The probability of a mishap occurring is based on the frequency (“how often”), duration (“how long”), and severity (“how bad”) of the hazards encountered; during adventure travel, each is increased.
As compared to other types of travel, risk for illness and injury with adventure travel is much greater for several reasons (see Box 9-11). Risk for travel-associated illness and injury is a function of 2 variables: probability and consequence. The probability of a mishap occurring is based on the frequency (“how often”), duration (“how long”), and severity (“how bad”) of the hazards encountered; during adventure travel, each is increased. Objective hazards include difficult environmental conditions (e.g., terrain, weather). Dehydration, poor nutrition, and insufficient sleep are examples of subjective or human-controlled hazards.