Risk Management Basics - Hunting Guides

There are some basic precautions you can take to reduce your risk while out in the field with clients. Sometimes putting these items into practice can even reduce your insurance premium.

The tough part about being in the outdoor industry is that you are paid based on the "thrill" you provide your clients. Therefore, it's critical to create the ideal balance of giving your clients what they want and maintaining a safe environment. Here are some basic safety principals you can put into force. For a personalized risk assessment please give our office a call at 800-756-6507.

1. Require that ALL participants sign and complete a liability waiver which discloses risks involved. All minors must have parents present and signed for. In addition, prescreen guests prior to participating: how much prior experience do they have? What medical/health conditions and fitness ability do they have? Are they under the influence of alcohol?


2. Require that all riders/drivers of vehicles or horses wear proper safety gear including helmets and appropriate attire. Require lifejackets be worn on boat trips.


3. Bring proper safety equipment on trips such as: communication device, first aid kit, rope, flares, snake bite kit, GPS system, etc.


4. Stay up to date on, and follow all state safety regulations for your industry.


5. All guides should have completed proper safety training including first aid and CPR. Additional training is always a plus.


6. All guides should be licensed and certified for outfitting. Check new guide's references before hiring, if sub-guide request proof of insurance.


7. Implement a written safety/emergency plan and distribute to all staff members - this should address evacuation procedures, overnight accomodations, lost parties, injuries, etc.


8. Keep a low guest to guide ratio and avoid allowing too many hunters to go out at once.


9. Do not provide or allow alcohol during trip!


10. If hunting stands are used, they should be checked by guide before every use. Safety harnesses should be required while in use.


11. Always file an itinerary with someone - forest serivce or home office - so people know where you are at at all times.

Insurance Review

1. Review your general liability insurance. What are your limits? Do your limits meet state requirements?


2. Are you properly insured to cover specific exposures? (ATVs, snowmobiles, lodging, horses, hunting, fishing, pack trips, etc.)


3. Are you using your personal auto? What are your auto limits? If you only have limits that meet state requirements it's likely that your limits are drastically too low for your exposure.


4. Do guests come into your home? You will also need to review your homeowner's policy.


5. Do you use ATVs, boats, or other vehicles for personal use? Your business policy will not cover personal use, you may want to look into additional coverage.

For a personalized insurance review simply fax your current policies to 775-831-6235 "Attn: Jacob" and we will gladly assist you in reviewing your current policies and examining possible gaps in coverage.