It is on big exercises involving, for example, the emergency services and a number of our members at a venue open to the weather, rough terrain, moving vehicles, poor visibility etc. that we are most at risk. Here are some tips to reduce that risk. Remember that every member is expected to look out for the safety of themselves and those around them.

• Appoint a senior CU member to act as co-ordinator and client liaison point. 
• Liaise with the client over producing a Risk Assessment document that mentions Casualties Union by name. Complete at least the front page of the CU Risk Assessment log. 
• Agree a safety code-word such as No duff or For real  to indicate that a member has a real problem, pain, illness, and is not acting. Ensure every exercise participant is aware of it. 
• Find out what the client's lifting policy will be, so that heavy members do not put anyone's back at risk. They could either be walking wounded, or be asked to come out of role while the lift is simulated. 
• Ensure that there are enough Safety Observers, either from CU or the client, to watch over CU members at all times. 
• Do not act a condition you already have, e.g. asthma. 
• Do not participate in the exercise if you not physically fit to do so. 
• Ensure all members have been adequately briefed and are aware of hazards identified in the Risk Assessment. 
• Never travel to the event wearing casualty make-up: it should be applied in the make-up room provided. 
• Remove casualty make-up before travelling home.