As a tour leader, you have a responsibility to ensure the safety and security of your tour participants. This means you need to plan ahead, communicate effectively, follow protocols, and handle emergencies. Here are some tips on how to do that.
Before you start your tour, you should research the destination, the itinerary, the transport, and the accommodation. You should also check the travel advisories, the health and safety regulations, and the cultural norms of the places you are visiting. You should prepare a risk assessment, a contingency plan, and a crisis management plan. You should also have a list of emergency contacts, such as local authorities, medical facilities, and your tour operator.
During your tour, you should communicate regularly with your tour participants, your tour operator, and your local partners. You should inform your tour participants about the safety and security rules, the expectations, and the potential hazards of each activity and destination. You should also update them on any changes or issues that may affect the tour. You should report any incidents or problems to your tour operator and your local partners as soon as possible. You should also use appropriate channels and tools to communicate, such as radios, phones, or apps.
As a tour leader, you should follow the protocols and procedures of your tour operator, your local partners, and the authorities. You should comply with the legal and ethical standards of the tourism industry and the destination. You should also respect the rights and privacy of your tour participants and the local communities. You should also follow the best practices of environmental and social responsibility, such as reducing waste, avoiding pollution, and supporting local businesses.
If an emergency occurs, you should act quickly, calmly, and professionally. You should follow your crisis management plan and use your first aid skills if needed. You should prioritize the safety and well-being of your tour participants and yourself. You should also communicate with your tour operator, your local partners, and the authorities. You should document the emergency and the actions taken. You should also provide support and assistance to your tour participants and yourself after the emergency.
After your tour, you should evaluate your performance and the feedback from your tour participants, your tour operator, and your local partners. You should identify the strengths and weaknesses of your safety and security management. You should also learn from your experiences and the best practices of other tour leaders. You should seek opportunities to update your knowledge and skills on safety and security issues. You should also share your insights and suggestions with your tour operator and your peers.
As a tour leader, you should not only ensure the safety and security of your tour participants, but also enjoy and inspire them. You should create a positive and memorable experience for them. You should also promote the values and benefits of responsible and sustainable tourism. You should show them the beauty and diversity of the world, and encourage them to respect and protect it.