Hazardous Plants & Fungi

Part of the risk assessment will be to identify any particularly hazardous plants and point them out to the group so that all members are aware of the dangers. The sap or hairs from some plants can cause rashes and blistering when in contact with skin, or after the skin is then exposed to sunlight. If hazardous plants are seen growing on site all members of the group will be taught how to distinguish and avoid coming into contact with them. 

Serious poisoning from ingestion of leaves, berries or mushrooms rarely occurs, even when curious children are involved. However, ingesting even small amounts of some species can cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps; and large amounts are potentially fatal. Consequently, we disallow all Saplings from foraging and eating anything that has not been agreed to be safe by a Forest School leader. If a member of the group is exposed to a hazardous plant or fungi, so that they have a reaction, a leader must be informed and appropriate First Aid given. If the  nature of the reaction is more serious the Emergency & Serious Incident Procedure must be followed.