Location: Drake's Trail Cycle Path - Plymbridge Woods
Meeting Point: on the corner of New Road and Station Road, just next to RM Bickleigh
Postcode: PL6 7AJ
What3Words: ///taped.dirt.safe

We’ll be walking along the cycle path on an out and back route. The path provides a mostly flat and even surface, making for a smooth walk with plenty of space to keep a comfortable pace. Participants should stay aware of other users on the path, such as cyclists and walkers, and keep dogs on leads to ensure safety for everyone. This is a dog and human adventure.

What to Bring:

• Water (for you and your dog)

• Weather appropriate clothing

• Hiking boots or sturdy footwear

• Head torch or torch

• Light for your dog’s collar or harness

• Optional: snacks and mug for drinks

Important Information:

• The route includes some steep and potentially slippery hills, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

• Dartmoor weather can change quickly. Come prepared for all weather conditions just in case.

Membership Requirement:

This event is only open to members of the K9 Commando Adventure Club. To join the club and sign up for future adventures, head over to our Shop page. You can also read more about the club here.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out before the day.

• K9 Commando Adventure Club – Risk Assessment

  Date: Tuesday, 27 January 2026
  Time: 18:00 – 19:30
  Location: Drake's Trail Cycle Path - Plymbridge Woods
  Meeting Point: on the corner of New Road and Station Road, just next to RM Bickleigh
  What3Words: ///taped.dirt.safe

  Identified Hazards & Control Measures

  Hazard | Who Might Be Harmed | Control Measures

  1. Uneven pavements, curbs, gravel, or street hazards

     Participants and dogs

     Participants advised to stay alert. Route planned to minimise hazards. Dogs kept on lead.

  2. Weather (heat, cold, rain, wind, etc.)
     

     Participants and dogs
     

     Participants informed to bring weather-appropriate clothing and water. Run may be modified or cancelled in extreme weather.

  3. Dehydration or heat-related illness
     

     Participants and dogs
     

     Regular water breaks encouraged; all advised to bring water. Organizers carry extra water.

  4. Road traffic and crossings
     

     Public, participants, and dogs
     

     Participants briefed to use crossings safely. Dogs kept on leads throughout.

  5. Dog fights or aggressive behaviour
     

     Public, dogs, and participants
     

     Dogs kept on leads when needed. Organizers trained in canine first aid.

  6. Injury to participant (e.g., trip, fall)
     

     Participants and dogs
     

     First aid kit available.

     Leaders trained in first aid. Emergency contact info collected. Group leaders have mobile phones for emergency contact.

  7. Medical emergencies (e.g., participant with pre-existing conditions)
     

     Participants and dogs
     

     Participants disclose medical info voluntarily via waiver. Organizers will act accordingly in an emergency, using provided emergency contacts and data.

  8. Allergic reaction or stings

     Participants and dogs
     

     Participants reminded to bring necessary medication (e.g., antihistamines, EpiPens). Emergency procedures are in place.

  9. Busy public areas (crowds, tourists, dogs)

     Public, participants, and dogs

     Dogs kept on leads at all times. Participants briefed to be aware of surroundings.

  10. Lost participant or dog

      Participants and dogs

      Headcount at start and finish. Group stays together. Dogs to remain on lead. What3Words provided.

  11. Waste or dog fouling

      Public, wildlife, participants, and dogs

      Participants instructed to pick up after their dogs and carry waste until proper disposal.

  12. Shared path use (cyclists, runners, walkers)

      Participants, dogs, and public

      Participants reminded to stay to one side and remain aware of surroundings. Dogs kept on leads or off-leash close to handlers at all times.

  Emergency Procedures

  In case of emergency, call 999.

  Closest hospital: Derriford Hospital, Plymouth (PL6 8DH), which is about a 10 minute car journey.

  Organizers will carry a first aid kit (human and dog) and have emergency contact info for all participants.

  Group leader to coordinate emergency response and stay with affected person until help arrives.

  First Aid & Communications

  Organizers are trained in human and canine first aid.

  Organizers to carry fully charged mobile phones.

  Review

  This risk assessment will be reviewed at the start of the event and adjusted if necessary due to conditions on the day.

  Prepared by: K9 Commando
  Date: 5 January 2026