Ten Essentials by Roger J. Wendell

www.RogerWendell.com
Roger J. Wendell
Defending 3.8 Billion Years of Organic Evolution^SM
Line

From the Sierra Club's Rocky Mountain
Chapter Peak & Prairie publication
Volume XXIII, Number 2, April/May 1998, page 23

The Ten Essentials
(and Then Some)
by Roger J. Wendell, Rocky Mountain Chapter Outings Chair

Click Here for my backcountry gear page...

As the Chapter's new outings Chair, I encourage, almost insist, that we spend more time with nature. I hope to devote future articles to destinations, low impact techniques, and the interesting experiences to be found outdoors. First, we need to look at some basic safety items that should be included in every daypack. Each member of any outing should always carry at least these basic items in case of an emergency. (Remember, reading a short essay like this is not sufficient preparation for an outdoor experience.)

Map - Topographic "quad" (US Geological Survey, 7.5 minute Quadrangles are inexpensive and available everywhere).

Compass with straight edge - GPS units can be useful but are not reliable.

Matches and Fire Starter - A good supply of matches (protected against moisture) and at least two butane lighters. "Fire Starter" is any type of material that can be used to ensure that the fire stays lit and grows, even during wet conditions (i.e., candles or chemical and wax preparations available at outdoor and surplus stores).

Headlamp or Flashlight with extra bulb and batteries - Headlamps are preferred because they free your hands for other tasks.

Extra water and food - Always carry plenty of water, along with a purification device and/or chemicals.

Extra Clothing however, no cotton! - Cotton retains moisture and loses its ability to insulate - a very dangerous combination in the high country. Wool, polyester, and synthetics are vastly superior. An extra pair of heavy weight socks are also a "must."

First Aid Supplies - First Aid training is strongly recommended.

Pocket Knife - I like the ones full of gadgets that have at least one solid, traditional blade.

Bivy Gear - "Space" blanket, large lawn bags, 50 feet of cord, and the thermal pad. The space blanket can be used as a temporary shelter or signaling device. Large garbage bags can be used to reinforce your shelter, as additional raingear, makeshift sleeping bags, etc.

Sun Protection - Sunglasses and suncsreen.

Signaling Devices - Whistle (carries farther than shouting) and mirror.

Optional items I like to carry include:

Avalanche Beacon - Even if you're not in avalanche terrain you could be called to an area to help others.

Gaiters - Excellent ankle and leg protection in the snow, mud, heavy brush and scree-strewn slopes.

Insect Repellant

Sierra Cup - Excellent for melting snow or cooking in (worthless for drinking hot liquids because the metal edge will burn your lips!)

Each individual, regardless of the group's size, must carry at least the Ten Essentials. This applies even to "inseparable" couples who share tents and sleeping bags - there's a chance you might get separated and spend some time alone. The Ten Essentials won't guarantee your survival, but they will put you way ahead of those lost hikers we read about in the papers each year.

Links:

Alpine Rescue Team - Evergreen, Colorado
Backcountry Skiing
Bear Safety
Camping
Climbing
Colorado Avalanche Information Center (Your contributions help keep this vital service alive!)
CMC Colorado Mountain Club
CORSAR - Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue Card
Gear - Stuff for the Backcountry...
Leave No Trace - Center for Outdoor Ethics
Lightning Safety
Sierra Club
Snow Caves
Survival in the backcountry
Travel
Walking Softly in the backcountry
Waypoints

Warning! Climbing, mountaineering, and backcountry skiing are dangerous and can seriously injure or kill you. By further exploring this web site you acknowledge that the information presented here may be out of date or incorrect, and you agree not to hold the author responsible for any damages, injuries, or death arising from any use of this resource. Please thoroughly investigate any mountain before attempting to climb it, and do not substitute this web site for experience, training, and recognizing your limitations!

Back to Roger J. Wendell's Home Page...