The research site is located in a natural environment and participants are subject to natural dangers from plants and animals. Many plants have spines, thorns or needles that can pierce or cut the skin and several species of rattlesnakes are present. Interaction with a mountain lion or other large animal is possible. Many of the trails are steep and treacherous from loose gravel and rocks; there is always a realistic risk of falling. Use of a walking stick is a reasonable precaution when ascending or descending steep slopes. It is highly recommended that participants wear hiking boots with soles for rugged terrain, not hiking or running shoes.
Participants need to be aware of various risks to health and safety at different times of the year, including dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion/heat stroke, flashfloods, lightning, rock falls, animal bites, and hypothermia.
For suggested treatment of a condition resulting from one of these dangers, see the DDRS First Aid and Safety Handbook (Bowles, Jansen, and Gibson 2016) located with the First Aid kit.
The McCoy College of Science, Mathematics and Engineering has developed a Fieldwork Safety Manual for planning field-related activities on and off campus. Forms must be completed and signed prior to fieldwork being conducted. Use the following link to Word versions of the forms to complete and submit them to the applicable department chair, director, or dean.
Because of the many potential sources of injury, any visitor venturing away from the main building must report travel plans in advance to a responsible party and be accompanied by another adult. At least two adults must accompany any minor(s).
For each health or safety incident that occurs at the DDRS, an incident report must be completed indicating the nature of the incident, the steps that were taken to address it, and the outcome.