Crisis Management Plan
Beyond Brilliant Photography Retreat – Marble Falls, Texas

Traveling to Marble Falls, TX is generally very safe, especially in well-traveled areas and with organized groups like ours. Like any travel destination, there are a few things to be mindful of, mainly minor health risks (like wildlife or food sensitivity) and adjusting to a different environment.
With a little preparation and awareness, your trip will be smooth, enriching, and unforgettable. Marble Falls, TX is a charming Hill Country town known for its scenic lakes, rolling hills, and small-town hospitality and we're here to make sure you experience it safely and joyfully.

PREPARATION & PREVENTION
Pre-Trip Documentation
Please have:
• Legal Photo ID - driver’s license, passport or and other legal photo ID- must be current and up to date.
• Emergency contact info with medical conditions, allergies, medications available on both your phone and printed in your wallet, purse, or backpack.
• Travel insurance information.
• Signed Assumption of Risk/Liability Waiver Form - this is required and must be received prior to arrival to participate. These forms will be sent separately through email and will require a legal signature through a DocuSign system.

Local Safety & Overall Awareness

• Know emergency contacts: For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, dial the Marble Falls Police Department at 830 693 3611.
• Local laws - please familiarize yourself with local laws, when in doubt ASK before you proceed.

  Outdoor & Environmental Safety
• Prepare for sun exposure: Whether visiting in summer or winter, always use high-SPF sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat, especially important during spring and fall excursions.
• Stay hydrated: If hiking or exploring, carry water, a portable charger, and dress in layers. A rain jacket or poncho can be helpful with any outdoor activity.
• Be water-wise: When swimming or engaging in any activity, especially on Lake Marble Falls, never swim alone.
• Consider wildfire risk: Marble Falls lies in a region where wildland fires can occur—check local advisories.
• Do Not Touch or Feed Wildlife: It disrupts ecosystems and can attract aggression. Only feed or touch animals on the ranch that you are permitted to do so.
• Insects: Insect repellent with DEET is highly recommended for mosquitoes.
• Environmental Awareness: Please look for and be aware of posted signs for dangerous plants, trees, wildlife, and other environmental conditions. Additionally, please be aware that you are in a new environment that is unlike yours at home, do not touch/ handle plants and the like that you are not certain of.

While you likely won’t encounter most of them, Marble Falls is home to a variety of wildlife including snakes, insects, and small mammals. Common-sense precautions—like shaking out shoes, using a flashlight at night, wearing closed-toe shoes on hikes, and keeping food sealed—go a long way. You might see raccoons, skunks, or even bats (which help control bugs), and water areas may have snapping turtles or snakes. With a bit of awareness, you can fully enjoy the natural beauty while staying safe and respectful of the environment.

  Final Recommendations
• Travel with a group or partner.
• Keep valuables secure and out of plain sight.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.

 On-Site Safety
• Please Review:
• Evacuation routes
• Emergency contact numbers
• Location of first aid kits
• Local clinic:
  Baylor Scott & White - full-service hospital
810 State Hwy 71, Marble Falls, TX 78654
        (830) 201-8000 - Open 24 hours

Behavior policy: No street drugs or THC vapes are allowed. Alcohol is only permitted ONLY during welcome dinner and farewell party and must be served to you—unruly behavior will result in removal from the retreat. For this retreat we ask that you refrain from leaving the ranch and abide by all rules.

RISK CATEGORIES & RESPONSE

All Emergencies will follow the proper orders as listed:

1. Medical Emergency
• On-site first aid administered immediately.
If needed:
• Retreat team transports guest to nearest hospital/clinic - if needed
• Call 911 (emergency hotline).
• Notify emergency contact if hospitalization occurs.
• Log full incident report.
•
2. Natural Disaster (Flash Flooding Severe Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, Wildfires)
• Follow the location’s established evacuation plan.
• Retreat leader to keep local radio on or follow real-time news.
• Use WhatsApp or group messaging to keep all attendees updated- your WhatsApp group will be established prior to arrival and will be used throughout the retreat, so please be sure to download the app prior to arrival.
• Move to designated safe area if necessary.
• Contact local authorities if evacuation or shelter is required.

3. Lost Participant
• Immediate team search- by retreat leaders and staff, students must stay in place.
• Notify local police if not found within 1 hour.
• Share photo and description.

4. Crime or Assault
• Ensure participant is safe and supported.
• Contact local police immediately: 911.
• Accompany guest to file report (if they choose).
• Provide access to counseling or support.

5. Mental Health or Emotional Breakdown
• Provide private support space.
• Contact mental health professional (local or virtual).
• Adjust schedule if needed for guest care.
• In extreme cases, coordinate with insurance for early departure support.

III. COMMUNICATION PLAN
• WhatsApp group for attendees and staff (used for real-time updates).
• Emergency chain of command:
• 1st: Retreat Director - Jessica McKnight
• 2nd: Lead Assistant - Brittany Anderson
• 3rd: Local Host/Guide - Sharon -Guest Relations
• If the point of contact changes before or at any time during the retreat, you will be notified within the WhatsApp group.

  National Emergency Hotline
• 911 – Central line for police, ambulance, and fire

The Retreat Ranch
1643 Co Rd 403, Marble Falls, TX 78654
877-665-1939

INCIDENT REPORTING
For every incident:
We will:
• Fill out internal Incident Report Form
• Include time, date, persons involved, witnesses, actions taken.
• Retain for insurance and legal purposes.

POST-CRISIS SUPPORT
• Provide on-site or virtual counseling.
• Offer debrief session for attendees.
• Follow up with affected individuals 7–14 days later.
• Evaluate what can be improved and update crisis plan accordingly.