Welcome to Troop 525! You scouting future will be a great adventure, you will learn a lot of cool stuff and most of all you will have fun.
Troop 525 operates on 5 basic Rules.
1. Have Fun!
2. The Scout Oath
3. Have Fun!
4. The Scout Law
5. Have Fun!
Think of these five rules and our troop as a really great triple decker grilled cheese sandwich. Rules 1, 3 and 5 are the bread and rules 2 and 4 are the cheese and all the members of this troop working together as a team are the heat. Its like any other sandwich without heat but when you crank up the heat the whole thing melts together into a really great treat. Its up to you to participate and become a member of this team.
It is through this team that you will further develop personal character and self-reliance that will support you through life.
We are a "Challenge by Choice" troop, we provide the Challenge and you make the Choice to accept it. It is up to you to ask questions, plan your progress through rank advancement, get help from other Scouts and Adult Leaders and be prepared at all times.
Do your best to pay attention during the meetings to find out about upcoming activities and know in advance whether you can attend troop activities and sign-up for those activities at the troop meetings.
We are all expected to follow the Oath, Law, Motto, Slogan and Outdoor Code as established by the Boy Scouts of America.
As a Scout in Troop 525 you will be required to show respect at all times and you are expected to conduct yourself in a Boy Scout manner at all times.
Your parents are responsible to support you, encourage you, review the troop calendar with you to plan activities, fill out the required forms, make sure you are picked up on time from all events and participate when able.
Your first order of business after visiting our troop and handing in your application is to purchase "The Boy Scout Handbook" and to put your name in it. This is a great resource to advancement in the troop. It is up to you to bring this book to all meetings until you have earned the rank of First Class. Do not ever lose this book! READ THE BOOK!
Make sure your parents fill out Part A and B of the BSA Medical Release Forms right away. You need to hand those forms into your Scoutmaster in order to participate in the troop. Part C will be required to participate in a multi-day activity and to go to summer camp.
Here is the link to download the Medical Forms and answer any questions you may have:
BSA Health and Safety
Next, read the "How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide" pamphlet with your parents that is in the front of your new handbook and complete the exercises.
Now you are ready to work with your troop Guides to become a Scouter and start your journey!
"Challenge and Opportunity" awaits!
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Friday, September 14, 2012
The Boy Scout Uniform
The uniform makes the Scout Troop visible as a positive youth image in the community. Uniforms build team spirit in your patrol and troop.
The Scoutmaster and SPL will designate what uniform is appropriate for each event.
Class A Uniform
BSA Uniform Guide and Price List
BSA Uniform Inspection and Insignia Placement
Class C Uniform
Class A Uniforms and other Scouting Stuff can be purchased at The Gold Dust Scout Shop (see Resources Post).
Class C T-Shirts available in Cotton or Wicking Style and Hoodie Sweat Jackets can be purchased thru the troop. Inquire during the troop meetings.
The Scoutmaster and SPL will designate what uniform is appropriate for each event.
Class A Uniform
- BSA Handbook
- Pen
- Scout Shirt with appropriate insignia
- Scout Pants (long, convertable or shorts)
- Scout Socks
- Scout Belt
- Centennial Boy Scout™ Uniform Cap
- Neckercheif and Slide
- BSA Merit Badge Sash (optional)
BSA Uniform Guide and Price List
BSA Uniform Inspection and Insignia Placement
Class C Uniform
- "Pride of Troop 525" T-Shirt
- Pants appropriate to the event
- Footwear appropriate to the event
Class A Uniforms and other Scouting Stuff can be purchased at The Gold Dust Scout Shop (see Resources Post).
Class C T-Shirts available in Cotton or Wicking Style and Hoodie Sweat Jackets can be purchased thru the troop. Inquire during the troop meetings.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Resources
These resources will help you start to assemble the gear for your scout. Shop around for the best deals, talk to the adults in the troop as to where they shop. There are plenty of brand alternatives out there at substancial discounts.
I encourage the parents of the troop to get togeather and pass down outgrown items that are still in good shape to scouts that can still wear them.
Here is a partial list of where we shop:
Gold Dust Scout Shop
4031 Technology Drive, Modesto, CA 95356
(209) 543-9700
This is the official Scout Store for the Greater Yosemite Council. Purchase your Handbook, Class A Uniform, Merit Badge Books and a great variety of Camping and Scouting related stuff.
If you would like to purchase items online here is the link
Boy Scouts of America - Official Catalog
REI
There are several locations close to Tracy. Brentwood, Dublin and Stockton are the closest.
This is a great place for top brands of outdoor clothing and gear. They have a great 100% satisfaction guarantee policy. Make sure to shop the outlet and clearances for the best discounts. Ask about thier lifetime membership for yearly rebates on purchases.
REI - Recreational Equipment, Inc.
Sunrise Mountain Sports
2455 Railroad Ave.
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 447-8330
A great local resource for top brands of outdoor clothing and gear. They have an extensive selection of gear for canoeing and kayaking. Make sure to ask for the Boy Scout Discount.
Sunrise Mountain Sports
I encourage the parents of the troop to get togeather and pass down outgrown items that are still in good shape to scouts that can still wear them.
Here is a partial list of where we shop:
Gold Dust Scout Shop
4031 Technology Drive, Modesto, CA 95356
(209) 543-9700
This is the official Scout Store for the Greater Yosemite Council. Purchase your Handbook, Class A Uniform, Merit Badge Books and a great variety of Camping and Scouting related stuff.
If you would like to purchase items online here is the link
Boy Scouts of America - Official Catalog
REI
There are several locations close to Tracy. Brentwood, Dublin and Stockton are the closest.
This is a great place for top brands of outdoor clothing and gear. They have a great 100% satisfaction guarantee policy. Make sure to shop the outlet and clearances for the best discounts. Ask about thier lifetime membership for yearly rebates on purchases.
REI - Recreational Equipment, Inc.
Sunrise Mountain Sports
2455 Railroad Ave.
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 447-8330
A great local resource for top brands of outdoor clothing and gear. They have an extensive selection of gear for canoeing and kayaking. Make sure to ask for the Boy Scout Discount.
Sunrise Mountain Sports
Dom's Outdoor Outfitters, Inc.
1870 First Street, Livermore CA 94550
(925)447-9629
Another great local resource for outdoor clothing and gear. The is also a small selection of Official BSA Uniform pants, shirts and socks and Merit Badge Books. Make sure to ask for the Boy Scout Discount.
Campmor
This online only resource provides a great selection of camping gear, clothing
and outdoor equipment at low prices.
Dont forget stores like Wal-Mart, Target, and Sports Authority as well.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Required Equipment for Your First Camp Out
This list includes the minimum gear you will need to go on your first camp out with the troop.
Please keep backpacking in mind when you are shoping for these items. Get the lightest weight option that you can afford. Always consult with the adult leaders before you purchase the big ticket items.
The Troop will make every effort to make sure ALL Scouts have an opportunity to attend an event. If you cannot aquire the necessary gear please contact your Scoutmaster. A lot of us have extra gear to loan and hand me downs available to outfit your Scout. The Troop storage has some items available as well.
Remember to mark your name on ALL of your belongings with a Sharpie!
We use a cheap large duffel bag from Target or WalMart to carry everything in for car camping trips.
Water Bottles - 2 each - 32 oz. Wide mouth Nalgene Water Bottles, BPA Free. You will need to bring these filled with water on every event that you attend!
You can also re-use a 1 liter empty plastic Gatorade bottle. They are lightweight and strong. Make sure to bring 2 of them!
Sleeping Bag - If you have one that you used in Cub Scouts or Family camping and it is at least rated as a 3-season (15 deg F - 32 deg F) you can use it for now. If you need to purchase a new sleeping bag it is best to find something that will be suitable for backpacking. You should look for the lightest weight (under 4 lbs) synthetic, mummy style bag you can afford rated at 20 deg F.
A troop favorite is the North Face Cats Meow.
It weighs 2 lbs 12 oz and is rated at 20 deg F.
If you look around you can usually find it on sale for under $189.00.
With proper care this bag will last your scouting career and can be used on all troop outings, Snow Camping, Backpacking and Canoeing.
Sleeping Pad - Something to sleep on. Self-inflating or Closed Cell Foam pad. You can spend anywhere from $20.00 to $150.00 in this category.
A popular pad with the scouts is the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol accordion-style design that lies flat instantly and folds up.
Tent - Not required initially for your first camp out but I feel we should start to discuss it here. Tent options will be discussed in more detail later.
Before you run out and purchase a tent you should have some discussion with the adult leaders about this subject. The troop has some tents that may be used but your scout must let the Quartermaster know before the campout or he can buddy up with someone that already has a tent.
A lot of scouts have the REI Camp Dome 2. It is durable, trustworthy, a cinch to pitch and has held up in the wind and rain. It can be shared by two scouts for backpacking by one scout carring the poles and fly and the other carring the body and stakes. We purchased the foot print to help extend the life of the tent but a cheap 5x7 tarp will work as well.
Flashlight - Small, Cheap AA Type found at any store. These normally get lost in the beginning so don't spend a lot of money here. As they do more camping and backpacking with the troop you may want to look into Headlamps as an option.
Basic Mess Kit - Knife, Fork, Spoon, Bowl and Plate. Basically your needs are determined by what you are going to cook and eat. Throw away paper and plastic work great. Keep it simple.
A good choice might be the GSI® Seven Piece Cascadian Table Set available at the Scout Shop for under $10.00 or the old alum style that you might have had. Dont be supprised if it stays at home once they start backpacking. More on that later.
Personal Hygene - Toothbrush and Toothpaste, Deoderant, Individual Singles Wet Ones, and whatever personal medication your scout may need.
We purchase travel size of these items at the grocery store and keep in a gallon size zip lock bag.
Please keep backpacking in mind when you are shoping for these items. Get the lightest weight option that you can afford. Always consult with the adult leaders before you purchase the big ticket items.
The Troop will make every effort to make sure ALL Scouts have an opportunity to attend an event. If you cannot aquire the necessary gear please contact your Scoutmaster. A lot of us have extra gear to loan and hand me downs available to outfit your Scout. The Troop storage has some items available as well.
Remember to mark your name on ALL of your belongings with a Sharpie!
We use a cheap large duffel bag from Target or WalMart to carry everything in for car camping trips.
Water Bottles - 2 each - 32 oz. Wide mouth Nalgene Water Bottles, BPA Free. You will need to bring these filled with water on every event that you attend! You can also re-use a 1 liter empty plastic Gatorade bottle. They are lightweight and strong. Make sure to bring 2 of them!
Sleeping Bag - If you have one that you used in Cub Scouts or Family camping and it is at least rated as a 3-season (15 deg F - 32 deg F) you can use it for now. If you need to purchase a new sleeping bag it is best to find something that will be suitable for backpacking. You should look for the lightest weight (under 4 lbs) synthetic, mummy style bag you can afford rated at 20 deg F.
A troop favorite is the North Face Cats Meow. It weighs 2 lbs 12 oz and is rated at 20 deg F.
If you look around you can usually find it on sale for under $189.00.
With proper care this bag will last your scouting career and can be used on all troop outings, Snow Camping, Backpacking and Canoeing.
Sleeping Pad - Something to sleep on. Self-inflating or Closed Cell Foam pad. You can spend anywhere from $20.00 to $150.00 in this category.
A popular pad with the scouts is the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol accordion-style design that lies flat instantly and folds up.
Tent - Not required initially for your first camp out but I feel we should start to discuss it here. Tent options will be discussed in more detail later.
Before you run out and purchase a tent you should have some discussion with the adult leaders about this subject. The troop has some tents that may be used but your scout must let the Quartermaster know before the campout or he can buddy up with someone that already has a tent.
A lot of scouts have the REI Camp Dome 2. It is durable, trustworthy, a cinch to pitch and has held up in the wind and rain. It can be shared by two scouts for backpacking by one scout carring the poles and fly and the other carring the body and stakes. We purchased the foot print to help extend the life of the tent but a cheap 5x7 tarp will work as well.
Flashlight - Small, Cheap AA Type found at any store. These normally get lost in the beginning so don't spend a lot of money here. As they do more camping and backpacking with the troop you may want to look into Headlamps as an option.
Basic Mess Kit - Knife, Fork, Spoon, Bowl and Plate. Basically your needs are determined by what you are going to cook and eat. Throw away paper and plastic work great. Keep it simple.
A good choice might be the GSI® Seven Piece Cascadian Table Set available at the Scout Shop for under $10.00 or the old alum style that you might have had. Dont be supprised if it stays at home once they start backpacking. More on that later.Personal Hygene - Toothbrush and Toothpaste, Deoderant, Individual Singles Wet Ones, and whatever personal medication your scout may need.
We purchase travel size of these items at the grocery store and keep in a gallon size zip lock bag.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
The 10 Essentials
Troop 525 teaches self-reliance in the outdoors and lives by the Boy Scout Motto "Be Prepared". This is a discussion of the 10 Essentials found in your Boy Scout Handbook and required by this troop to be with you on every outing. These items could save your life.
Merriam-Webster defines Essential as:
a: of the utmost importance :basic, indispensable, necessary
1. Pocketknife
2. First-aid Kit
3. Extra Clothing
4. Rain Gear
5. Water Bottle
6. Flashlight
7. Trail Food
8. Matches and Fire Starter
9. Sun Protection
10. Map and Compass
Insect Repellent and a Whistle are to be considered a part of this list depending on the type of outing we are planning.
1. Pocketknife (Must have and carry TotinChip)
A small folding type or Multi tool. A simple Swiss Army knife is a wonderful bridging gift for your new scout.
2. First-aid Kit (Requirement for Second Class)
Made up of Bandages, 3x3 Gauze pads, Adhesive tape, Moleskin, Antiseptic wipes and Latex gloves. You can put this together at home and keep in a small zip lock bag or start with a basic Adventure Medical Personal Kit available at most stores.
Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight / Watertight .3
3. Extra Clothing
Dress in layers and bring one more layer than what you think you will need. The mountains can get hot in the day and very cold at night and may storm at any time. More discussion on clothing to follow.
4. Rain Gear
A minimum of a emergency rain poncho is required. Lightweight windproof / waterproof jackets and pants like the Marmot Precip series are a blessing! A couple of 33gal garbage bags can also be used in an emergency and are great to cover your backpack.
5. Water Bottles
Staying properly hydrated is key to existing outdoors. Every Scout must carry 2 liters of water. Many adult leaders carry pumps to refill your scouts bottles on the trail.
6. Flashlight
Small AA type with extra batteries. You may need to find your way in the dark or use as a signal.
7. Trail Food
Food is energy. Always carry an extra meal. You never know when you will be out longer than anticipated. Healthy, non-perishable and calorie dense is the best. More discussion on food to follow.
8. Matches and Fire Starter (must have and carry FiremChit)
Being able to start a fire can ward off Hypothermia and can be used as a signal if you are lost.
9. Sun Protection
This includes a wide brim hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm. A light long sleeve hiking shirt and convertible pants help in sun protection as well as keep the mosquito's off your skin.
10. Map and Compass (Requirement for Second Class)
A map not only tells where you are and how far you have to go, it can help you find campsites, water, and an emergency exit route in case of an accident. A compass helps you find your way through unfamiliar terrain. Purchase a baseplate compass that can be used with a map.
11. Insect Repellant
Scouts can only use 30% DEET or less. Small travel size in a seprate zip lock bag. Dont pack the 2lb spray can you used family camping.
12. Whistle
Most backpacks have whistles built into the straps. This is an essential tool to help locate a person that is seprated from the group.
13. Duct Tape
Nuff Said! A couple of wraps around a water bottle or hiking pole is all you need.
Merriam-Webster defines Essential as:
a: of the utmost importance :basic, indispensable, necessary
1. Pocketknife
2. First-aid Kit
3. Extra Clothing
4. Rain Gear
5. Water Bottle
6. Flashlight
7. Trail Food
8. Matches and Fire Starter
9. Sun Protection
10. Map and Compass
Insect Repellent and a Whistle are to be considered a part of this list depending on the type of outing we are planning.
1. Pocketknife (Must have and carry TotinChip)
A small folding type or Multi tool. A simple Swiss Army knife is a wonderful bridging gift for your new scout.
2. First-aid Kit (Requirement for Second Class)
Made up of Bandages, 3x3 Gauze pads, Adhesive tape, Moleskin, Antiseptic wipes and Latex gloves. You can put this together at home and keep in a small zip lock bag or start with a basic Adventure Medical Personal Kit available at most stores.
Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight / Watertight .3
3. Extra Clothing
Dress in layers and bring one more layer than what you think you will need. The mountains can get hot in the day and very cold at night and may storm at any time. More discussion on clothing to follow.
4. Rain Gear
A minimum of a emergency rain poncho is required. Lightweight windproof / waterproof jackets and pants like the Marmot Precip series are a blessing! A couple of 33gal garbage bags can also be used in an emergency and are great to cover your backpack.
5. Water Bottles
Staying properly hydrated is key to existing outdoors. Every Scout must carry 2 liters of water. Many adult leaders carry pumps to refill your scouts bottles on the trail.
6. Flashlight
Small AA type with extra batteries. You may need to find your way in the dark or use as a signal.
7. Trail Food
Food is energy. Always carry an extra meal. You never know when you will be out longer than anticipated. Healthy, non-perishable and calorie dense is the best. More discussion on food to follow.
8. Matches and Fire Starter (must have and carry FiremChit)
Being able to start a fire can ward off Hypothermia and can be used as a signal if you are lost.
9. Sun Protection
This includes a wide brim hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm. A light long sleeve hiking shirt and convertible pants help in sun protection as well as keep the mosquito's off your skin.
10. Map and Compass (Requirement for Second Class)
A map not only tells where you are and how far you have to go, it can help you find campsites, water, and an emergency exit route in case of an accident. A compass helps you find your way through unfamiliar terrain. Purchase a baseplate compass that can be used with a map.
11. Insect Repellant
Scouts can only use 30% DEET or less. Small travel size in a seprate zip lock bag. Dont pack the 2lb spray can you used family camping.
12. Whistle
Most backpacks have whistles built into the straps. This is an essential tool to help locate a person that is seprated from the group.
13. Duct Tape
Nuff Said! A couple of wraps around a water bottle or hiking pole is all you need.
First Aid
Troop 525 expects every Scout to carry a personal First Aid Kit with him on all activities. Scouting teaches basic first aid skills in advancement for rank and in every outdoor related merit badge. Preparing a personal first aid kit is also a requirement for Second Class.
The following list is from the Boy Scout Handbook. These items are easy to obtain and will all fit in a zip lock sandwich bag.
6 ea - Adhesive Bandages
2 ea - Sterile Gauze Pads, 3 x 3 inch
1 ea - Adhesive Tape, small roll
1 ea - Moleskin, 3 x 6 inch
1 ea - Soap, small bar ( I use sanitizing hand gel, travel size or sanitizing hand wipes )
1 ea - Antiseptic, small tube ( I use antiseptic wipes 3 ea )
1 ea - Sissors ( look on your Swiss Army Knife )
1 ea - Laytex Gloves, pair
1 ea - CPR Mouth Barrier
1 ea - Eye Protection ( I already have my sunglasses on )
1 ea - Pencil and Paper ( I use a golf pencil and a couple pieces of scrap paper )
This is a basic list that is very light to carry and will allow you to treat scratches, blisters and minor injuries.
I also encourage CPR certification for you and your scout. Look for anouncements at the troop meeting for the next CPR class usually held at the beginning of each year.
The following list is from the Boy Scout Handbook. These items are easy to obtain and will all fit in a zip lock sandwich bag.
6 ea - Adhesive Bandages
2 ea - Sterile Gauze Pads, 3 x 3 inch
1 ea - Adhesive Tape, small roll
1 ea - Moleskin, 3 x 6 inch
1 ea - Soap, small bar ( I use sanitizing hand gel, travel size or sanitizing hand wipes )
1 ea - Antiseptic, small tube ( I use antiseptic wipes 3 ea )
1 ea - Sissors ( look on your Swiss Army Knife )
1 ea - Laytex Gloves, pair
1 ea - CPR Mouth Barrier
1 ea - Eye Protection ( I already have my sunglasses on )
1 ea - Pencil and Paper ( I use a golf pencil and a couple pieces of scrap paper )
This is a basic list that is very light to carry and will allow you to treat scratches, blisters and minor injuries.
I also encourage CPR certification for you and your scout. Look for anouncements at the troop meeting for the next CPR class usually held at the beginning of each year.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Clothing for the Outdoors
Being comfortable in the outdoors will make or break your scouting experience. Conditions can go from hot to cold, windy and raining in a matter of minutes on the trail. No matter our event, sweating during a long days hike, digging a snow cave to sleep in or canoeing and swimming we need be properly clothed for all of these extremes.
Troop 525 advocates dressing in layers! Layers can be added and subtracted during the day to keep your core temperature in check and stay comfortable.
In the outdoors, cotton is NOT your friend. It gets wet, stays wet, gets heavy when wet, and never dries. Synthetic materials are lighter and dry faster.
The basic layering system consists of three layers:
Examples of Base Layer Clothing are:
Examples of Insulation Layer Clothing are:
Examples of Outer Layer Clothing are:
Here is a list of the clothing your scout needs for most outings other than snow camping. The amount and type will vary depending on the length, type of the trip and the weather.
Troop 525 advocates dressing in layers! Layers can be added and subtracted during the day to keep your core temperature in check and stay comfortable.
In the outdoors, cotton is NOT your friend. It gets wet, stays wet, gets heavy when wet, and never dries. Synthetic materials are lighter and dry faster.
The basic layering system consists of three layers:
- Base Layer
- Insulation Layer
- Outer Layer
Examples of Base Layer Clothing are:
- Shirts (long sleeve or short sleeve)
- Boxer Briefs (under ware)
- Long under ware
- Socks
Examples of Insulation Layer Clothing are:
- Shirts
- Jackets
- Pants
Examples of Outer Layer Clothing are:
- Wind and Rain Jackets and pants
- Shoes and Boots
Here is a list of the clothing your scout needs for most outings other than snow camping. The amount and type will vary depending on the length, type of the trip and the weather.
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Sunday, September 9, 2012
Hydration
Proper hydration in all of our activities is a top priority for Troop 525. All Scouts are taught about the prevention, symptoms, signs and treatment of dehydration in every Merit Badge they earn and reinforced throughout every event they attend.
We are an adventurous Troop! Water is our life blood! Drink More Water!
EVERY Scout is to bring 2 each 1 liter bottles of water with them on EVERY event they attend. Whether at our local camp outs, paddling down the river, camping in the snow or backpacking in the mountains.
We prefer your new Scout start with bottles of water in lu of a bladder system until they learn about staying properly hydrated. With bottles leaders can see how much water they are consuming or not consuming as opposed to a bladder being hidden in a pack. They are also easier to refill on the trail and are less likely to leak onto their packed items. Once your scout has gained some experience he is free to choose what ever hydration system he prefers.
Water Bottles - 2 each - 32 oz. Wide mouth Nalgene Water Bottles, BPA Free. You will need to bring these filled with water on every event that you attend!
You can also re-use a 1 liter empty plastic Gatorade bottle. They are lightweight and strong. Make sure to bring 2 of them!
Electrolyte-Replacement - Single powder packets of Gatorade are easy to pack. I recommend these as a supplement to water not a replacement for water.
Water Purification - Not required for new Scouts! Leaders and older Scouts have these and will make sure everyone in the troop is supplied with safe water to drink during all outings.
I will discuss the different types of water purification systems in a later post.
We are an adventurous Troop! Water is our life blood! Drink More Water!
EVERY Scout is to bring 2 each 1 liter bottles of water with them on EVERY event they attend. Whether at our local camp outs, paddling down the river, camping in the snow or backpacking in the mountains.
We prefer your new Scout start with bottles of water in lu of a bladder system until they learn about staying properly hydrated. With bottles leaders can see how much water they are consuming or not consuming as opposed to a bladder being hidden in a pack. They are also easier to refill on the trail and are less likely to leak onto their packed items. Once your scout has gained some experience he is free to choose what ever hydration system he prefers.
Water Bottles - 2 each - 32 oz. Wide mouth Nalgene Water Bottles, BPA Free. You will need to bring these filled with water on every event that you attend!
You can also re-use a 1 liter empty plastic Gatorade bottle. They are lightweight and strong. Make sure to bring 2 of them!
Electrolyte-Replacement - Single powder packets of Gatorade are easy to pack. I recommend these as a supplement to water not a replacement for water.
Water Purification - Not required for new Scouts! Leaders and older Scouts have these and will make sure everyone in the troop is supplied with safe water to drink during all outings.
I will discuss the different types of water purification systems in a later post.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Food
Food is energy! We expend a lot of calories in our activities and proper nutrition fuels our tanks and keeps us going. Food is largely a choice of each individual and is dependent on the activity and the duration of the activity. Food for car camping will be different than food for backpacking.
When your Scout is choosing food for camp outs and backpacking the most important thing is to pick food he likes to eat. DO NOT let his first 50 mile afoot be the testing ground for new food. I recommend that you shop around for different foods purchase them, prepare them and try them at home. Make sure they taste good, have a high calorie to weight ratio, and are easy to prepare.
A few things to consider when meal planning:
Listed here are a few ideas of foods to start out with, the options are endless and what works for me will be different than what works for your Scout. I am limiting this list to backpacking style foods as foods for car camping are a lot easier to choose. This list is also the lazy list of foods that are easiest to prepare and only require boiling water. As your Scout gets experienced the sky is the limit.
Proper meal planning involves a balance of carbohydrates (energy sustaining), proteins (muscle building) and fats (energy storing). I like to munch continuously during the day (calorie drip) and try to replace as many calories as I can at dinner time.
Breakfast
Protein bars and Meal replacement bars
Instant Oatmeal
Pop-Tarts
Dehydrated Egg Meals
Cereal and Powdered Milk
Lunch
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Tuna Salad and Crackers
Salami and Hard Cheese
Tortillas
Flat Breads and Bagels
Dinner
Dehydrated Meals (I like Mountain House brand)
Ramen Soups
Instant potatoes and string cheese with bacon bits
Snacks
Granola and Snack bars
GORP - Good Old Raisins and Peanuts (Trail Mix)
Beef Jerky and Slim Jims
Rice Krispy Treats
Dried Fruits and Nuts
When your Scout is choosing food for camp outs and backpacking the most important thing is to pick food he likes to eat. DO NOT let his first 50 mile afoot be the testing ground for new food. I recommend that you shop around for different foods purchase them, prepare them and try them at home. Make sure they taste good, have a high calorie to weight ratio, and are easy to prepare.
A few things to consider when meal planning:
- What tools do I need to prepare this meal?
- Do I have food that will spoil if I don't keep it cold?
- Will I have to carry it on my back?
- How much garbage will I have to pack out with me?
- How will I keep my food away from critters and or bears?
- Am I planning for myself or is this camp out Patrol Style?
Listed here are a few ideas of foods to start out with, the options are endless and what works for me will be different than what works for your Scout. I am limiting this list to backpacking style foods as foods for car camping are a lot easier to choose. This list is also the lazy list of foods that are easiest to prepare and only require boiling water. As your Scout gets experienced the sky is the limit.
Proper meal planning involves a balance of carbohydrates (energy sustaining), proteins (muscle building) and fats (energy storing). I like to munch continuously during the day (calorie drip) and try to replace as many calories as I can at dinner time.
Breakfast
Protein bars and Meal replacement bars
Instant Oatmeal
Pop-Tarts
Dehydrated Egg Meals
Cereal and Powdered Milk
Lunch
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Tuna Salad and Crackers
Salami and Hard Cheese
Tortillas
Flat Breads and Bagels
Dinner
Dehydrated Meals (I like Mountain House brand)
Ramen Soups
Instant potatoes and string cheese with bacon bits
Snacks
Granola and Snack bars
GORP - Good Old Raisins and Peanuts (Trail Mix)
Beef Jerky and Slim Jims
Rice Krispy Treats
Dried Fruits and Nuts
Friday, September 7, 2012
Winter Snow Camping
Winter camping is great fun if you are prepared! Here are some thoughts to help you prepare:
You MUST have “Sorel Type” snow boots for winter camping.
One or more sleeping pads to insulate you from the ground. These need to be closed cell foam or insulated type.
Sleeping bag (mummy type) 20 deg rating minimum (Cats Meow). You can increase the temperature rating by combining 2 sleeping bags togeather provided you have enough room to sleep comfortably.
Some jumping jacks or a walk around camp will get your circulation moving and your metabolism going and warm you up before getting into the sleeping bag.
Clothing
Clothing for winter camping insulate and support your body
temperature. They need to retain the
heat produced by your body and at the same time remove excess moisture and heat
away from your skin.
Cotton holds water like sweat or snow and never dries. Wool or synthetic materials are preferred for
winter camping.
Since we are playing hard and working up a sweat even though
it is very cold outside, layering is key to winter camping. As you get hot you remove layers. As you get cold you add layers.
Three layers are recommended:
Layer 1 – Base layer, worn closest to the skin. A synthetic thermal long sleeve mid-weight
shirt is recommended.
Layer 2 – Insulation layer.
This layer helps to retain body heat.
A fleece long sleeve is recommended.
Layer 3 – Wind and Waterproof layer. This layer keeps the wind and rain/snow
out. A ski or snowboard jacket is with a
hood is recommended.
In times of extreme cold or during time of no activity, and
extra insulation may be necessary.
Additional items important in winter camping are:
A fleece or wool beanie; balaclava for your ears and neck; waterproof insulated gloves; and heavy wool socks and
water proof insulated boots. Tennis
shoes or Vans are not allowed in winter camping! You MUST have “Sorel Type” snow boots for winter camping.
Change of clothes
I cannot stress enough the importance of having at least 2 or
3 complete sets of dry clothes to change into, from your underwear to your
jacket and boots. When your activity
level drops you’ll need to put on dry, warmer clothing before you chill. The
wetter you are and the colder it is the more important it is to change your
clothes – all of them!
Don’t wait and get cold before you decide to change your
clothes.
Sleeping
Staying warm at night while you are winter camping is
crucial to a successful trip. Having a “winter-grade” sleeping bag, or using
two sleeping bags, is recommended.
Here are the components required to get a good night’s
sleep:
Waterproof Tarp (if you are sleeping in a snow cave)One or more sleeping pads to insulate you from the ground. These need to be closed cell foam or insulated type.
Sleeping bag (mummy type) 20 deg rating minimum (Cats Meow). You can increase the temperature rating by combining 2 sleeping bags togeather provided you have enough room to sleep comfortably.
Tips:
Put tomorrow’s clothes between your sleeping pad and your
sleeping bag.
Wear clean dry clothes to bed. Long underwear bottoms and tops, socks and a
beanie cap will add additional insulation in your sleeping bag. Make certain to sleep with your face outside
of your sleeping bag. Your breath contains a great deal of moisture that can
cause dampness to collect in the bag as you sleep. Avoid verheating at night. Being too warm
produces perspiration, so vent your bag if needed or take off your hat.
Keep a snack available for the middle of the night, so if
you do wake up cold you can replenish lost calories and warm back up again.
Preparing your body
Staying hydrated during winter camping is important. Your
body demands more water in the winter as your lungs lose moisture humidifying
and warming the dry, cold winter air.
Drink at least 2 liters per day during winter camping before sleeping.
Eat a hot, hearty meal for dinner. Your body will use this
fuel to keep you warm throughout the night.
Freeze dried meals are quick, easy, and hot.
Eating a high calorie, high fat content snack before bedtime
will give your body more fuel to help keep you warm. Proteins, such as cheese,
nuts, or grains, are better than simple sugars. Proteins release their energy
more slowly than sugars, keeping you warmer through the night.Some jumping jacks or a walk around camp will get your circulation moving and your metabolism going and warm you up before getting into the sleeping bag.
Go to the bathroom before bed.
Chemical heating packs (Handwarmers) work great for hands and feet. Layer
them between socks or gloves – never put them directly next to your skin.
Chemical heat packs usually last several hours.
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