RE: [Philmont]: Bear Bags

Several comments,
 First for Don who said:
> Easterners. Sigh. :-)
All I can say is: Westerners, Big Sigh.

We don't usually see the balance method here in the NORTHeast (where we
have way too many Black bears running around). They climb just fine and
usually get them down anyway because most folks can't get them high
enough, and when they do the bears just go up and knock them down.
 I for one like the Philmont method of using two ropes (bears aren't too
clear on the concept of redundancy) and we had no problems. I would hate
to see Philmont adapt canisters because I think everyone on the crew
would have to carry one in order to store 3 days of food. We are
beginning the "canister fight" up here and I am firmly agin it, but I
won't get into it here. Lets just say that whatever works for you should
suffice.

Now for Scott who asked about medium adventure:
 Just a few things off the top; I know that your Council has a good
connection with the ARC and runs a regular Wilderness First Aid course,
you should definitely look into this, it was a great suggestion Charlie
made. In addition, you are only a few hours from the Catskills, why not
check it out? The local Council there (Rip Van Winkle) offers several
special patch awards for doing certain peaks and trails. The trails in
that neck of the woods are a bit more challenging than some of the AT
sections, and you are looking for something different right? Also, have
you looked for a local climbing gym? Frequently these gyms offer
discounts for Scout Units. Check around your district and Council for
"local experts" that can provide "the next level" of training for
whatever they are interested in. Day hikes with a twist can also be fun,
arrange for an "accident" to occur on your chosen route and let the boys
deal with it. (Hey, why not bring 'em on a hike in the Catskills and
I'll have my older guys set up the 'accident'?) If you want more details
Scott, contact me direct at n2sa@bestweb.net .

 A final comment on the Wilderness First Aid:
 I strongly advise anyone headed for Philmont to consider one of these
courses. The Red Cross course that is required by Philmont as a minimum
covers second class first aid at best (direct pressure, elevate, and
call 911). If you really want to Be Prepared, take a good Wilderness
First Aid course by one of those groups mentioned in a previous post. I
took the SOLO course which I think is mostly available in the eastern
half of the country. Many of the others offered are just as good,
perhaps better. These courses teach patient evaluation, ongoing care
reading symptoms, and informed decision making. This is the kind of
training that can boost your confidence level and allow you to take
better care of your injured or ill crew members. I know Philmont has a
fantastic medical support structure, but you still need to keep your
patient in good shape until you get access to that system. These courses
can be pricey (about $150.00 or more for some), but they are well worth
the money. If you can't afford the time or the money, at the very least
let me recommend a book:" Wilderness First Aid" written by the National
Safety Council and Wilderness Medical Associates is a fantastic book
(You can skip the childbirth section for Philmont). I heartily suggest
you read it and study it, even if you are taking a course, it will give
you a better rounding of your education. I wish I had this book before I
went to Philmont, but we had an EMT on each crew so I was 'off the
hook'.

Happy Hiking,
 Tom

-------------------------------------------------------
Scouting E-mail Discussion Lists @ usscouts.org
Subscribe/Unsubscribe at http://usscouts.org/lists/
Listserv Commands at http://usscouts.org/lists/lc.asp
-------------------------------------------------------
Send listserv commands to: listserv@troop47.com
Send postings to: philmont@troop47.com
List FAQ found at: http://usscouts.org/lists/faq.asp
List Administrator: philmont_owner@troop47.com
-------------------------------------------------------
As you gather around this virtual campfire with fellow
Scouts and Scouters, do your best to be trustworthy,
loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient,
cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.
-------------------------------------------------------

 
Received on Mon Dec 27 17:07:07 2004