Outdoor activities are attractive to many people because they have an element of excitement due to the risks involved. Groups like the Duke Of Edinburgh Award often talk about the growth people can achieve from undertaking the challenge of being outdoors. To avoid confusion it is worth defining the differences in the terms that are often used.
Risk– involves uncertainty about the effects/implications of an activity. It is the likelihood of of an event happening. eg- the risk of shark attack is increased if a swimmer is in the water at dawn or dusk or in murky waters.
Challenge– An activity that can push an individual to go beyond their comfort zone and expand capabilities. eg- abseiling down a cliff. For many people this is extremely uncomfortable or scary but there is a reward and sense of accomplishment when finished.
Hazards– Are the objects or activities that can cause harm. eg- a rip at a beach or a cliff face.
Dangers– Similar to risk in that something like a hazard becomes dangerous if someone is actively exposed to it. eg- a cliff face is only dangerous if a person is on the edge of it.
Misadventure– An accident caused by exposure to hazards or dangers.