1-Remember:
- Print out the directions to the trailhead or camp for the driver. Electronics do not always work. Be Prepared with a backup.
- A copy of printed directions with each vehicle/driver/co-pilot.
- 2 copies of all permits, reservations, and contacts. A copy with 2 different folks.
- Trail maps, Topo maps – 2 copies with each Patrol.
- Everyone should have a First Aid Kit and Trauma Kit with each patrol.
- Equipment and cooking gear checked out.
- Extra toilet paper.
- Pack earlier than the night before departure… Day or 2 before.
- Purchase food earlier than the night before departure… Day or 2 before.
- Medical Forms and parental permission. Medical clearance. Medical Insurance information.
- Weather forecast, review (go/nogo) if the weather is iffy or worse.
- Trip partners ready. Mentally, equipment, packed, skill sets, physical conditioning, physically…
- Review/double-check who is responsible for what equipment.
- Scout Advancement materials, books, and forms.
- Special items like binoculars, bicycles, horse tack, star chart, camera, telescope, ham radio… (spare batteries & chargers)
- Home front taken care of in your absence. (pets, mail, security…)
- Duty Roster.
- Safety gear. (Bike helmets, life jackets (PFDs)…)
- RX Meds. OTC Meds.
- Repair kits and tools.
- Sharpen all knives. Inspect and oil all tools.
- Clean out the vehicles before leaving on the trip. And again before parking at trailhead/camp.
2- Etiquette Reminders:
- Leave No Trace, Take only pictures & memories ( and funny stories about your fellow campers)
- Be courteous to everyone
- Take breaks off of the trail
- Stop early when meeting horse riders. Step off to the lower side of the trail and stop talking. No sudden movements.
- No pets or pets always on a leash
- Pack out your trash and waste
- Do not feed the animals
- No bushwhacking or shortcuts – stay on the trail
- Mind your manners…Remember to use – Please, Thank You, and smile.
A: What did the freight elevator say?
B: I think I am coming down with something.
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C: Why did the city slicker not want to hunt elephants?
D: He afraid to carry the decoys.
3- Meeting Plans & Notes:
Camping and personal checklists.
Use “show & tell” to demo what & how to prepare for a trip.
Semper Paratus,
Gaither