As this is Scouting's greatest appeal, attention to small details
essential.
Training in most aspects can be given before Scout experiences first camp.
Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class Tests lead a child to become an efficient camper.
Most training can effectively be done through Patrol Leaders who should be given opportunities to train their Scouts before camp.
Well worth considering a "Troop Standard" test in relation to use of tools. Details as follows:
Hand Axe
- Demonstrate handling axe (e.g.. carrying, masking, handing to another person).
- Demonstrate use of sharpening stone and oiling of haft and head.
- Demonstrate correct methods of chopping. splitting, and sharpening picket.
- Name parts of axe and show working knowledge of Safety Rules.
Knife
- Demonstrate use in whittling.
- Clean, oil, and sharpen.
- Show Knowledge of Safety Rules.
Bushman's Saw
- How to carry and stow when not in use.
- Demonstrate use for crosscutting firewood.
- Show knowledge of Safety Rules.
Camp Kit
Issue standard list of personal kit requirements to Scouts.
Inspect before leaving for camp. Encourage avoidance of heavy, bulky additional kit. Damp is a Scout's worst enemy at camp.
Watch that non-waterproof kitbags, etc.., not left on the ground.
Also blankets, etc.., not left 'airing' after dew begins to fall. Good plan to have bedding in at lunchtime.
Encourage bare legs in camp, but not bare feet.
Use canvas shoes rather than leather apes which, once wet, are difficult to dry.
Rubber boots useful, but unhealthy if worn too long.
Blankets should be fluffy if possible.
Box Larder (Patrol Box)
Sleeping bags, when used with blankets, should be on top so that weight of blankets does not destroy insulation by compressing Down filling.
Encourage Scouts to make complete change of all clothing before going to bed.
Kit layout should be standardized in Patrol for morning inspection.
Not necessary to see everything every day.
Blankets, sleeping bags, pajamas, towels, face cloths, should be hanging on lines to air, if weather permits, and not stowed military fashion on groundsheet.
Camp dress should be encouraged in camp and it should
provide protection against sunburn.
Common camp ailments of- arise from self neglect. Damp clothing and bedding, or badly-made beds cause colds, whilst over-exposure causes sun burning and un-ventilated tents, over-eating and 'latrine shyness' cause headaches.
Gadgets
To maintain Scout's interest and develop ingenuity after he has mastered essential gadgets and understands the principle of making most important gadgets first, use the following ideas:
Camp loom, bodger's lathe, camp shower bath, self opening gates, automatic fire stokers, clothes-drying crinolines, etc.
Fires and Fireplaces
Hunter's or Trench Fire
Type depends on purpose. Use bare patch of earth in preference to removing turf.
Turf sods should be kept at least 5 inches thick otherwise grass will not live. Keep cut turf watered.
Remove all embers, tins, etc.., when replacing turf.
Altar fireplaces have advantage over ground level fires - especially at permanent sites. Height should suit Scouts; safer too low than too high. Firewood stock essential before commencing cooking.
Good activity to learn burning qualities of woods. This is natural result of tree recognition.
See Also:
Knife, Saw, Axe
Fireplaces & Fire Wood
Ernest Seton's Birch Bark Roll
Traditional
Training Handbook
©2003 Baden-Powell Scouts Association
