Re: [Philmont]: 15 pax vans - Unsafe at any speed

Karen, I am Scouting Coordinator for a United Methodist Church (with a Cub
Scout pack, Boy Scout troop, Venture crew, and Girl Scout troop) that used to
have a 15 passenger van. It overturned while on a youth mission trip (MYF)
just a few years ago to the mountains of Kentucky. The good Lord was watching
over our youth as the van basically just fell over on its side while moving
at a relatively low speed on a curvy mountain road. Everyone was belted in
and no injuries occurred (Be Prepared). These vans are inherently unsafe when
loaded, particularly with weight in the rear. Our charter organization will
not allow use of 15 passenger vans...period.

Since that accident our Board of Trustees wisely decided to go with the
small shuttle bus design. It is similar to the airport shuttle buses and seats
less than 15 passengers. The wheel base is wider and the weight is more
evenly distributed. Drivers have to be trained and approved by the Board of
Trustees before using the vehicle.
 
                Yours in Scouting,
 
                Wade Dickens

-------------------------------------------------------
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 Sat Jan 28 20:42:21 2006