When you think about Scouts, you think about camping!
Moonlight campfires, the smell of pine trees and crackling leaves in the forest, eating gooey toasted marshmallows, swimming and splashing with your friends in a sparkling lake - these all might be reasons why you joined Scouting.
On these outdoor pages we've created just for you, we'll feature outdoor recipes, activity planning and camping skills, links to outdoor web sites, weather information and much more...everything you need to plan an exciting and safe adventure.
Plan An Outstanding Outdoor Adventure
What's the secret to an outstanding outdoor adventure?
It's no secret - it's all in the planning. Whether you're going on an overnighter, or setting out on a two-week canoe trip - plenty of advance preparation is your key to a safe, successful venture into the outdoors.
Do Your Research
Before you embark on any outdoor activity, know your participants' skills and abilities, and your proposed route. This increases your chances for a safe and enjoyable outing.
What
- What will we do when we get to our destination?
- What knowledge and skills will we need?
- What clothes, footwear or equipment will we need?
- What will we eat?
- What qualifications and experience do the leaders have?
- What are Scouting's policies for the outing?
- What permits and permission will we require?
- What are the skills and capabilities of the group?
- What experience does the group have?
- What is our emergency plan?
- What fears or reservations do the participants have?
- What will we sleep in?
- Will we be accessible by phone? What is the number?
- What is the weather forecast?
- What risks or hazards are we likely to encounter?
- What is our risk management plan?
Why
- Why are we going?
When
- When will the outing take place?
- When are leaders and participants available?
- When will we return home?
How
- How will we get there?
- How far will we travel?
- How long will we stay?
- How old will the participants be?
- How much will it cost?
Where
- Destination (including route)
- Nearest hospital
- Description of area (rocky, rough terrain, water, etc).
Who
- Participants
- Designated First Aider
- Roles and duties of individuals
When working with a new or inexperienced group, spend extra time doing research. Divide the group into smaller segments, giving each one different items to study. Once you've completed your research, you might produce a page describing the adventure. This information will help participants and their parents. You may also refer to it when you plan future adventures...in this way, you'll build up a file library of great planning information.
See you Outdoors!