Risk minimisation at Wytham Woods
This is specifically for events at Wytham Woods. A British Woodland is not a particularly hazardous place, but it is good to be aware of the hazards that there are so that your visit can be relaxing and uncomplicated.
Last updated 5th Sept 2022
What the hazards are
Stinging insects can cause pain and in some people, an allergic reaction. You could be allergic if you haven’t been stung before, or even if you have and you didn’t have a strong allergic reaction the last time - it can build up. So stings need to be taken seriously immediately it happens, and for the first few hours.
Biting insects such as some horseflies can give painful bites and may pursue you for lunch.
Ticks (which can carry Lyme disease). Mostly Spring - Autumn. These tend to hang out on long vegetation waiting for a passing mammal to climb on to. You can check during the day and brush them off, check your clothing, boots and body at the end of the day and remove them before before they get stuck into you, and if you find one stuck in you can remove it before it can transfer any disease. So it’s not a major hazard but it’s unpleasant and needs to be dealt with in good time.
Scratches from vegetation. The risks from scratches are usually minor but some, such as blackthorn can cause infection, so carrying some water to wash, antiseptic cream and some plasters can deal with the most incidents and minimise risk. It’s a very good idea to keep tetanus jabs up to date.
Some plants can burn. A couple of plants at Wytham have sap that can burn. If you know what they are (hogweed - massive leaves, and wild parsnip - like a yellow cow parsley) you can avoid them, and if you come in contact you can cover the area immediately to keep the sun from it, and wash the sap off asap.
Poisonous plants and fungi. Even if you think you know you might be wrong! Best not to touch anything. Just look!
Uneven ground, steep slopes, vegetation, overhanging branches. Ankles are the most accident prone parts of the body in the Woods.
Forestry activities. There is tree felling, machinery and vehicles which is well signposted, and you can hear and keep away from.
Vehicles on the tracks. The speed limits are 15 max and visibility is mainly good, but there are a couple of blind corners on the main road through the Woods so it’s good to keep an eye on smaller children who may be unaware.
Getting lost. The woods are large and visitors do sometimes get lost, but not for too long. No need to be afraid of using the less well used paths - you will find your way out eventually. You can use an app to check where you are. Nigel says if you get lost in Wytham Woods, walk uphill and you will find one of the main tracks which run along the ridges.
Safeguarding risks. The Woods are probably very safe - there are lots of nice walkers, and researchers around. But I’m always nervous and like kids to be with adults, but for their own wellbeing they need to be allowed out on their own sometimes, so if they go off on their own the rules are they stay in groups, and check in regularly. Smaller ones very close by, bigger ones further afield.
Burns from camp fires, if applicable. Camp fires with under 18s are only allowed with a responsible adult present at all times.
Cooking injuries can occur from toasting marshmallows, or cooking, so clear instructions and close supervision of under 18s is needed.
Use of tools such as spades for tree planting and saws for coppicing, if applicable.
The shelters - gazebos and parachute shelter - could pose a hazard if not treated with respect. A fire can be lit under the parachute but only in the middle and not if there is any straw present on the ground.
How we minimise the risk to visitors
The Wytham team keeps the main rides clear and monitors overhanging trees for risks.
We advise visitors on our guided activities of the risks and how to avoid them.
Event leaders will point out potential hazards such as ticks and particular types of plants.
Signs where there are particular hazards related to research or forestry activities.
We have a safeguarding policy, procedures and training in place to ensure that we protect children in our care.
First aiders available. Our Youth Educator is first aid trained, as are all three foresters.
Camp fires and toasting marshmallows are carefully controlled.
Cooking activities are carefully supervised and controlled.
Participants in activities using tools are given tools safety training and closely supervised.
People using the parachute shelter area are instructed how to use the area safely.
What you need to do to look after yourself and others
Keep to the paths unless with a guide from Wytham.
Carry a Wytham map and follow your progress on it. Or use an OS app or the Alltrails app which can tell you where you are on the paths.
Wear the recommended clothing and footwear.
Watch your footing - it is a woodland, not a park.
Obey all signage.
Don’t interfere with any equipment that you find.
During tick season check yourself regularly, at the end of the day and for the next couple of days.
Keep calm around stinging insects (bees, wasps). They will wander off.
Keep clear of biting insects. Females may be after a protein meal. Bug deterrent can be useful.
Unless someone with specific expertise tells you otherwise, assume it is unwise to eat anything you find.
Carry some water with you in case you are out for longer than expected.
Protect yourself from the sun and keep hydrated.
Have a first aid kit with you with the relevant kit in it.
Have a charged phone with you. The signal is generally good.
Keep social distance and ensure there is good ventilation when indoors.
When leaving children with us, ensure that you have completed our student support form.
Move slowly and carefully around camp fires, and follow instructions.
Concentrate and act carefully participating in cooking activities, and using tools.
Be careful around all equipment and shelters.