After decades in Scouting, I finally got a chance to attend a Philmont Scout Ranch trek as an advisor. Here are some highlights of the Philmont trek equipment that worked out for me! I should have bought a set of 12 mini carabiners like these for the crew to hold the backpack tags. These…
Category: Hiking
Tourniquet Misunderstandings: Why it’s time to rethink
When I was originally learning first aid all those years ago (First Aid Merit Badge, FTW!), I learned about the tourniquet. I learned of it uses, but also its dangers. I was warned that misapplication could cause loss of limb. For many people, the tourniquet still has the stigma of dangerous first aid. It’s time…
First Aid Kit Contents: Part 2 – Boat and Home
This is part 2 of the boat and home first aid kit contents. Part 1, which covered individual, office, and car, can be found here. Boat First Aid Kit Contents: Boats offer a unique set of hazards that need to be especially considered. In addition to sun burns and fishing hooks, one must also consider…
First Aid Kit Contents: Part 1 – Individual, Office, and Car
As I’ve stated on several other posts, preparedness especially includes medical issues, be them from falls, cuts, car accidents, violent attacks, insects/animals, or just carelessness. Given all the causes, it should be easy to see that there is no “one size fits all” for a first aid kit, or, at least, not one that doesn’t…
Nitecore P12 Tactical Flashlight Review: Part 1
I needed better light. When it came to a flashlight, I had two problems. My small, pocket Maglite (the 2 AAA cell incandescent version) just wasn’t cutting it when I needed a bright light. I knew from experience that a AA cell version wasn’t any better. Also, my large flashlight powered off of my 18-volt…
Poncho Review: Frogg Toggs Poncho
Living in Florida, our biggest concern for natural disasters are hurricanes. With hurricanes you have to worry about both wind and water. Last year, in preparation for Hurricane Irma, I knew I may have to be outside during rains to prepare my property for the hurricane. I have plenty of Gore-Tex® outdoor gear, but it…
First Aid Kit Review: Lifeline 30-Piece First Aid Kit
I recently picked up a first aid kit: the Lifeline 30-Piece Small First Aid Kit. (2024 update: The 30-piece kit has been replaced with a 53-piece kit which is here.) My initial need was for my younger children to have the kit as part of the hiking essentials required for a Scouting hike, but I…