Understanding Risk Management
Managing risk is a task that all trail organizations take very seriously. Here at Hike Ontario, we are dedicated to pursuing best practices, sound advice and proactively engaging in and encouraging safe practices and education.
Trail organizations minimize their exposure to risk through proven trail management practices. These are management actions that minimize the possibility of damage or injury (e.g., signs, barricades, supervision), minimize the impact of an accident (e.g., first aid posts, rescue equipment) and transfer liability to the trail user (e.g., disclaimers, user education).
In order to minimize these risks, trail organizations pay for general liability insurance. This defends the trail organization in the event they are sued. If blame is assigned to the trail organization, the insurance pays damages. In almost every case, general liability insurance extends to the defence of owners of land adjacent to and over which the trails pass.
Hike Ontario Risk Management Resources
Download a copy of Hike Ontario's risk management guide:
Additional risk management resources for Hike Ontario member clubs are available in the Members Area (login required).
For More Information
If you have questions or concerns, or you would like to get involved with our Planning & Development Committee, please contact us.