The Coalisland Camino Risk Assessment

The Coalisland Camino is a waymarked walking route starting at the Community Hub, St. Patrick’s Hall, 6 Barrack Street, Coalisland, BT71 4LS. It follows a scenic circular path along the Coalisland Canal and rural roads through Derrytresk, Derryloughan, and Clonoe, finishing back at the Community Hub.

The Coalisland Camino has evolved from Friends2Talk’s weekly Walk & Talk group and promotes both mental health and physical well-being.

Important Notice

All participants in an official Friends2Talk Coalisland Camino walk must agree to and abide by the following conditions. It is the sole responsibility of the participant to ensure compliance. Friends2Talk or its representatives are not liable for non-compliance.

Limitations

This Risk Assessment applies only to official Coalisland Camino events. It does not cover unofficial or personal walks, even if participants hold a Coalisland Camino Pilgrim Passport. Individuals walking independently do so at their own risk.

Insurance

Event registration does not include personal accident or liability insurance. Participants should arrange their own cover. Friends2Talk will provide sufficient public liability and event insurance for the official walk.

Risk & Safety Guidelines

  1. General Safety: Walking can involve risk of discomfort, injury, or accident due to uneven terrain, road traffic, weather, and water proximity. Always follow safety advice from organisers and stewards.
  2. Fitness & Equipment: A reasonable level of fitness is required. Outdoor footwear and clothing (including Hi-Viz) are essential.
  3. Route Changes: Risks include slips, collisions, and weather-related issues. Organisers may change or terminate the walk in extreme circumstances. Follow all safety instructions provided.
  4. Age Limit: Participants must be 16+. Those aged 16–17 must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Hazards & Controls

Hazard Who Might Be Affected Control Measures
Sun / Heat Exhaustion Individual / Group
  • Wear suitable clothing and sun protection
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Bring water or cold drinks
Presence of Water – Drowning Individual / Group
  • Exercise caution near water and canal edges
  • No water crossings, but proximity to canal, bridges, and Lough Neagh
Fall / Tripping Individual / Group
  • Stewards at key points
  • Watch your step and maintain a safe pace
  • Call assistance if needed (number provided on event day)
Cold / Hypothermia Individual / Group
  • Check forecast and follow organiser advice
  • Wear warm, weather-appropriate clothing
  • Bring a flask of hot drink in cold conditions
First Aid Required Individual
  • Bring a basic first aid kit
  • Order of Malta & CFRs on standby
  • Write down medical conditions to help responders
  • In emergencies, call 999
Hospitalisation All Involved
  • Participants' emergency contacts are held at base
  • Ambulance service notified of event
Emergency Incident Management All Involved
  • Event may be rerouted or cancelled
  • Sweeper team in place
  • Notify base if route is not completed
Camino Walk Procedures All Involved
  • Route card and contact numbers provided
  • Pre-walk safety talk and attendance confirmation required
  • Final stamp or end confirmation required at St. Patrick’s Hall
  • Wear/carry suitable gear for terrain and weather
Roads, Footpaths, Animals All Involved
Disturbing Nature All Involved
  • Respect the environment – no picking wildflowers
  • No littering
  • Stay quiet and follow the trail
  • Leave no trace
Lyme’s Disease All Involved
  • Wear long trousers and socks to reduce risk of tick bites
Unsafe Structures All Involved
  • Do not enter derelict or unsafe buildings
  • Remain on the marked route
Road Crossing All Involved
  • Marked and stewarded crossings
  • Police notified and may assist
  • Walk maximum 2 abreast

Essential Camino Rucksack Items

  • Personal medication
  • Map (provided)
  • Optional compass or GPS
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Extra food and water
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Sunglasses / Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Whistle
  • Foil blanket / survival bag
  • Fully charged mobile phone
  • Sting treatment / antiseptic cream

Note: Carrying these items is a condition of participation.

Contact Information

  • Event Organiser: 07871 800 551
  • Emergency Services: Dial 999