Risk Management 4-H Youth Development Programs

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.

Important Risk Management Terms

Liability Legally bound or responsible. Something for which one is liable; an obligation, a responsibility, or a debt.

Forms of Liability Negligence Failure 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 Control Financing & Communication Phase 3: Risk Review Monitor and Evaluate Risk Plans

Risk Management Strategies Reduce 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 Avoid 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 Transfer Shifting 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 Assume 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.

Special Areas for Consideration

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 – cfm 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.