Safety So Far

 As has become the usual routine for this project, the improved schedule has already been altered as Chico's health and unexpected financial and family issues prevented me from filming on 3/12. I plan to film on 3/13, Monday, to make up the loss and get right to editing. The health issue preventing Chico from filming today, a brief bout of constipation, will not prevent filming tomorrow as medicine has already been purchased and given. However, this gives a good opportunity to outline the safety measures taken throughout the project and going forward in the project. At the beginning of the project, I discussed safety measures such as flashlights and contact information with Ariel. As we filmed in the woods, it's important to be safe from bugs, getting lost, and any wildlife we may encounter. I recommended using bug spray and wearing longer clothes and gym shoes to our actors to combat bugs and protect them from stray sticks and bushes that could easily scratch up those who are unprepared. Another safety measure for the woodsy filming were the aforementioned flashlights. I brought a flashlight to every filming session to ensure visibility in the woods, despite our early afternoon filming times. All actors and crew also carried their phones with them, in which we have a group chat, which takes care of getting lost should we have gotten separated for any reason. One downside of carrying phones is having them all on vibrate to prevent mid-take interruptions, but checking the phones was a quick way to ensure no call or message would be missed. The next safety measure included is consistent access to water and shade. While the weather was sometimes hot, we had ample shade from the trees surrounding us in the nature trail. Not to mention, water fountains and a water bottle refill station was always nearby should any actors need a water break. These safety measures were similar to the ones applied to Chico, although with obvious alterations such as carrying a portable water bowl instead of taking water fountain breaks. Going forward, I plan to employ safety targeted more directly toward Chico as he will be the main actor. These measures include recovery breaks and careful planning. Recovery breaks are used to keep Chico engaged and prevent him from wearing too thin over the filming session. This was something I adapted from Chico's training. Careful planning is used to prevent putting Chico in potentially dangerous positions. His short stature and small body make him extra vulnerable to getting hurt, so I ensure there's no way that could happen. This way, throughout the project everyone was kept safe and healthy.