices, ensuring that they are proficient in operating and maximizing the benefits of this communication tool. They are trained to prioritize safety and maintain open lines of communication with our support teams, enabling seamless coordination and response during emergencies.

Above14000ft’s commitment to safety extends to every aspect of our operations, including communication. We understand that effective communication is essential for maintaining a safe and secure environment for our guests. By equipping our guides with Inreach devices, we enhance our ability to address emergencies promptly and efficiently, further reinforcing our dedication to providing an exceptional and safe adventure experience.

As we continue to explore remote and breathtaking locations, we will remain at the forefront of communication technology to ensure that our guests can enjoy their adventures with confidence, knowing that we have the necessary resources in place to respond swiftly in any unforeseen circumstances.