Post by bazooka on Jun 23, 2021 18:22:46 GMT
The Ten Essentials
Packing the “Ten Essentials” whenever you step into the backcountry, even on day hikes, is a good habit. True, on a routine trip you may use only a few of them or none at all. It’s when something goes awry that you’ll truly appreciate the value of carrying these items that could be essential to your survival.
The original Ten Essentials list was assembled in the 1930s by The Mountaineers, a Seattle-based organization for climbers and outdoor adventurers, to help people be prepared for emergency situations in the outdoors. Back then, the list included a map, compass, sunglasses and sunscreen, extra clothing, headlamp/flashlight, first-aid supplies, fire starter, matches, knife and extra food.
Over the years, the list has evolved to a “systems” approach rather than including individual items. Here’s what it looks like today:
Updated Ten Essential Systems
Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger
Headlamp: plus extra batteries
Sun protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothes and sunscreen
First aid including foot care and insect repellent (as needed)
Knife plus a gear repair kit
Fire matches, lighter, tinder and/or stove
Shelter carried at all times (can be a light emergency bivy)
Extra food Beyond the minimum expectation
Extra water Beyond the minimum expectation
Extra clothes Beyond the minimum expectation
The exact items from each system that you take can be tailored to the trip you’re taking. For example, on a short day hike that’s easy to navigate you might choose to take a map, compass and PLB, but leave your GPS and altimeter behind. On a longer, more complex outing, you might decide you want all those tools to help you find your way. When deciding what to bring, consider factors like weather, difficulty, duration, and distance from help.
If you go out always tell a trusted friend or family when you are going out. Also tell when you are back from a trip. Tell this person where you are going. In case you dont return this person can notify the police or rangers that you are missing.
If possible and if it is allowed always carry a big caliber sidearm. You never know and bears are all around.
Carry a personal location beacon with emergency button together with your mobile phone. Dont forget spare batteries.
Have a save and good trip