Department of Education

CALABRZON IV-A
District of Los Baños
Los Baños Senior High School
Los Baños, Laguna

Los Baños Senior High School Outdoor Recreation

Purok 6 San Antonio Los Baños, Laguna Learner’s Guide Booklet

NOT FOR SALE

Prepared by

Vincent Jose C. Rivera

NOT FOR SALE

 ✓ Rental for Gadgets or water. Equipment
OUTDOOR RECREATION ✓ Lodging (if needed)
Outdoor Recreation is organized activities where interaction between man and an ✓ Permit Fees
element of nature is present. ✓ Professional Guides
Let’s breakdown the ideas to have a common understanding of the term: Guides are also required – if not recommended – for some activities such as
➢ RECREATION is derived from the Latin term “recreare” which means to be refreshed. spelunking, whitewater rafting/ canoeing or kayaking, and even trekking or hiking. Professional
Choices of recreation vary from person to person. What makes you happy may not be fees are also paid to the guides.
so for others. Therefore, recreational activities depend on your interests, pursuits, and
needs which may be reflective of your beliefs and level of gratification. For example. It is very helpful to research (one way through the Internet) for arrangements and
A natural park may serve as a bonding place for a family to have a picnic, a great fitness travel guides. Travel blogs are very helpful in giving tips on how to reach certain places and in
area for a jogger, and a place to commune with nature or to meditate for others. obtaining other relevant and important information. Many more popular outdoor recreation
➢ The OUTDOORS in a broad sense is a space outside an enclosed area. Narrowing it sites also have their own website, where contact numbers or email addresses are posted. This
down, outdoors, as used in this discussion, includes the natural environment and way you can make inquiries by call or email of your planned outdoor activity.
resources which comprises the land, water, wildlife, vegetation, open space, and
scenery. The outdoors may be in its most natural state or “semi-natural” state, which
is a state where it had gone through some human modification but had retained its
natural features.
The Different Outdoor Recreational Activities
Land Water Air
Picnic Swimming Parasailing
Camping Snorkeling Skydiving
Trekking/Hiking Scuba Diving Paragliding
Backpacking Surfing Base Jumping
Orienteering Canoeing
Bird-watching Kayaking
Mountain Biking Whitewater Rafting
Mountaineering Sailing
Rock Climbing Fishing
Canyoneering Bamboo Rafting

BENEFITS OF OUTDOOR RECREATION

FUN and PLEASURE are perhaps the immediate answers of the majority who have
experienced outdoor activities. However, there is more to it than just the fun. Studies have
shown that being close to the natural environment, is healthy. Aside from the fresh air and the
amazing sight of nature, the outdoors has positive effects on the general wellness of an
individual most especially if it is done in regularity. Wellness encompasses the general state of
a person (physical, social, psycho-emotional, and spiritual) and in the end, contribute to a
better quality of life.

Physical Health Benefits

Being in the outdoors prevents a person from having a sedentary life. It allows people
to move, whether by walking, running, swimming, biking, paddling, etc. With the surge of
electronic gadgets, more and more people (children and adults alike) are unconsciously getting
stuck with a sedentary life, contented with playing with their computer games, tablets, or
Logistics cellphones, or watching television for hours. Green Space is now called “screen space.” The
✓ When done as a school or class activity, it is a requirement that: outdoors is great destruction from these gadgets. It helps people to be on the move. It gets
✓ The scope of the activity is clearly outlined; their hearts pumping and their bigger muscles at work. Such movement expends energy,
✓ The approval of the school must be sought; and promotes cardiovascular and muscular fitness, and improves the function of the immune
✓ Written parental consent is taken for each participant of minor age. system. In fact, the physical activities done i9n outdoor recreation may range from average to
✓ Equipment list and checking of equipment rigorous levels of intensity. Many people have documented the benefits of staying active that
✓ A list of essential things to bring must be given to participants include reduced obesity, reduced risk of disease, enhanced immune system, and increased life
✓ Transportation (to and from the site such as land transportation and boat in case it is expectancy.
located on another island or somewhere in sea, tricycle or other local vehicles)
✓ Food and Menu preparation Psycho-Emotional Benefits
✓ Application for permits and fees Engaging in outdoor recreational activities helps people to rest, relax, de-stress or
• Some outdoor activities in the Philippines would require permits to be able to proceed unwind, and feel revitalized. In fact, some research showed that too much artificial stimulation
with the activity. Trekking in Mt. Kanlaon, Mt. Apo, and Mt. Banahaw are among those and time spent in purely human environments can cause exhaustion and loss of vitality and
that need one. Diving at the Tubbahata Reefs also needs a permit for entry. For all health (Katcher & Baeck, 1987; Stilgoe, 2001).
permits, Fees are required. Nature has its own way of distracting a stressed mind and calming it down. As Kuo and
• Other trekking sites do not require permits but registration to the local tourism office Sullivan (2001) explained it, “natural setting and stimuli such as landscape and animals seem
or local government office is a requirement and some fees have to be paid. to effortlessly engage our attention, allowing us to extend without paying attention.” This
Registration is usually required by the government to know who and where the tourist alone helps reduce stress and prevent some cases of depression and anxiety.
is going. Being outdoors also improves our self-esteem, confidence, and creativity. There is a
✓ Lodging reservations when needed (for instance a transit place before going to the actual sense of “feeling good” whenever one achieves a goal in a particular activity such as reaching
site or for extended stay) a peak of a mountain or learning a skill of paddling in canoeing.
✓ Coordination with on-site facilitator or guide and with local tourism office or government
unit to plan for contingency or emergency. Social Benefits
Outdoor activities are ways for families to be closer. They can be a “family-bonding
Budget activity” as each family member participates in an activity, achieves a common goal, and goes
Every activity will be requiring costs that will cover: through the same experience.
✓ Transportation Spending time outdoors also allows you to meet and interact with others who share
Most, if not all, outdoor recreational activities are done outside of the city. This will the same passion for outdoor recreation. Participating in a team will help form a lasting
entail traveling to the planned location. friendship and develop a community.
Traveling can be either e by bringing own vehicle or by using the public transportation. Economic Benefits
It also means knowing ahead of time the routes leading to the location and it is also best to People who have a relaxed body and mind tend to be more productive at work. This
study the terrain, the environment, etc., in case the participants would need to walk. translates to efficiency in the workplace.
Traveling with own Vehicles will include costs for gas and toll fees. In some places, “It’s more fun in the Philippines” as the Department of Tourism slogan goes. Indeed,
parking fees may be charged too. it is more fun as well for everyone involved in ecotourism activities in the Philippines. It has
When traveling using public transportation, costs may include: been rewarding for the local folks as ecotourism in the country created jobs and other
• Plane ticket and airport taxes if you are flying to a more distant location economic activities which have, one way or another, contributed to our economic growth.
• Bus ticket for land travel
• Fares for Tricycle or Jeepney Spiritual Benefits
• Boat fares for those going to islands, which may include insurance fees Positive outdoor experiences can stir up spiritual values. Being one with nature brings
Food can be bought individually or be prepared as a group wherein cost can be divided among certain calmness within a person. It strengthens the individual as it heals, rejuvenate, and
the participants. For hiking and trekking, freeze-dried meals, and energy food are available but soothes the body and soul. It also allows an individual to discover his/her inner spirit and sense
may be costlier. However, such luxuries are justifiable when at the end of a tiring day, these of self, creating new behaviors and identity.
foods will not require further energy and preparation other than boiling.
HIKING, TREKKING, & MOUNTAINEERING PRE-TRIP, LOGISTICS, AND BUDGET PLANNING
We've often heard the terms hiking and trekking used interchangeably. We all know Good planning leads to a successful activity leads to a rewarding and pleasurable
they're both outdoor recreational activities. But are they really the same? experience for the participants. The key to planning is dealing efficiently with a route plan and
HIKING is an outdoor activity of walking in beautiful natural environments on pre- evacuation routes, safety and risk management plans, the logistics involved in the activity, and
charted paths called hiking trails. There are day hikes and overnight hikes. an important factor to be able to carry out an activity is of course the budget.
TREKKING is a long journey be undertaken on foot in areas where there are usually no
means of transport available. Trekking is not necessarily mountaineering; it is walking for Site Plan, Route Plan, and Evacuation Routes
several days, usually on uncharted paths, in challenging environments that are likely to be hilly The following must be considered in planning for the route, activity, and selection of
or mountainous. the site:
MOUNTAINEERING (also referred to as ‘mountain climbing’ or mainly in Europe ✓ Itinerary
‘Alpinism’) is the sport of climbing a mountain. • Enumerating the activities and identifying the estimated date or time when the
Regardless of the length of the trip which can range from a few hours to multi-day activities will be taking place.
expeditions, mountaineering is more physically demanding than HIKING and TREKKING. • The itinerary always starts from departure up to arrival to the original take-off point.
Mountains often provide a mixed terrain (with the presence of rock, ice and snow), so climbers ✓ How to get to the site, which includes:
need to be able to navigate through a wide variety of conditions. Depending on the case, • Distance
mountaineering may involve using technical equipment and combining a series of related skills • Transportation
like scrambling, climbing, glacier travel, ice climbing, or mixed climbing. • Alternate Routes
Besides reaching a summit or completing a ridge traverse, the true success (and the ✓ Having background information of the Activity
main objective) of a mountaineering trip lies in overcoming safely every hazard along the route. • In Snorkeling, one needs to identify the specific location of the snorkeling site and the
Source: https://www.explore-share.com/blog/what-is-mountaineering/ characteristics of the waters such as the current, undertows, waves, and aquatic
hazards.
Did you know • In canoeing or kayaking activity, the important things to learn beforehand are knowing
Romeo Roberto “Romi” Garduce was the first Filipino to climb the Seven Summits the starting point of the river and the various points of the river such as its rapids and
of the world. He has conquered Mt. Aconcagua of Argentina, South America in January rocks, or where one can stop if needed.
2005; Mt. Everest of Nepal, Asia in May 2006; Mt. Elbros of Russia, Europe in August 2007; • Mountain climbing involves knowing the elevation gain, the kind of trail,
Mt. Mckinley or Denali Peak of Alaska, United States in North America in June 2008; environmental hazard, temperature, and weather.
Australia’s Mt. Kosciuszko in December 2008; Indonesia’s Mt. Carstensz Pyramid • In orienteering, the site and map need to be studied ahead of time to understand the
(Australasia region) in July 2011; and Vinson Massif of Antarctica in 2012. terrain, vegetation, etc.
• In Scuba Diving, a diving plan is a must. Just like snorkeling, part of the plan should
HOW AND WHAT TO PREPARE
also involve the characteristics of the water.
A. PHYSICAL CONDITIONING
• In camping, one needs to know the camping site location and its environment, its
Preparation for a long trek may be more intensive as it will need to prepare the body
available facilities (front country camping), and water source, if any.
for the physical demands of the activity. Weeks before the trek, you should start the pre-
• An important part of route planning is also identifying the nearest emergency facility
conditioning of your body by exercising at least three (3) times a week for at least 30-60
in case it will be needed.
minutes.
Three elements go into being hiking fit: aerobic conditioning, strength, and flexibility:
Safety and Risk Management Plan
1. Aerobic
• Safety and risk management plans for the site and itinerary should be in place.
The best way of preparing for a long hike is to walk a lot. Walking up and down a slope
with a pack on your back is like any other physical activity; it uses specific muscle groups that • Activity-specific guidelines must also be formulated and orientation must be given to
need to be trained in order to perform at optimum efficiency. Therefore, any time you spend all participants.
walking with a pack on your back, particularly on challenging, uneven terrain, will hold you in Action plans for emergencies must be prepared and everyone involved in the plans must be
good stead once out on the trail. informed.
 For instance, consider the number of participants as one of the hazards. What is the 2. Strength
degree of risk involved in having 180 students in one outdoor activity? Will the number impose In addition to aerobic fitness, a simple series of strengthening exercises will help you
a great risk based on the previous experience or perhaps certain procedures were already set? to hike more efficiently and minimize your chances of injury on the trail.
If this is the case, there will be ways of reducing the risk further? So, all these questions are Wall Sit: Great for increasing quadriceps strength; comes in handy during those long/steep
part of the assessment of identified risk. descents. Especially beneficial for those with a history of knee problems.
Calf Raises: Helps to increase ankle and calf strength. The stronger your ankles, the less likely
HOW CAN RISK BE REDUCED? you are to turn or twist them when walking over uneven terrain. Be sure to stretch your calves
Risk reduction is coming out with strategies and implementing the strategies that will after finishing the exercise.
minimize the risk of the activities. This will include detailed pre-trip planning, coming up with Squats: All-around leg strength. The “Daddy” of leg exercises. Note: if you have a history of
policies and procedures, staff training, equipment inspection, and maintenance, and knowing knee problems, it is best to start with the wall sit and/or modified versions of the squat until
the participants prior to the activity. your leg strength improves.
The Pre-trip planning will cover basic knowledge of weather forecast, site selection Crunches: Lower abdominals/core strength.
(e.g., knowledge of the water’s currents; undertows; the presence of aquatic hazards such as Leg Raises: Upper abdominals/core strength. A good tip is to place your hands underneath your
jellyfish or weeds; trekkers/ hikers knowing the difficulty levels of mountains; and buttocks, palms facing down, thereby giving support to your lower back.
environmental hazards such as leeches and poison ivy), availability of emergency personnel in Plank: All around core strength.
the area, and basic facilities of the site. Pre-trip planning is having an understanding and Tree: A yoga asana (posture) beneficial for improving balance and ankle strength. As a bonus,
knowledge of how the activity will go in a specific place at a particular date and time. it also helps your powers of concentration. To increase the difficulty factor, try closing your
The Policies and guidelines may be set by activity facilitators as safety measures for eyes.
participants. Some policies and guidelines may be set by activity facilitators as safety measures 3. Flexibility
for participants. Some policies are in accordance with national laws. For instance, divers must Tired and sore muscles are more prone to injury. Regular stretching is a means of
have a diver’s certificate before being allowed to dive at certain levels. It can also be local policy minimizing the chances of injury occurring. I regularly stretch during breaks and at day’s end.
or law, such as no campfires on certain mountains, no hiking on a particular weather condition,
or no caving without qualified guides. It can also be on school-level policy or procedure, such B. NUTRITION
as medical certificate must be issued by physicians before being allowed to join an outdoor Nutrition is also important in the preparations. Trekking can be pretty intensive; thus,
activity. Rules, regulations, policies, and procedure are important measures to reduce – if not the body will be needing enough fuel to meet the demands of the activity. Fueling the body
to eliminate – the risk and are a part of the management plan. means increasing the amount of glycogen or the stored glucose in the muscles. Although the
An important factor is also the qualification and training of individuals to conduct or body gets glucose from most food groups, it converts carbohydrates into glucose more easily.
coordinate activities. There are specific skills that are very crucial to conduct and facilitate ‘Carbo-loading,’ as we often hear from athletes, means boosting energy or increasing the
outdoor recreational activities. This plays a very important role in the safety of participants. amount of glycogen in the body to help one get going longer before “hitting the wall” – when
Equipment selection, inspection, and maintenance play an important role in reducing the carbohydrates reserves are depleted such that a person cannot reach the desired highest
the risk of an accident. Equipment to be used should be approved standard. Inspecting each level of performance anymore. Different athletes have different ways of carbo-loading. One
part of the gear and trying them out before the activity, to make sure that they operate way is tapering the workout before the activity, allowing the muscles to be fueled by
properly is, is a must. carbohydrates rather than expending it all to the workout while increasing carbohydrates
Lastly, a basic knowledge of the composition of the participants also helps in risk intake.
reduction. Understanding the skill levels of the participants will allow the facilitators or leaders
to adjust and anticipate certain difficulties and needs. further, disclosing the risk and having C. PLANNING
the participants understand the dynamics of accidents will make them more aware of Planning is basic to any activity. Most activities end up unsuccessful and even
responsibilities to ensure the safety of themselves and other participants. disastrous due to poor planning or, worst, no planning at all.
If it will be an organized hike or trek, then most definitely, planning will be done by
the group. As a participant in the group, your task is always to get to know the facts about the
mountain, learn the itineraries and other rules and procedures.
If it will be just a hike and you are planning it among yourselves, then it is best to
research and explore possible locations that will match your skill level and your limitations with
time and budget. It is also advisable to go in as a small group, as management of safety is more
difficult for big groups and having a big group creates more impact on the mountain. Checking
the weather conditions, terrain, trails, and requirements, if any, should be taken into
consideration when planning. Talking to people who have experienced the activity would also Dynamics of Accidents Model
be helpful, as they can have useful knowledge and advice. Plan your itinerary and make sure
to leave it to someone, so he/she can check on you on your expected return. Environmental Human Factor Accident
Hazards Hazards Potential
D. HIKING AND TREKKING ESSENTIALS
The following items are the basic “must-have” equipment in Hiking or Trekking:
i. Backpack
Backpacks are very important during a hike since everything that will be needed is
carried in this pack. For a day’s hike, a small pack is just fine as there are just a few things
needed for it. Trekking on the other hand is a different story, as this is like carrying “your home
on your back.” Food, clothing, shelter, cooking gear, and other essentials will be placed in one
Therefore, risk identification should also include identifying the likely risk
pack.
combination. For instance, in the Bulacan field trip tragedy, one can identify more than two
ii. Footgear
hazards overlapping and this will mean higher chances of an accident. What was there were
Hiking and trekking require long walks and shoes are the most important equipment
more human and environmental hazards, then this will be an even greater risk of an accident.
at this point. With the wrong footwear, hiking and trekking experience will surely be a disaster,
Hazard Factor: Weather + Hazard Factor: Human = Accident
going home with blisters and bruises. A good fit is the number one requirement in choosing
• It has been raining prior to • Lack of pre-trip ➢ Drowning due to flash
footwear.
the field trip preparations and flood
• HIKING SHOES are lighter compared to boots and more flexible but offer less support. They
• Risk of sliding on slippery organization by the
are best for well-defined trails and shorter hikes where you carry a relatively lighter load.
trail organizers, faculties, and
• HIKING BOOTS give more support and have more protective features than hiking shoes
• Risk of getting drowned participants.
because they have a lighter cut with slightly stiffer materials. The trade-off though is the
due to a higher level and • Lack of coordination with
weight – these are heavier than the hiking shoes. But if heading for a longer and rougher
flash floods. the local government
terrain and will entail carrying a moderately heavy load, then hiking boots are more
unit.
preferred.
• Lack of clear trip details to
• TREKKING BOOTS are for longer treks while carrying heavy loads. These shoes are tough
parents.
and can cope with all kinds of terrain and weather conditions. They are taller and stiffer
and have thicker outsoles with all-around protection. The downside of these shoes is that
If there was only one hazard factor involved, then there would be a higher chance of
they are heavier compared to most hiking shoes and many hiking boots.
preventing the accident. Suppose, in this case, coordination with the local government unit
iii. Trekking Poles
was done (human factor managed), then perhaps there would have been an emergency
The Poles are essential aides for those with knee problems. However, they are also
response team stationed on the site, such that if an emergency situation occurs, there would
used by some to provide lateral stability on steep slopes and aid when climbing rocks or
be someone who could respond and help and there would have been lesser chances of a
boulders. They also become a tool in checking the depth of mud or water. Some trekking poles
tragedy occurring.
may also have a dual function as a tent pole.
Risk assessment now includes understanding the degree of the risk and the probability
Safety Reminders in Hiking and Trekking
or likelihood of it happening or occurring. The experience of the organizers, facilitator, or
Hike with a group and never alone. Hike within your skills. Hike within the trails and be aware leader of the activities may have an insightful input on this matter. Knowledge of the organizer,
of surroundings. facilitator, or leader of the activities may have an insightful input on this matter. Knowledge of
the location, the activity itself, the level of competence of the participants, and the level of
Instructions from guides, facilitators, or leaders should be given utmost attention. Rules and confidence given to activity coordinators/ facilitators/ leaders in terms of their competence
regulations should be followed strictly. will also contribute to the assessment.
Keep in mind and heart the Leave No Trace Seven Principles; go back and review it.
Ensure the safety of self and others. Learn to apply first aid. Learn where to go and what to do
during emergency situations.
RISK IDENTIFICATION ORIENTEERING
HAZARDS are things that have the potential to harm while RISKS is the likelihood of Orienteering is an activity in which you have to find your way somewhere on foot as
realizing such potential. For instance, what are the possible risks of kayaking? The potential quickly as possible by using a map and a compass.
hazard may be the lack of knowledge of the weather conditions. With such a potential hazard, When planning to go hiking and/or camping do you really need a map and compass if
there can be a risk of the boat capsizing leading to the risk of drowning. you have a GPS? In today's world of high-tech devices, there are purpose-built GPS devices as
Risk Identification, therefore, first involves knowing the hazards of the activity. Three sources well as many of our everyday devices such as our phones have built-in GPS.
of hazards may give rise to the risks (Parkin & Blades, 1998), the participants, the equipment, We have become highly dependent on them but what happens if they fail and you are
or from the surroundings. Some risks are visible and easily identifiable and others may be less out on that long hike away from camp? The short answer is yes you should at least carry a
definable. compass if not a topo map as well.
A detailed topographical map and a compass are still the primary tools for navigation
Hazards from Human Factor in the wilderness. A compass helps you orient the map, identify land features and locate your
Human factors include hazards coming from the participants and leaders or organizers position. You may hike for days on a trail and never even use the compass. Take a wrong turn
of the activity. and then a compass suddenly becomes one of the most important tools in your pack. The ability
▪ Participant factors may include the unmanageable size of the group, the lack of skills, to navigate with a map and compass is a crucial skill, especially if you travel off-trail. You can
knowledge, and experience, poor health, age, and even attitude problems. take a class on land navigation or utilize the many resources on the Internet to become familiar
▪ Leader/organizer factors may include their lack of knowledge of environmental hazards, with basic land navigation techniques. This is a skill you should learn and practice regularly as
poor coordination and management skills, inability to respond to emergencies, poor someday it may save your life.
planning, and communication, among other things. https://www.gogglesnmore.com/blog/hiking-and-camping-do-you-really-need-a-
compass/#:~:text=A%20compass%20helps%20you%20orient,important%20tools%20in%20your%20pack
Hazards from Equipment .
Equipment includes the basic things to be used in the activity such as masks and COMPASS
flippers in snorkeling, the boat and personal floating device (PFDs) in kayaking, ropes in TYPES OF COMPASSES
trekking, etc. The equipment also includes the proper clothing and footwear of the Modern compasses come in different shapes and sizes.
participants.
A. AIR-DAMPED COMPASS
Hazards from the Environment The simplest and cheapest form of compass. It does little
Weather condition tops the list of an environmental hazard. Others include the more than indicating the approximate direction of magnetic
temperature, the terrain, rock stability, darkness, and others. north. It takes a long time to stabilize and the slightest movement
makes the needle move. This compass should never be used for
RISK ASSESSMENT any sort of hike or expedition.
Many of the sources of hazards that may cause the risks that were mentioned have
been clearly identified and defined. Thus, one can find ways to manage or reduce the risk of an B. SIMPLE MAP-SETTING COMPASS
accident. For instance, equipment should be clearly identified, and checking them is a way of A liquid-filled compass that marks
reducing risks. There are, however, hazards that are not as easily defined, such as the attitude magnetic north only. It can be clipped to the side
and state of mind of participants. If one conflicts with another factor, there might be a great of a map and is useful for positioning a map until
potential for an accident. whatever is in front of you in reality is in front of
Allan Hale in 1984 developed a Dynamics of Accident Model (Bunting, 2006) where he you on the map. This can only be approximate as
came up with the accident equation on how accidents occur. He said there is the potential for there is no allowance for magnetic variation (the
an accident when two of the risks overlap, the greater the potential for an accident. difference between magnetic north and grid
north – see Magnetic declination for a full
explanation of these terms).
C. PRISMATIC COMPASS Principle 4: Leave What You Find
A more expensive compass with a prism, which enables a • Examine archeological structures, old walls, and other heritage artifacts but do not
compass bearing to be taken while sighting your objective. It can be touch or leave marks on them.
more accurate than other compasses but it is harder to use and • Leave nature as you found them. Do not take a plant, rocks, plants, or marine animal
therefore should only be used once the basic principles of map and with you.
compass work have been mastered. • Avoid introducing non-native plants and animals.
• Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

D. SILVA (BASEPLATE) TYPE COMPASS Principle 5: Minimize Campfire Impacts

This compass consists of a magnetized needle suspended in an alcohol-filled housing. • Use a lightweight stove for cooking; campfires can cause lasting impact.
This housing can be turned and is called a bezel. Around the outside of the bezel are the 360- • If fires are permitted, use fire rings or mound fires that are already set-up.
degree markings of a circle. The compass housing has etched orienting lines and an orienting • Keep the fire small and use only sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.
arrow, while the base plate (on which the housing is mounted) is marked with the direction of • No burning of plastics or other substances that emit toxic fumes.
travel arrow and map scales. This compass enables the user to take bearings, and an accurate • Burn wood into ashes and make sure fires are completely out. Scatter the cool ashes.
method of determining direction, and it is therefore the compass of choice for hiking and
expeditions, or when making a route card. Principle 6: Respect Wildlife
• Observe wild animals a distance and they should be avoided during sensitive times
such as mating, nesting, or raising the young.
• Do not feed wild animals or birds as it is not their natural food. The food might damage
their health or their alter behavior and even expose them to predators.
• Protect wildlife and protect your food as well by storing and securing the trash as well.
• In case you decide to bring your pets along, make sure it is allowed and you can control
them. Otherwise, do not bring them with you.

Principle 7: Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• Respect people who live and work in the countryside.
• Respect other visitor and let them have a momentous experience as well
• Allow the sound of nature to prevail, not your noise or your radio.
WALKING ON A BEARING USING A COMPASS • Be courteous; yield to others on a trail.
It is easy to walk on a bearing with a Silva-type compass. Imagine you have been asked • Camp away from trails and other visitors.
to follow a bearing of 60°.
1. Holding the compass flat and level in your hand,
turn the bezel until the bearing (60°) lines up with OUTDOOR ACTIVITY RISK MANAGEMENT
the direction of the travel arrow. This has set your Outdoor recreational activities entail a combination of challenge, risk, and adventure.
direction of travel to 60°. The presence of the risk factor in an outdoor activity creates uncertainty and the possibility of
2. Now turn the compass until the needle lines up negative outcomes. Safety is always a consideration but this cannot always be guaranteed
with the orienting arrow (ie north on the needle because there are factors where one has little control at all such as sudden rockfall or inclement
matches north on the compass). weather conditions. However, there ways of managing and reducing these risks and these can be
3. You can now follow the direction of the travel planned prior to the activity. Risk Management anticipates the possible undesired events and
arrow. Remember to check your bearing and your establishes a preferred course of action to avoid or minimize the possible occurrence. In
objective at regular intervals. anticipating undesirable eventualities, the plans start from identifying the risks and source of
hazards. After which, the possibility of the occurrence of such risk must be assessed and come
up with a strategy of minimizing the effect of the risk on the activity.
LEAVE NO TRACE SEVEN PRINCIPLES USING A MAP AND COMPASS TO TAKE A BEARING
(http://Int,org/learn/7-principles accessed June 15, 2015) To find a bearing on a map a similar process is used.
It has been established outdoor recreation is an interaction between man and nature. 1. Place the compass on your map so that one
This interaction should come in care and respect. It is important that in using and enjoying what long edge of the baseplate follows a straight
nature offers, an equal responsibility not only for our safety but also in conserving and line between the starting point and your
preserving. This must be consciously employed by all. This way, everyone can continue to go objective. Turn the bezel until the orienting
back and have future generations experience the great things in nature that the current lines are parallel to the blueprinted Eastings on
generation has. The “Leave No trace Seven principles” is universal outdoor ethics that will guide the map.
you in the activities to do with nature. It also provides the frameworks for making decisions in 2. Take the compass off the map and read off the
outdoor recreations. number that is now at the beginning of your
direction of travel arrow. Add or subtract the
Principle 1: Plan Ahead and Prepare local magnetic variation. This is your bearing.
• Before going to the place, check if your planned activity is permitted. Make sure to 3. Turn the whole compass so that the needle
know the rules, guidelines, and safety procedures they have set. Some places require certain rests over the orienting arrow, with the red
permits or clearances. part pointing north. Hold the compass in front
• Make sure you have the needed equipment for your activity and the SKILLS needed to of you, pick out a landmark along your line of
undertake the activity. travel and walk towards it.
• Plan to cope in the case an emergency arises.
• Check the weather forecast and be prepared for changing weather conditions. PIONEERING (Backwoods Engineering)
• Learn when areas are most crowded and try to avoid those times. Pioneering is the knowledge and skill of using simple materials to build structures that
• To minimize environmental impact and for safety reasons, keep group numbers small. are used in a wide range of Outdoor Recreation activities. These skills are sometimes referred
• Repack food to minimize waste. to as “backwoods engineering.”
• When trekking, maps, and compass must be used to avoid markings or leaving marks Down through the ages, people have used ropes, spars, and simple hardware to build
on rocks and the likes. bridges, towers, and even their own shelters. In the early development of our country,
pioneering methods were used in mining and transportation, to clear the wilderness, and to
Principle 2: Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces build roads and bridges. So, it is understandable that the term “backwoods engineering” was
• Walk, run, bike, or camp on durable surfaces like established tracks, rocks, gravel, and applied.
dry grasses. Pioneering is a good foundation for many outdoor recreation activities. You must
• Avoid walking on soft surfaces like soft plants. You might be trampling on a young tree learn, and then use, such disciplines as planning ahead and teamwork.
or pasture and this will cause vegetation damage. But most of all, pioneering provides a practical way to experience the joy of
• Use existing trails or campsites, no need to build a new campsite that will alter the accomplishment when you’ve built something that is needed for yourself or others; it can be
environment. something that makes living in camp easier and more comfortably. Pioneering can be both fun
• To avoid erosion, walk in a single file along the trail. and challenging when you use your skill and knowledge to choose the right materials (ropes
• Avoid places where impacts are just beginning to show. and spars) and build a usable structure.
• When camping, keep the campsite small and discreet. The basics of pioneering, such as tying knots, making lashings, using rope tackle,
• Camp at least 200 feet from lakes and rivers to protect the waters. constructing anchors, and basic rope knowledge can be done at home.
Source: https://scoutpioneering.com/2013/02/16/introduction-to-pioneering/
Principle 3: Dispose of Waste Properly
• “Pack it in, pack it out” means everything you brought should be brought back with KNOTS
you including left-over food or fruit peel. Nothing should be left.
The ability to tie knots is a useful skill. Understanding the purpose of a particular type
• When camping, cat holes are dug (6-8 inches deep) for human waste and covered just
of knot and when it should be used is equally important. Using the wrong knot in an activity or
the same with soil and weeds or leaves on top.
situation can be dangerous.
• Dishes should be washed 200 feet from lakes or rivers and use biodegradable soaps.
Scatter strained dishwater.
PARTS OF A ROPE 1. Unwind the monkey fist then have an excess of approximately two (2) arm’s length and
The main parts of a rope are called: tie two half hitches to the locker carabiner.
• Working end – the end of the rope you are using to tie a knot. 2. Tie the excess end to the standing part of the other side of the rope with a Blake Hitch
• Standing end – the end of the rope opposite to that being used to tie the knot. then finish with an eight knot.
• Standing part – any part between the two ends. It can be a part of the rope already used
in the knot.
• Loop – a loop made by turning the rope back on itself and crossing the standing part.
• Bight – a loop made by turning the rope back on itself without crossing the standing part.
Standing End

3. Put up your feet against the wall and see if the Blake hitch stops you from sliding down.
If not, then you’re ready to climb. Put your feet up high then trust your hip while pulling
up the other standing part then slide up the Blake hitch.
COMMON KNOTS 4. Repeat the process until you reach your desired height.
Working knots, as opposed to decorative knots, are usually one of the following types:
• Stopper knots, which are tied at the end of a line.
• Loops and nooses, such as a bowline or figure of eight.
• Bends are used to tie one rope to another.
• Hitches used to fasten a rope to another object. Hitches rely on the rope being pulled
under tension to hold fast.

OVERHAND KNOT
This simple stopper knot is quick and easy to tie and can be tied tightly up against an
object or another knot.

FIGURE OF EIGHT
This stopper knot is unlikely to jam or pull loose. When doubled, it is also used to tie
a loop in a rope.
 HALF HITCH
This simple hitch can be used to fasten a rope to a ring or post. It forms the basis of
many more complex knots.

REEF KNOT
This knot is used to tie together two working ends of the same material and size. It is
often remembered by the phrase, ‘leftover right and under, then right over left and under.

ROUND TURN AND TWO HALF-HITCHES

This knot has a long name but is actually a simple hitch. It is a composite knot, meaning
it is formed from two simple knots and is used to attach a rope to a post or an eyelet.

CLIMBING
Climbing is the activity of using hands, feet, or any other part of the body to ascend a
steep topographical object. It is done for locomotion, recreation and competition, and within CLOVE HITCH
trades that rely on ascension; such as emergency rescue and military operations. This hitch is another way to fasten a rope to a post. It is not as secure as the round
turn and two half-hitches but is often used to begin other hitches and lashings.
CLOSED SYSTEM
PROCEDURE:
5. Put on the harness or make your Swiss Seat then attach two (2) slip carabiners and to it a
locker carabiner. When your Swiss seat is ready, prepare your rope. HIGHWAYMAN’S HITCH
6. Make a “Monkey Fist” at one working end and throw to target support. This ‘slip hitch’ holds fast when the standing end is pulled, but will come free when
the working end is pulled. It is used to tie a boat to a mooring ring or an animal to a rail or post

SHEEPSHANK
The knot is used to shorten a rope and can be tied in the middle of a rope without
needing the ends. It can also be used to bridge a damaged length of a rope, but make sure that
the damaged part goes through both half-hitches (ie between the ‘S’). The sheepshank should
be kept under tension – if the rope goes slack, it may come undone.

BOWLINE (PRONOUNCED ‘BO-LIN’)

This vital knot is used to make a non-slip loop at the end of a rope. It is invaluable in
rescue situations – learn it so that you can tie it with your eyes closed, or even with one hand.
It is often remembered by the phrase, ‘the rabbit comes out of its hole, round the tree and
down the hole again!’
 gain greater control of the rope, thus
increasing the safety of the rappel.
Rappel gloves are gloves that are specially designed to provide protection and comfort
while rappelling. There are several differences in design that may distinguish a rappel glove
LASHING from a normal one:
Lashings are used to join together poles or spars to enable the construction of objects • Double padded areas - Many rappel gloves have extra protection in key friction areas, such
and structures. This activity is called pioneering. Common pioneering projects include as the thumb and palm of the hand, to prevent them from wearing through.
gateways, bridges and platforms, or smaller camp items such as washstands, chairs, benches • Fingerless design - To allow for greater dexterity when tying knots and working with rope,
and tables. some rappel gloves will leave the first joint uncovered.
• Grippy fabric - To help you maintain control, most gloves come with enhanced fabric on
THE FOUR BASIC LASHINGS the inside of the palm to make it easier to grip your rope.
I. SQUARE LASHING • Lightweight design - Like most climbing equipment, rappel gloves are designed to be as
transportable as possible, while still retaining key safety features.
A square lashing is the most widely used lashing for securing one spar to another when
Most of the special features added to rappel gloves are there for one reason: to make
they cross at an angle. It is particularly used to stop spars sliding over each other.
it safer for you to rappel. They are built by companies like Black Diamond and Petzl, who know
Procedures:
about the importance of climbing gear, and carry tons of extra features that will make your life
1. Begin with a clove hitch underneath the pole to be supported (figure 1). Leave enough
easier.
of a tail (standing end) to tie a square knot when lashing is complete. Alternatively, end with a
clove hitch as shown in Figure 5.
HELMET
2. Position the horizonal pole above the clove hitch.
For a variety of vertical activities, the
3. Wrap the rope up over the horizonal pole, then across behind the vertical pole, pulling
helmet is an essential piece of safety equipment.
tight all the time (figure 2).
It protects the head against falling debris (rocks)
4. Next bring the rope down over the horizontal pole then across behind the vertical
and on impact –e.g. if the climber’s head hits a
pole. This finishes one complete wrap (figure 2). Continue wrapping in the same way making
rock wall during a fall.
sure your rope sits on the outside of the previous wrap. The wraps should not overlap so the
Many climbers/rappellers are resistant
rope won’t slip and loosen the lashing. All wraps should be neat, even, and tight.
to wearing one they feel uncomfortable or
5. After 3-4 wraps, next frap ~3 times. Frapping is when you wind the rope between the
unattractive, but they forget that their life is in
poles, pulling tightly each time you go around. This tightens the rope turns already made even
danger. Climbers must raise awareness and
tighter, preventing the poles from moving (figure 3 & 4).
encourage each other to use a helmet in the
Finish off with a square knot using the standing end or with a clove hitch (figure 5).
same way a motorist uses a seat belt.

RAPPELLING
When using the seat-hip rappel, friction is created by a carabiner that is inserted in a
sling rope seat and fastened to the descender. This method provides a faster and more
controlled descent than other methods. Wear gloves to prevent rope burns.
An alternate technique is to insert a locker carabiner into the first carabiner (attached to the
rappel seat) and run the rope through the locker carabiner. This allows easier disengagement
from the rappel rope without running the entire rope through the first carabiner. To disengage
from the rappel rope using the alternate technique, release the tension from the rope by
opening the gate of the first carabiner and removing the locker carabiner (with the rope
attached).
Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKaFJMPAp9Y
Carabiners II. DIAGONAL LASHING
SLIP Carabiners are oblong or D-shaped A diagonal lashing is used to pull two spars together and prevent them from springing
metal rings with one spring-hinged side that apart, for example, at the cross-brace of a framework.
is used especially in mountain climbing as a Procedure:
connector and to hold a freely running rope. 1. Begin with a timber (figure 1) or clove hitch around both poles to draw the poles together.
2. Wrap 3-4 turns around the two poles in one axis (figure 1).
3. Next make 3-4 turns, this time over the center hitch (figure 2).
4. Tighten the turns by applying ~3 frapping turns between the poles, pulling each turn tightly
(figure 3).
LOCKING Carabiners: have gates that can be 5. Finish with a clove hitch (figure 4).
locked in the closed position to provide extra 6. Alternatively, you may start with a clove hitch around both poles and end with a square
protection against accidental gate openings. knot.

Descenders
A Figure (8) Eight: sometimes just referred to as an (8) eight, is
used in conjunction with a harness and carabiner to control
descent,

III. SHEER LASHING

There are two types of sheer lashing. The first is used to join together two spars to
make a longer length, for example, when making a flagpole. The second type is used to create
sheer legs, where the spars are lashed together at one end and opened to form an inverted V-
A Bent Ear Figure (8) Eight: can be used to descend in the same shaped support.
way as the standard figure 8 but has an obvious advantage that Procedure:
by wrapping the rope around its ear, it can help people hang 1. Line up the two ends of the poles. If poles are of uneven length, align butt ends.
in the middle air to appreciate the scenery or work in high 2. Start with a timber (figure 1) or clove hitch around one pole.
level. 3. Continue with 6-8 turns which are made firmly, but not too tight (figure 2).
4. Next, make ~3 frapping turns between the two poles to tighten the lashings (figure 3).
RAPPEL GLOVES 5. Finish with a square knot or clove hitch and spay legs open (figure 4).
Many people ignore the importance
of rappel gloves, especially if they’re using
their rappel as a secondary activity (e.g. to
descend from a climb). The truth is, rappel
gloves are an essential piece of equipment and
can be the difference between a safe rappel
and a potentially harmful accident. Selecting
the right glove is an important step in ensuring
that you have the proper gear to rappel. IV. FIGURE OF EIGHT LASHING
Rappel gloves are specifically-built pieces of gear that protect your hands from rope The figure of eight lashing is also known as the round or tripod lashing. It is used to
burn while rappelling. They allow you to bring together three spars to form a tripod or gyn.
Procedure:
1. Lay 3 poles side-by-side. If poles vary in length be sure to have the butt ends aligned.
2. Start with a clove hitch on one of the outside poles. (figure 1)
3. Continue with 4-6 turns over and under the poles not too tightly; in a figure of eight pattern. The SWISS SEAT is constructed as follows:
(figure 2 & 3) (1) Place the midpoint (center) of the length of the sling rope on the hip opposite the brake
4. Make ~3 frapping turns between each pole. (figure 4 & 5) hand (the brake hand is the strong hand).
5. Finish with a square knot using the standing end of the original clove hitch. (2) Bring the sling rope around the waist above the hip bone. Tie a double overhand knot over
6. Alternatively, some end the lashing with a clove hitch instead of a square knot. the navel.
(3) Let the two free ends of the sling rope fall to the ground in front.
(4) Bring the two free ends of the sling rope down between the legs and up over the buttocks.
Ensure that the two free ends do not cross.
(5) Pass the ends of the ropes over the rope that is tied around the waist at the two points
above the center of the two rear-seat pockets.
(6) Grab the free end of the rope that is on the left side of the body with the left hand and the
free end of the rope that is on the right side of the body with the right hand.
WATCHTOWER BOTTOM/TRIPOD (7) Squat down and simultaneously pull on both running ends of the ropes and stand up. This
Tripods are commonly used for hanging the pots for cooking. But it can also be will tighten the seat.
used as the base for the other structures like cooking utensils and dishes dryer, big ridge (8) Take the two running ends of the rope down and back over the waist rope from the inside.
tent, flag pole base, etc. Bring the running ends back under the ropes that are going across the buttocks.
1. Prepare six (6) spars of equal length and
some rope.
2. Lay 3 poles side-by-side and join them
together using the Figure of Eight or Tripod
Lashing.
3. Spread the bottom apart with the same
length as the spars to form the legs.
4. On one of the legs, attach the fourth spar
using a square lashing.
5. Attach the other end of the fourth spar to
the next leg using also a square lashing.
6. Continue the process with the remaining
spars.
7. Test your tripod’s durability by tossing it up ang allow it to fall freely on the ground. If the
lashings did not loosen or break apart, then its durable enough to be used.
RAPPELLING
CAMPING The act of descending or going down a very steep slope by holding on to a rope that
CHOOSING A CAMPSITE is fastened to the top of the slope.
It is important to choose a safe and comfortable campsite. Look for a dry area that is
slightly higher than the area around it, so that if it rains the camp area will not hold water. EQUIPMENT
Static (Rappel) Rope: In most cases, you’ll be using
DOs DON’Ts the same rope you were for climbing. Never climb
• Ask permission if you want to camp on • Camp in a basin where floodwater could with anything less than a high-quality, dynamic rope,
private property. flow. that’s at least 10mm. But if you’re going out of your
• Camp close to a good water supply if • Camp in fields with animals like cattle. way to just rappel, such as going on a rappelling tour,
you likely don’t need to carry a static rope. Static
possible. • Put your tent or shelter under large trees
ropes will be cheaper and will serve the same
• Camp in or near low trees and bushes for with branches that could break off or
function; make sure yours is at least 7.7mm.
shelter. attract lightning.
•
CLIMBING and RAPPELLING • Choose level ground for your cooking and • Make a camp toilet too close to camp.
Basic Rope Climbing & Rappelling is an essential skill to MOUNTAINEERING, shelter area. • Place your tent so the entrance is facing
TREKKING, and sometimes, even to HIKING, as to navigate and surpass difficult terrains or • Keep food cool by placing it under the the wind.
obstacles and to rescue stranded or injured companion/s. shade of a tree. • Leave your food too close to your shelter.
• Put up a clothesline in an area that catches Camp in an area by the ocean that might be
the breeze. covered by an incoming tide.
• Let someone know where you are
camping.

CAMPING SHELTERS
A TENT is often the easiest and best form of shelter when camping. There are many
kinds of tents, each suitable for different conditions. The basic ridge tent can be used in a
variety of camping conditions including backpacking trips or backyard camping. A tunnel tent
can withstand strong winds. A domed tent is light, spacious, and easy to carry.

Rope Climbing
HARNESS Ridge Tent Tunnel Tent Domed Tent
A safety harness is a form of protective equipment
designed to safeguard the user from injury or death from However, there may come a time when you don’t have a tent with you, or when you
falling. find yourself stranded and having to spend the night outdoors. Knowing how to build a shelter
will make your stay more comfortable, and may even save your life.
The LEAN-TO SHELTER is a framework of poles lashed together and thatched with long
grass, spruce boughs, or whatever material is available. Your frame should be as tall as the
person sleeping in it, and a little wider than the person.
The person will sleep lengthwise in the shelter.
Find two trees approximately the right distance apart to support the frame.
• Arrange the ground poles as shown in the diagram.
• Find two trees or branches with forks for the upright poles, and a tree or branch to fit
through the forks and rest against the trees.
Emergency Harness: SWISS SEAT (Rappel Seat) • If possible, use rope, belts, or ripped clothing to tie the upright poles to the trees. This
In the absence of a harness, you use Swiss seat in case you need to rappel due to an will strengthen the shelter.
emergency situation.
The SWISS SEAT, also known as the Rappel Seat, is one of the oldest emergency
rappelling knots, and while it’s definitely not as safe as a conventional harness, it has the
potential to save your life. Tying a Swiss Seat is not exactly rocket science, but get one part
wrong and you could end up in a bad way.
It’s difficult to find out where the Swiss Seat originated, but the technique is at least a
few centuries old. Before modern rappelling equipment became standard, climbers had to get
creative if they wanted to come down safely. Of course, some rappelling techniques surfaced,
some of which relied on nothing more than just a rope.
https://rappelinfo.com/swiss-seat-emergency-harness/
 THATCHING (cover a roof with straw or COOKING RICE WHILE BROILING UNDER
similar material) a lean-to: This is a good strategy for preparing your outdoor meal. This will save you both time
• Place a thin layer of large boughs to form and firewood.
a base for the other evergreen boughs to be Things to prepare:
plugged into. 1. Washed rice (bigas) in a hanging pot with the right amount of water, ready for cooking.
• Then, starting from the bottom, 2. A piece of preferred part of a chicken, marinated and wrapped in tin foil or banana leaf.
evergreen boughs are plugged in – butt-end up. 3. Fire woods: Tinder, Kindler, and Fuel (preferably, fuelwood that does not create big flames
• Work side to side putting on boughs, but creates glowing coals instead).
overlapping the row below. 4. Two sturdy sticks about 20mm in diameter. 1 stick a meter long and the other a foot and
• Keep adding layers until no holes or light a half. Both with ‘Y’ shaped tip. These are for making a crane fireplace.
are showing through.
• Always put the butt end up so that if it rains the water is passed needle to needle to Directions:
the ground outside the lean-to. 1. Dig an inch deep and a foot-wide hole on the ground. Do not throw away the soil.
• The sides of the lean-to can be filled in the same way. 2. Place the wrapped chicken in the middle of the hole.
• Soften the sleeping area with moss, leaves, or lichens. 3. Cover the chicken with a thin layer of loose soil. Keep the soil loose to allow the heat from
Note: In place of the evergreen boughs (uncommon in the Philippines), use coconut, banana, the fire penetrate to the chicken.
or large taro (gabi) leaves. 4. Build your star fire lay on top of the chicken and start lighting it up.
Caution: Never light a fire close to the shelter. 5. When you establish a stable fire, build your crane fireplace and hang the pot of rice on the
‘Y’ shaped tip. Make sure that the pot of rice is on top of your fire.
EMERGENCY SHELTERS
Sometimes circumstances in the outdoors like sudden storms and darkness make it
impossible for you to find the materials necessary for making a lean-to shelter. You need to
make shelters with whatever you have available.
While you are out hiking, pretend a thunderstorm came up very quickly. Using your
imagination and materials you have with you or can find outdoors, make an emergency shelter.
The following are some ideas.
A. Quick Build Lean-to:
• Cut partway through a small tree,
and then bend it over to partially
break it.
• Use the branches off the underside
of the trunk and other nearby trees to
thatch a quick shelter.
6. When the fire starts dying down, adjust the fuels towards the center and add a few more
fuels. Make your fire a nice red glowing coal. If it doesn’t, it would take you a long time to
B. Tarp or Plastic shelter: cook the chicken underneath.
• Make a tarp or plastic shelter in the 7. When the rice is done, the chicken should too. But if you failed to make good glowing coal
form of a lean-to, a wedge tent, or over out of your firewood, leave it a bit longer and keep feeding the fire. If you feel the chicken
a canoe or a fallen tree. is also cooked, push the coal aside (don’t put it out yet just in case the chicken is not done
• Secure the edges with sticks, pegs, or yet) and start gently dig the chicken out of the ground.
stones. 8. Enjoy your broiled chicken with rice.
FIRE FOR COOKING FIRE BUILDING
Star fire lay is ideal for Fire Building is a fundamental skill in outdoor recreation and is vital for survival. A fire
cooking except when using a provides warmth, a place to cook or boil water as well as a focal point for the camp. Knowing
trench and reflector fireplaces. how to light a fire as well as extinguish and clear away afterward will ensure you are prepared
But for camper and crane for a survival situation and leave no harmful impact on the area you camp in.
fireplaces, it would be just right.
Teepee and Crisscross (also SAFETY
known as Altar) fire lay will make If it is not watched or properly controlled, your campfire can be dangerous both to
your fire too high. people and the natural surroundings. Fire can spread quickly, especially in dry conditions and
a stray ember can be enough to start a forest fire. Follow the safety measures on where to
build your fire to ensure your campfire is a safe and happy one.
COOKING UTENSILS Make sure you familiarize yourself with the First Aid treatment for burns before you
1. Make a TOASTING FORK by stripping the bark off a V-shaped green branch and shaving build a fire. Ensure a First Aid Kit and water is nearby for treating small or minor burns. More
the ends into a point. serious burns will require professional medical treatment at a hospital.

Safety Factors to Consider

• Never leave a fire unattended
• Check if there is anything you need to know about the area you are camping in, for example,
2. Strip a long thin green branch, making a sharp point at the end. It can be used as a SKEWER is it prone to bush fires in dry summers, and are there protected species of trees or plants
for cooking a variety of things including Kabobs. nearby
• Don’t build a fire bigger than you need
• Check the direction and strength of the wind which can make a fire flare up and blow sparks
out of the fireplace that could set light to other areas
• Do not build your fire too close to your shelter as sparks or exploding embers could burn it
3. Use tin foil to make a FRYING PAN by wrapping foil around a V-shaped branch. • Never use methylated spirits, paraffin, petrol, or any other chemicals to start or rekindle a
fire, as chemicals are volatile, and even vapor from these can catch the light
• Don’t use riverbed rocks or flint to edge your fireplace as they can sometimes explode when
they get hot
• Hot ashes or coals: do not bury hot ashes or coals as you may set light to roots and cause a
fire to spread both under and overground
• Keep loose clothing tucked in and long hair tied back around a fire

CAMPFIRES
• Campfires are the focal point of a camp and a lot of time will be spent using them for cooking
food, boiling water and sitting around it keeping warm, singing or talking
• Always get permission from the landowner or campsite owner before starting a fire
4. You can cook small portions of meat or fish by • Fires can cause damage so think carefully about where you locate them and the effect they
wrapping them in large green leaves. This will help will have on the ground and the surrounding area
to keep the moisture and flavor in but keep the • It is unlikely that an open fire will be allowed at a commercial campsite but if it is it will
ashes out. probably have an allocated area
• Build your fire on a level area with plenty of space around it
• Light a fire well away from trees, hedgerows, and anything flammable
• Try to build on a spot where a fire has been built before
• Do not light a fire on the grass, especially in dry conditions as it could spread outside of the LEAN-TO FIRE LAY. A handful of tinder will do. Place
fireplace and get out of control very quickly kindling on top of the tinder. Have a thick wood or big
• Clear the area around the campfire spot of leaves, small tree branches, or wood cutlets stone and place it on the far side of the tinder and
before lighting it up. kindling (not too far) parallel to the wind direction. Lean
your intended fuel onto the thick wood or big stone, over
ELEMENTS OF A FIRE your kindling and tinder. Start your fire from the side of
The Fire Tetrahedron shows the four elements the fire lay.
required for combustion to occur. To have combustion you
must have oxygen, heat, fuel, and a chemical reaction of the CRISSCROSS FIRE LAY. Place two thick blocks of wood parallel to each other (as parallel as
other three elements. possible). The position of the two woods should be parallel to the wind direction. Between the
The environment requires 16% of oxygen to be two thick blocks of wood place the handful of tinder and place the kindling on top of it. Lay in
present to serve in the reaction. Air is normally composed of your first set of fuel parallel to each other but perpendicular to the two thick blocks of wood
21% oxygen and some materials contain enough oxygen in you placed in earlier. The second set of fuel should be placed in the same manner but parallel
them to support burning. to the two thick blocks of wood. Alternate the manner of laying for the succeeding set of fuel.

BUILDING YOUR FIRE

A matchstick would easily burn with a small flame, but you won’t be able to burn
through a thick log with only a matchstick in your hand. Three types of materials will be needed
to build your fire.
• TINDER catches fire easily and burns as fast as it catches it. Wood shavings, dry grass,
shredded bark, and even paper make up good tinder. To start your fire, you will need
approximately a hat-full of tinder.
• KINDLING catches fire fairly easily and burns a little bit slower than tinder. A pencil can be
considered as kindling and you will need two hat-full of kindling for your fire. COOKING IN THE OUTDOORS
• FUEL can be a piece of the stick as thick as your thumb and can go as thick as your thigh, Cooking in the outdoors is a
depending on the fire you wish to build. fundamental skill in outdoor recreation
and is vital because everyone has to eat.
FIRE LAYS Preparing meals during outdoor
TEEPEE FIRE LAY. Place a handful of tinder in the recreational activities is quite
middle of the ring. On the tinder place your kindling challenging because you cannot bring
to form a small teepee. Your fuel should be placed in everything you need for cooking. This
such a way that the top of the fuel touches the top means gourmet meals would not be
of the other fuels. The fuel should be arranged feasible because it would take a lot of
around the kindling. Leave an opening on one side of backpack space and weight to bring all
the teepee to serve as the opening to light your fire. those kitchen utensils, ingredients,
herbs, and spices. You have to keep it
STAR FIRE LAY. This fire is easy to build and can be used to hang simple and creative when preparing for
a kettle over or provide a stable base for resting a pot on. Make your meal in the outdoors.
a conical shape from kindling and small sticks, then push in the A common mistake when making a fire for outdoor cooking is to build the fire too big.
ends of six slender logs around the fire to create a star shape. You will need high flames for boiling, low flames for cooking rice, stewing, or simmering, and a
These logs will help the fire to burn for a long time. As it burns bed of glowing coals for frying and broiling. Never leave a fire unattended and be sure to have
down the logs can be pushed in towards the center of the fire. a pail of water and a shovel handy to put out a fire in case of emergency.