Risk Management 4-H Youth Development Programs
Dec 25, 2015
What is Risk Management?
The process used to protect assets by minimizing the potential for negative outcomes.
It means the 4-H club, group or planning committee anticipates potential risks as the activity is planned and decides ways to manage these risks.
When We Pay Attention to Risk Management Issues…
It becomes an important educational component of our programs, focusing on safety and prevention.
Participants can focus on learning in a safe, comfortable environment.
Liability
Legally bound or responsible. Something for which one is liable; an obligation, a responsibility, or a debt.
Forms of Liability
NegligenceFailure to use that degree of care which an ordinary person of reasonable prudence would use under the given or similar circumstances.
Assault and battery False arrest and imprisonment Invasion of privacy Defamation (libel and slander) Violation of constitutional rights
Risk Management Process
Phase 1:Risk Analysis
Risk Identification Evaluation & Measurement
Phase 2:Risk Response
Risk ControlFinancing &
Communication
Phase 3:Risk ReviewMonitor and
Evaluate RiskPlans
Risk Management Strategies
ReduceReduce
To lessen in extent, amount, number, degree, or price. To gain control of.
Modify the program or facility, such as adding a fence to separate the public from animals in a show ring
Risk Management Strategies
AvoidAvoid
Taking steps to remove a hazard, engage in an alternative activity, or otherwise end a specific exposure.
Replace night hike with day time activity
Discontinue high risk event
Risk Management Strategies
TransferTransferShifting all or part of a risk to another party. Insurance is the most common method of risk transfer, but there are other means.
Charter a bus instead of using personal vehicles
Hold meeting in a public place instead of your home
Risk Management Strategies
AssumeAssume
To take upon oneself; undertake.
Decide all necessary precautions have been taken and conduct the event
Volunteer Liability Protection State Statutes
Limited liability for volunteers of non-stock corporations
Limited liability for directors and officers Civil liability exemption for equine activities
Volunteer Liability Protection Insurance
In most situations, the volunteer’s personal homeowners insurance and automobile insurance is considered primary liability insurance.
Volunteer Liability Protection Insurance
A majority of Wisconsin counties are insured through one of two mutual insurance companies: Wisconsin County Mutual Insurance Corporation Wisconsin Mutual Municipal Insurance Corporation
Both companies provide secondary volunteer liability coverage at no additional charge, provided procedures are followed.
Volunteer and Member Accident Insurance
Primary accident insurance is highly recommended.
It can be purchased reasonably for individual 4-H events or for a full 4-H year: American Income Life Insurance is an
example. Note: This is accident insurance, not liability
insurance.
Chaperones
1 adult for every 10 youth is recommended … required for overnight events. Lower ratio for younger children.
Must be at least 21 years of age. Adults and youth should not stay in the same
room. Chaperones for overnight events must complete
the Youth Protection Process.
Emergency Procedures
Have an emergency plan. In case of emergency:
Your first priority is to provide medical attention to the injured.
Contact the parent or guardian. Contact the 4-H Youth Development staff
member. Prepare an incident report.
Finances
Money raised in the name of 4-H must be handled through an approved account in an accountable manner.
Transportation
Drivers transporting youth should be at least 18 years of age with 2 years of successful driving experience (must be 21 if arranged by Extension staff).
Avoid transportation of only one youth. Use of 12/15 passenger vans is highly
discouraged (Extension staff are prohibited from driving these vans).
Working with Youth
Work in open places. Always encourage parents to attend. Two adults present when possible. Post and communicate safety rules. Provide written guidelines and rules. Supervise youth at all times.
Working with Youth
Never use physical punishment or deny basic needs.
Be alert to physical/emotional needs. Respect privacy of youth.
When physical contact is needed to demonstrate a skill or technique first ask for permission from the child.
Resources
Contact your county 4-H Youth Development staff when questions or concerns arise.
They have access to county and university resources to assist with your question or concern.
Resources
UW Extension 4-H Youth Development – http://www.uwex.edu/ces/4h/resources/mgt/risk.cfm Risk Management Guidelines Links to State Statutes Q & A regarding risk management and insurance Link to sample waiver Links to other resources
Presentation Developed by:Donna Menart
4-H Youth Development Assistant State Program Leader
November 2005
An EEO/AA employer, University of Wisconsin-Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and Americans with Disabilities (ADA) requirements. © 2005 by the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System.