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About Floowood And The Mission of Floodwood Mt. Scout Reservation Part 1 The Program Your Voyageur Camping Trek Policy A Letter From Your Voyageurs Suggested Gear |
Tips About The Gear List Part 8 First Aid Kit Base Operations Emergency Procedures Safety Rules
General Info |
Northern New Jersey Council
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA
Floodwood Mt. Scout Reservation
25 Ramapo Valley Rd., Oakland, NJ 07436
(201) 677-1000, (201) 677-1020 Fax
Floodwood Hotline, (201) 445-1637
Floodwood Mt. Scout Reservation (Floodwood for short) is located in the town of Altamont, between the villages of Tupper Lake and Lake Placid, in upstate New York. It includes more than 160 acres owned by Northern New Jersey Council, BSA within the Adirondack Park wilderness area. From Rollins Pond, your unit has access to 9,000 square miles of the Adirondack Park, its 46 High Peaks, and the over 30,000 miles of streams and lakes for canoeing.
The Adirondack State Park is approximately the size of the state of Connecticut and is larger than the combined sizes of Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Glacier National Parks. Floodwood is ideally suited to provide access to this great parkland, thus insuring Scouts an exciting and adventurous outdoor experience. The unique outdoor program of challenges, adventure and outdoor living develops the character of scouts.
The mission of Floodwood is to promote the dignity of each individual scout, leader and staff member, helping them to develop their character to full potential through a challenging outdoor program. The staff at Floodwood strives to deepen in scouts a sense of duty to God, family, community and self. Our program is designed to develop confidence and encourage self-reliance in the spirit of cooperation with others.
To accomplish these goals Floodwood:
Ø Provides a highly trained and motivated staff to enthusiastically work with the scouts and leaders.
Ø Develops and implements an exciting program designed to educate and challenge each scout, leader and staff member.
Ø Encourages each scout, leader and staff member to set and achieve the highest possible goals for physical, mental and moral fitness.
Ø Maintains a facility that is clean, safe and ready to serve the needs of both scouts and non-scouts.
Organized camping is a creative, educational experience in cooperative group living in the outdoors. It utilizes the resources of the natural surroundings to contribute to physical, spiritual, mental and social growth.
Camping contributes to good health through supervised activity, good fun and wholesome companionship. Camping aids spiritual growth by helping scouts, leaders and staff to recognize and appreciate the handiwork of God, and nature.
Camping contributes to the development of self-reliance and resourcefulness by enabling campers to acquire knowledge, skills and attitudes that will help them throughout life.
Camping in patrols is an experience in citizenship and leadership training demonstrating the principles of group decision making and the need for cooperation and planning in carrying out daily activities.
Camping contributes to social development by providing a setting where campers learn to deal practically and effectively with challenges.
If your unit is looking for a challenging summer program, Floodwood is the place to have it. Floodwood is a wilderness Scout Camp where scouts develop skills through their daily activity, resulting in a natural achievement of advancement.
The whole Floodwood concept is unique. Your unit functions much like it normally does on a camping trip; but this time you'll be staying for a longer time. That doesn't mean you'll be in camp the whole time, for you will use your troop site as a base camp, leaving for overnights, canoe trips and backpacking in the High Peaks. You can even earn your 50 Miler Award!
Trips vary in length, depending on the skill of your scouts and your desires. In addition to canoe trips, units can plan backpacking hikes into the High Peaks and day hikes to nearby mountains. You can plan day hikes by troop or crew to several of our nearby ponds and even camp there overnight. Of course, no trip would be complete without an overnight atop Floodwood Mountain, waking up in time to catch the spectacular sunrise through the neighboring peaks and over the clouds below. Your Voyager will help you choose and schedule the treks that are right for your unit.
Each troop designs and operates its own program packed with fun and adventure, specifically suited to the needs and ambitions of your scouts. The Patrol Method strengthens your scouts' outdoor skills, builds their character and develops boy leadership. Each unit is responsible for implementing and operating its own program using your own troop leadership.
Advancement: Although having fun and adventure at Floodwood is generally your main reason for coming, advancement is a natural part of the experience and your troop program. Most advancement flows from the program your troop plans. When a scout cooks all his meals, builds the fires and camps away from the base camp, advancement is second nature and fun.
It is important for each scout to bring his Scout Handbook with him to camp. Likewise, some planning before camp is helpful for boys to establish and meet their advancement goals. A survey of your scouts and the advancement they wish to obtain at camp should be done before your arrival.
Merit badge work, supported by the unit leadership, has always been a part of troop camping and is encouraged at Floodwood. Examples of merit badges that can be accomplished during your trek are cooking, canoeing, camping and other badges whose requirements flow naturally from the unit's trek and recreational activities.
The well trained, highly motivated and experienced staff meets all requirements set forth by the Boy Scouts of America and the State of New York. In addition, each unit provides its own leadership and develops its own troop program through the initiative of the scouts and leaders within the troop. To aid the units in carrying out their programs, a special staff member called a Voyager accompanies the troop on trips.
Since Floodwood is built around your troop and your program, your leadership is important. This includes boy leadership as well. The Adirondack experience has been providing the setting for developing better troop leaders for over thirty years. Since the Scoutmaster is in charge of the unit at all times, most instruction, guidance, discipline and organization of the troop is carried out under his direction. The staff at Rollins Pond works with him. Consistent with the methods of Scouting, adult leadership should be provided by the Scoutmaster or Assistant. Troop Committee members may attend with your unit to provide adult supervision but they generally do not provide the leadership for camp. All Scoutmasters must be at least 21 years of age and registered with the Boy Scouts of America.
All units must abide by the National policy of Two-Deep Leadership. This means that two adult leaders, one of whom must be at least 21 years of age (the second must be at least 18) must be with the unit at all times, including trips out of camp.
Your Voyager is a trained and experienced Adirondack guide. Voyagers are chosen for their experience in the outdoors and in wilderness backpacking, canoeing, backcountry ethics and abilities. All Voyagers then undertake a specialized, week long training program offered through the Adirondack Association of Scout Camps at the BSA Camp School and are instructed by prominent Adirondack guides. They are certified in CPR and backcountry first aid and hold certifications as Boy Scout Lifeguards.
Voyagers are assigned to treks and oversee all aspects of planning and execution. Sitting down with your unit leadership, the Voyager will discuss the options and possibilities and develop a trek ideally suited to your unit's particular desires and abilities. Trekking with you, he will stress low impact camping and good wilderness ethics and will teach you specialized outdoor skills. While Voyagers are not a replacement for your unit's natural leadership, your Voyager is with you as a guide and to supervise trek operations.
All treks must abide by the rules of the Boy Scouts of America, the Adirondack Association of Scout Camps and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. DEC regulations prohibit treks of more than twelve people and treks of over nine require a permit from a DEC ranger. In keeping with wilderness and low impact ethics, Floodwood limits the number of scout participants on any trek operating out of our facilities to no more than ten scouts and encourages treks of the smallest practical size. (We'd prefer treks of less than nine people total to reduce impact and enhance planning flexibility.) Units of sizes larger than those naturally suited for treks (over twelve scouts) will form smaller trek groups based on ability and experience. Remember that all treks must have two adult leaders, one over age 21, as well as a Voyager.
When planning your trek, your first consideration should be the ability of your group. Another important consideration is length of the trip. Trek length is directly tied to group experience level and skills. With new or inexperienced scouts it's best to limit trek length to a few days. Similarly, older scouts would hardly find a short trek covering only a few miles to be a challenge.
The average rate of travel in the mountains with a full pack is 1.5 miles per hour, adding 30 minutes for each 1,000 ft. of elevation gained. This assumes that trek members are in optimum physical shape. Younger scouts will take about 50% longer.
When traveling by canoe, figure 5 miles per day for inexperienced canoers, 10 to 15 miles per day for experienced canoers, and no more than 20 miles per day for strong, expert canoers. Add time for portages, remembering you will probably need to make multiple trips with large loads. Strong winds and white caps are common in the later part of the day on Adirondack lakes, and travel against the wind or upstream can easily cut your effective travel rate to less than half these estimates.
Physical ability must also not be overlooked. Conditions in the Adirondacks are demanding. Adirondack is the Indian word for "bark-eater", and reflects the harsh conditions found here. Conditioning and physical stamina for treks can be even more important in the Adirondacks than at Philmont or other Scout High Adventure Bases. Unless you are in excellent physical condition, you are not advised to try scaling 4,000 ft. peaks with a full pack. The staff at Floodwood reserves the right to deny anyone permission to accompany a trek if they feel that person is medically unsuited for the conditions expected for that trek. Please be realistic in your assessment of your group's physical abilities. Optimum pleasure comes when the individual's physical stamina matches the toughness of the terrain or canoe waters.
The fundamental concept of your trek centers around an experience and adventure, and it goes without saying that it is going to be related to what you choose to do. Even the simplest of treks can become an adventure with the right attitude, and conversely even a complex trek can be made simple if you plan properly.
Situated in the Forest Preserve, Floodwood makes an ideal starting place for an Adirondack Wilderness Trek. The Adirondacks offer enough diversity to satisfy your unit's appetite for adventure, Afoot or Afloat, or both, you are in for a time you'll never forget!
If you wish to earn the Fifty-Miler Award, carefully check the requirements before you leave. Plan an extra day for a conservation project you can accomplish while on your trek with the tools you can bring with you. Make sure the length, in both days and distance, qualifies for the award.
Applications are available at the NNJC Service Center. The requirements are:
1. Make complete and satisfactory plans for the trip including possibilities for advancement.
2. Travel at least 50 consecutive miles in a minimum of five consecutive days under your own power.
3. While on your trek, take part in a service project of at least ten hours.
Afoot: Your unit can hike through the High Peaks of the Adirondacks, even to the summit of Mount Marcy, New York's highest mountain. Treks afoot can vary in length from day hikes to five or more days. Treks afoot vary in physical intensity from moderate to extremely challenging.
For units interested in combining afoot and afloat experiences, a good place to start is a day hike up Ampersand Mountain as part of a canoe trek. While not a High Peak, it offers one of the most spectacular views in the Adirondacks. Other day hikes can also be arranged and are a great way to get scouts motivated towards longer treks afoot in the High Peaks.
Afloat: Rollins Pond offers direct access to the bulk of the stream and lake canoe-ways in the Adirondacks. In addition, and with prior arrangement, your unit can be transported to other canoe-launches to start or finish their trip. Canoe trips vary from overnights to 100-milers, depending on your group's abilities.
Equipment: Group equipment required for treks is minimal. We provide you with most of the basics, except for lightweight tents, camp stoves and fuel. Your Voyager will stress low-impact camping techniques and will conduct an equipment "shakedown" prior to your departure. See equipment list in the Pack and Paddle Guide.
Floodwood furnishes: Canoes, paddles, life jackets, food, cooking pots & utensils, water jugs, saws/axes, tarps, water purification tablets, twine.
Food and Water: A variety of trail food meals that require minimal preparation will be supplied - many require just adding boiling water. Canned goods can also be requested, but are not recommended for treks afoot. Your Voyager will meet with you before departure to plan your trail food and menus.
Water must be brought with you or found on the way. For many years, practically any water source in the Adirondacks could be trusted to be safe and pure. While most Adirondack lakes and streams are free of pollutants, many water sources have become contaminated with a parasite known as giardia lamblia, a cyst known commonly as "Beaver Fever". It can be spread by any warm-blooded mammal when infected feces wash into water; beavers are a major culprit since they spend so much of their time near water sources, but hikers and canoers themselves have become the prime agent in spreading this disease. The safest protection for water is boiling. Other methods of treating water include iodine or filtering using a filtration system designed for removal of such cysts. Water purification tablets will be provided.
Cooking While at the Floodwood: All meals are cooked by the unit by crew in the troop campsite. Food is picked up from our Commissary. Food "buckets" with pack frames are used to transport the food back to your site. All cooking gear, including a wood burning sheepherder stove are provided for each crew, along with a picnic table and patrol box. The Patrol Method is used at all times. Since scouts do all their own cooking, they advance quickly as scouting skills are used in everyday camp living.
Fireguard: Uncontrolled fire is something for which we must always be prepared. The importance of fire as a tool rather than a toy must be stressed to your scouts. A fire in the woods can easily get out of control, causing untold damage to the environment and possible loss of life. Open flames are never permitted in tents.
Each unit is required to maintain the posted fireguard chart in their campsite.
State law requires fire buckets - one water, one sand - be placed near the entrance to each tent. Likewise, to prevent possible ground and duff fires, all fire circles must be lined with one inch of sand extending one foot beyond the fire ring. Sand must also cover the area under the sheepherder stove.
Fire tools and Indian Pumps are supplied. These items are for emergency use only. Scouts should not play with them. Fire brooms are not to be used for sweeping tents.
It's best to sketch out rough plans for your trek before you arrive at camp. Plan departure dates, length and intensity (easy or challenging) based on realistic goals for your unit. Your Voyager is in an ideal position to recommend the best routes and is familiar with current conditions.
Other sources for ideas are readily available. The Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK) publishes books and materials on trekking in the Adirondacks. The DEC also publishes informative pamphlets. Trail guides, maps and pre-planned backpack and canoe trek books are all available through outfitters in the Adirondacks and at Campmor in Paramus, NJ.
The following policy takes into account both state of New York requirements and those of the Boy Scouts of America:
• No trek group shall exceed 12 people including Scouts, Leaders and accompanying staff members.
• Each trek group shall consist of no more than 10 Scouts under 18 years of age.
• Every trek group shall have two adults, at least one over the age of 21, accompany the group on its trip.
• Every trek group shall be accompanied by a Voyageur from the Floodwood staff, or two adult leaders familiar with the Trek, with at least one certified in Advanced First Aid, RTL or EMT.
• Troops with more than ten boys participating in treks will have to split into multiple treks with appropriate leadership accompanying the treks.
• No two trek groups from Floodwood may camp in the Adirondack Park area within one mile of each other.
• There can be no swimming while on the trek, except at state-designated beaches.
• All water MUST be purified.
• Life jackets must be worn at all times while in canoes.
These policies will not only meet the standards of the state and the BSA, they will introduce proper standards of low impact camping to the Scouts of Floodwood in caring for the wilderness. These policies will be strictly enforced by the camp staff.
Trekking in the Adirondacks is not like trekking anywhere else in the world. The Adirondack Park possesses distinct conditions and qualities that give backpacking and canoeing expeditions an added dimension. Your Voyageur is eager to share the many dimensions of the Adirondack Park with your troop.
Experience has shown that a happy trek is, first and foremost, a comfortable trek. Its participants are warm, dry, clean and well fed. To guarantee a happy, comfortable group of Scouts while on trail, enclosed is a list of gear suggested especially for traveling in the Adirondack backcountry. The gear proposed will help each Scout to be as prepared as possible while minimizing pack weight. The Voyageur guides of Floodwood hope you will find this list helpful when preparing for camp.
Floowood has been providing a quality trek program for over 30 years. If you are new to the Adirondack Adventure, then you can look forward to a camping tradition as rich as its location is breathtaking. Have a safe and enjoyable trip to camp. We are looking forward to sharing the Adirondacks with you.
In Scouting,
The Floodwood Voyagers
r Backpack - lightweight, frame pack preferred
r Sleeping bag stuffed in plastic bag in waterproof stuff sack
r Sleeping Pad
r Swimming shorts
r Long Pants
r T-shirts
r Underwear
r Wool socks
r Hiking boots (for backpacking trips)
r Day shoes and wet shoes or sport sandals (for canoeing trips)
r Scout wool Jac Shirt, warm parka or sweater
r Rain gear
r Hat, with brim
r Soup bowl & spoon
r Mug or cup
r Canteens (2 quarts minimum)
r Pocket knife - no sheath knives!
r Insect repellant
r Flashlight with new batteries
r Bar of soap
r Toothbrush & toothpaste
r Bandannas
r Suntan oil
r Extra shoe laces
r Tents, lightweight backpacking
r Collapsible water containers (2 quarts/person)
r Backpacking stoves and fuel bottles
r Two sets of maps
r Rope for “bear bags”
r Two “bear bags”
r Sewing kit
« Waterproof Rain parka or Poncho: Rain gear is very important in the Adirondacks. Thunderstorms appear out of nowhere and thoroughly drench all exposed. These storms are usually followed by strong, cold winds. A wet body exposed to such wind chilled temperatures may become hypothermic.
« For canoe trips: Shoes, sneakers or sport sandals (e.g. tevas) that can get wet (to be worn in the canoe) and shoes or sneakers that must stay dry (to be worn in the campsite). It takes a long time for wet sneakers to dry out. Walking around in a campsite in cold, wet shoes is miserable.
« For backpacking trips: Good, sturdy hiking boots with ample ankle support will protect ankles from the rigors of Adirondack trails. When boots get wet or muddy, a pair of light sandals or sneakers, kept dry in the pack, are comfortable in the campsite. Wool or "Thorlo" type blend socks will prevent blisters.
« Long pants: To keep the skeeters off at night, for unusually cold mornings, and for hiking through prickly vegetation, long pants are a must!
« Scout wool Jac Shirt, warm parka or sweater: preferable with long sleeves, such a garment is important for chilly evenings and early mornings, and for retaining body heat after a cold rain.
Important: Cotton should, if possible, be avoided. Cotton T-shirts and underwear are okay. However, cotton blue jeans, sweatshirts and jackets are dangerous. Cotton absorbs water and takes a long time to dry out. A sweatshirt or pair of jeans soaked by a sudden rain makes the body over two hundred times colder than it would be in dry clothes. Wool, polyester and other nylon materials are strongly recommended. Scout pants are very good for trekking. The cotton-poly blend provides a durable, quick drying combination almost ideal for the outdoors.
Also: Although backpacks claim to be waterproof, water always finds a way into the tightest pack. Clothes should be packed in plastic bags. The heavy Zip-lock freezer bags are the easiest and most compact.
« Sleeping bag: Sleeping bag stuff sacks, though advertised as waterproofed, should be lined with a plastic garbage bag, especially if you are stuffing a down bag. Down gets wet and stays wet, for a long time. It is impossible to get a good night's sleep in a wet down sleeping bag, and rest is very important on the trail.
« Sleeping pad: A sleeping pad makes sleeping much more comfortable and insulates the body against the cold ground.
« Soup bowl and spoon: Enough to eat the average trail meal. Complex mess kits with multiple plates, bowls and utensils are good for in-camp use, but add unnecessary weight when on trail.
« Bar of soap: Wet soap has a tendency to get all over everything in a pack. Pack it in a zip-loc!
« Toothbrush & toothpaste: One or two small tubes of toothpaste may be shared by an entire patrol.
« Bandanas: Bandanas are lightweight, quick drying items that may be used as towels for swimming or bathing.
« Suntan lotion: Sitting in a canoe for several hours at a stretch on a nice day exposes you to a lot of sun. Again, one or two tubes of suntan oil may be shared by an entire patrol.
« A small flashlight with new batteries: Great big mag lights are heavy and unnecessary. A small, pocket sized light is sufficient light to get around a campsite at night.
The list is suggested personal gear, proposed so that the individual Scout will remember those items that will keep him comfortable. Group equipment, such as tents, tarps and cooking gear should not be forgotten. Quantity, packing and use of such group gear should be at the discretion of the voyageur and the Unit Leaders.
And, most important, never forget your toilet paper!!!!!!
Suggested contents for First Aid Kit to be furnished by Troop for use on canoe and hiking trails:
Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia
Salt Tablets
Bicarbonate of Soda
Adhesive Bandage Strips, many, assorted
Snake Bite Kit
Thermometer (oral)
Merthiolate, Aqueus, 1:1000 to 1:2000 in dark bottle
Hydrogen Peroxide
Waterproof Box (e.g. Fishing Tackle Box)
"Q-Tips"
Aspirin/Tylenol
Halezone or Iodine Tablets
1 - 1/2-inch Adhesive Tape
1 - 2-inch Adhesive Tape
2 - 1-inch Roller Bandage
2 - 2-inch Roller Bandage
1 - Elastic Roller Bandage
2 - Triangular Bandages
Check-In: Be sure to have everyone's medical form before you leave home. All forms must be signed by both the parent and a physician. Anyone without a complete medical form cannot be in camp.
Please notify us in advance of your planned time of arrival at Floodwood the day you scheduled to start your Adirondack Adventure. You will be assigned a campsite, proceed through medical check and swim check. The Staff will acquaint you with the facilities and help you with your itinerary.
The site you are in before you leave on your trip may not be the site you will be in when you return. The camp will store any equipment you do not take on your trip and cannot store in your own vehicles.
Ø Scouts are not permitted in any buildings other than the Trading Post or Medical Building during hours of operation.
Ø Running and horseplay have no place at Scout Camps.
Ø Water and electrical boxes are not to be tampered with.
Ø Maintenance and generator sheds are off limits to all scouts and leaders.
Ø Standing trees, living or dead, are not to be cut without permission from the Ranger.
Ø Trapping of small animals is not permitted. Do not feed or touch any animals. Animals in the Adirondacks are potential disease carriers.
Ø Sheath knives, weapons, fireworks, chain saws, firearms, archery equipment, radios and other electronic devices are not permitted.
Food is picked up three times daily, before each meal, at the Commissary. Food is distributed in food "buckets" attached to pack frames which are provided to each patrol and kept in the patrol site. Food is organized for crews of up to twelve scouts and leaders. Correct crew numbers are necessary to assure you receive the right quantities of food. Any special dietary requirements must be arranged in advance. Trail food is arranged through your Voyageur.
At food pickup, a scout from each crew arrives with a clean food bucket which is exchanged for one filled with the food for the meal. He should check it (while still at the Commissary) against the food list provided to be sure no items are missing. This is important since by the time you get back to your patrol site and realize something is missing, the commissary may be closed.
Milk and perishables must be properly "sumped" in the troop site if not finished at meals. All food must be removed from the unit sites after dinner and returned to the commissary during food return. Food must not be left in the site overnight - it attracts unwanted visitors.
The Patrol Method is used for cooking. The crew leader should post a schedule of duties that rotates daily. Included with the food will be a set of instructions for preparing the meal. Follow instructions carefully. Watch out for eggs at breakfast that need to be boiled for egg salad at lunch, or brownie mix at lunch that needs to be prepared during the afternoon for dinner. Cook all food provided according to instructions. Don't forget to start boiling your water for clean up as you prepare your meal.
All dishes are washed using the "Three Pot Method". Fill two wash buckets with water and bring them to a rolling boil as you are cooking and eating the meal. When ready for cleanup, scrape all plates and pots into the trash. Pour liquids only down the sump. Leave one bucket on the fire at a rolling boil and toss in a sanitizer tablet; this is your sanitize water. Take the other bucket of boiling water and pour some into a wash tub, adding cold water to temperature; this is your wash bucket. The remaining boiling water is used as a rinse bucket. Starting with cleanest dishes (silverware, cup and plates), wash them first in the wash bucket, then rinse off the soap in the rinse bucket and sanitize them in the boiling sanitize bucket, still on the fire. Dishes are left to air dry. Repeat with the remaining dishes, washing the dirtiest pots last.
Your patrol box and table should be cleaned after every meal. Wash food stains off the table using the sanitize water and bleach (available at the Quartermaster) if necessary. Sump screens need cleaning after every meal. Your trash can should be cleaned daily after dinner.
Dispose of all perishables after every meal - milk, butter, mayonnaise, fruit and meats.
Don't throw liquids in the trash; use the sump. Burn paper trash in the fire (no food). Place all other trash in the trash bag in your trash can.
Bring trash up to the Commissary Porch before 9:00 pm.
Be careful with trash in your site, and clean up after yourselves well. Clean up all spills and messes as they occur. Once trash smells are on the ground and in your site, creatures less intelligent than scouts have trouble telling the food is gone and pay unwanted visits.
The following emergency signals on the camp siren will be used:
Continuous blast...............Fire
Intermittent blast...............Waterfront Emergency
Three Short blasts............All Clear
Protective Measures:• Enforce "No Flames In Tent" policy and post on all tents.
• Keep all open flames away from tents or tarps.
• Organize and use Scout Fireguard Plan in each site.
· Keep fire fighting equipment nearby and maintain water and
sand at each tent.
· Conduct fire drills and check equipment. Inform scouts
and leaders of fire policies and plans
• Post emergency numbers by telephone.
• Have escape plans and review with scouts and leaders.
• Properly store flammable materials and post warning signs
near storage areas.
• Maintain a stove and fuel policy.
Sudden Storm: In the event of a sudden storm, the lookout will sound the signal calling all swimmers and boats to shore. All swimmers will exit the water and assemble on the shore for a "buddy check". Upon completing a satisfactory "buddy check", each group will proceed to the nearest large, permanent shelter until it is safe to return to the swimming area or the campers' respective tents.
Electrical Storms: At the first sign of a possible electrical storm, staff will clear the lake of all swimmers and boaters. All boats and canoes will be returned to the docks. In the event of a sudden, severe storm boaters and canoeists will immediately beach their boats or canoes at the nearest shore point. Take appropriate cover from lightning - avoid high ground, trees and open fields.
High Winds: In the event of high winds, look for unsteady or dead trees and avoid them. Secure gear and tents, dropping canvas if necessary. Seek natural cover.
Severe Storms: In the event of a severe storm, or severe storm warning, troops will be posted on the progress of the storm as forecasted. If deemed necessary, appropriate action will be taken to remove people from the area.
Injuries: The Voyager or Unit Leader will administer the necessary and appropriate first aid. If it is necessary for the Voyager or Unit Leader to leave the group, they should be assembled and supervised by appropriate leadership. At the earliest possible opportunity, notification will be made to the Camp Director.
Hypothermia: Hypothermia is a distinct and realistic possibility in the Adirondacks. All Voyagers and trek leaders will be trained in the recognition of signs and symptoms of hypothermia and proper first aid procedures. Voyagers and trek leaders should keep close lookout for these signs among trek members and take appropriate action before potential problems occur.
Lost Trek: A trek itinerary must be filed in camp before any trek. If a trek is six hours overdue, or less at the Camp Director's discretion, the DEC will be contacted and a copy of the trek itinerary made available to them. An open line of communication between the DEC and camp shall be maintained according to emergency procedures.
Lost Camper: In the event a camper is unaccounted for while on a trek, the group should assemble at the nearest safe spot as determined by the Voyager or group leader. The group should be left with adequate responsible supervision and the group contained while the Voyager and trek leaders conduct a hasty search according to accepted procedures.
In the event a trek member becomes separated from the trek group, he should wait for the group at the point where he realized he had lost the trek. A search will be conducted for him. If canoeing, the canoeist should put ashore and stay near the shoreline with some kind of marker to attract attention.
Fire: In the event of a fire, the camp office will be notified by radio or runner. All buildings are equipped with fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. Fire fighting equipment will be located in all buildings and behind all latrines. Fire will be signaled by a continuous blast on the camp siren and by word-of-mouth. The Camp Ranger will be in charge. Unit leaders will assemble and contain all scouts in their troop site unless given other directions. Each unit will take attendance and insure all scouts are accounted for. Under no circumstances will scouts or leaders be allowed to leave their troop site or other designated area.
Waterfront Accident: A "buddy check" will be conducted. If necessary all scout swimmers, boaters and water-skiers will be called to shore. Rollins Staff will administer necessary first aid. Intermittent blasts will be sounded on the air horn.
Procedures for a "Wayward Buddy Tag" : "Buddy Checks" will be performed periodically for both bathers and boaters. When called, bathers and boaters will join with their respective "buddy" to be counted. All bathers and boaters will have placed tags on the "Buddy Board". In the event of a wayward tag, procedures will be followed to determine:
a) If the bather/boater has misplaced their tag (perhaps because they left the waterfront area without removing it from the board, etc.), or
b) If the bather/boater has been lost in the water.
If the bather/boater has been lost in the water, the camp siren will be sounded with several intermittent blasts. All scouts and scouters will report to their sites with their unit leaders and assemble. Attendance will be taken and a head count and roll call performed to account for all unit personnel. An attempt to account for the missing bather/boater will be made in his site. Staff members have specific duties to perform and a pre-arranged action plan will be implemented in the event of a lost bather/boater.
Animals: Under no circumstances should any campers or staff approach a wild animal. This includes anything from chipmunks to bears. Under no circumstances should anyone try to attract animals. Deliberately leaving food out for the animals is dangerous and unacceptable behavior.
Rabid Animals: Rabies is becoming an increasingly common problem. If a large wild animal or any animal showing signs of rabies wanders into camp, clear the area immediately of all campers and notify the Health Officer, Camp Director and Ranger without delay. Any animals encountered should be avoided.
Bears: Black Bears can weigh up to 800 pounds. Although primarily a vegetarian whose natural preferences are berries, insects, beechnuts and fruits, they do occasionally eat carcasses of winter kills and small animals, including fish. The black bear will also take advantage of other food sources - such as apples, corn, jelly, cookies, candy, etc.
If you see a bear - stop immediately. This may be one of the few opportunities you may have to observe a wild black bear. If wind currents do not carry your scent, it may not detect your presence due to its poor eyesight. If you stand still, the bear may not be able to distinguish you from a tree. If the bear starts to approach or if you become uncomfortable, blow a whistle, clap your hands, and shout to alert him to your presence. Once aware of you, the bear will most likely flee. If not, walk away slowly and leave the area. Move away from any food or cooking areas; the bear is most likely to be interested in them and not you. Do not attempt to attract, feed, annoy or provoke the bear. Stay your distance. Do not come between a mother and her cub.
Ø The maximum size of all canoe treks is 12, including leaders and staff. Treks with 9 or more persons require a permit from a DEC ranger. All treks require two adult unit leaders (one of whom must be over 21), and a Voyager, or two leaders familiar with the trek with at least one certified in advanced first aid, RTL or EMT. In Middle and Lower Saranac Lakes, campsites have a maximum capacity of 6.
Ø All treks must be briefed by the Voyagers before departure.
Ø Two copies of the map(s) of the area must be carried by the trek leader.
Ø The trek leader must have at least one compass.
Ø A list of emergency phone numbers and procedures will be issued to each trek leader.
Ø The "buddy system" will be used at all times.
Ø Trek leaders must abide by all national, state and local laws as well as the policies of the Boy Scouts of America, including rules and regulations for leadership requirements.
Ø First Aid kits, and medical releases must be carried by the trek leader.
Ø All trek leaders and Scouts will have completed a physical examination by a qualified physician within the last 3 years. (Adults over 40 within the last year.) Additionally all trek members will complete a medical re-check at base camp before departure.
Ø Each hiker should be able to see the hiker in front of him and at his rear at all times. Canoe treks must always canoe as a group. A responsible leader will always bring up the rear of all treks, afoot or afloat, and will be responsible for keeping the group together.
Ø PFD's must be worn at all times while afloat. The Safety Afloat program will be followed when canoeing or boating.
Ø All Scouts and Leaders will complete a swim test before being allowed on a canoe trek. Non-swimmers will be allowed in canoes only with a lifeguard certified by ARC, WSI or BSA.
Gear: A Scout is prepared! Proper foul-weather gear will be carried by all trek members. This includes rain and cool weather gear.
All food must be suspended off the ground in a "bear bag" overnight.
Ø All use of stoves and liquid fuel will be in accordance with the National BSA policy.
Ø Adult supervision is required when using all stoves, and liquid or compressed fuels.
Ø Stoves should never be used inside tents. Avoid flame hazards. Additionally, there is a danger of fire and poisoning by odorless gas fumes - avoid confined areas. Refuel and light stoves outdoors where there is plenty of fresh air.
Ø Before lighting burners, make sure all fuel caps on stoves and fuel containers are secure. Do not loosen caps of hot stoves.
Ø Be alert for possible flameups - keep your head, and flammable objects clear, especially when lighting or adjusting the stove. Avoid operating stoves in tight quarters.
Ø Don't overload a stove with heavy or unstable pots. Make sure all pots are stable and well balanced. Use stoves only on stable, level surfaces that will not be affected by heat.
Ø Never leave a lit stove unattended.
Ø Let hot stoves cool before refilling tanks. Refill stoves and store fuel away from cooking areas and open flames such as other stoves, candles, lanterns and fires. Never use a lantern when filling tanks or lighting stoves.
Ø Keep all fuel canisters and bottles away from fire, stoves and other heat sources. If heated, they may explode. Never attempt to warm fuel cylinders.
Ø Do not let liquid fuels contact skin and clothing. Liquid fuels can freeze flesh if cold. Fuel absorbed in clothing can catch fire.
Ø Fuel bottles in sites or on treks should be kept by responsible adults.
Ø All excess or bulk fuel must be stored in a storage area reserved for flammable fuels and materials. Leaders should check all excess fuel with the Quartermaster, who will store it. Leaders are permitted to keep fuel only in stoves or fuel bottles made of spun aluminum with secure caps. Coleman fuel cans must be stored by the Quartermaster since the lids are not secure.
Stoves: The Liquid Fuel and Stove Policy will be followed at all times.
• Stoves are to be used only with knowledgeable adult supervision.
• Fuel must be stored in approved, aluminum-spun container bottles of no more than 48 oz. Bulk fuel containers will not be permitted on treks or in campsites.
• Refill stoves only when cool and away from flames, food, and cooking areas.
• All stoves should be checked to assure proper operation before and after treks.
Campsites and Fires: Campsites must be in established areas,
within 50 feet of state approved markers.
Ø No more than three nights in one campsite.
Ø Latrines must be 150 feet from water sources.
Ø Use only dead or down wood.
Ø Fires, where permitted, are allowed for cooking, smudge or warming. Small fellowship fires are also permissible. Use only existing fire rings.
Ø Fires should be kept small, and never left unattended.
Ø Fires must be completely out before leaving the site. The "Bare hand, cold fire" rule will be used.
• Always follow general health and safety rules.
• The trek leader must carry a first aid kit that includes items to accommodate injuries that might occur on the trail (e.g. blisters, sprains, small wounds).
• Proper footwear is required. All trek members must wear waterproof, ankle supporting boots with two pairs of socks. Boots must be broken-in, of a type appropriate for the trek, and well-fitting.
• Take proper care of your feet. Keep them clean and dry, change socks daily or when wet.
• Be aware of possible changes in temperature, especially cooler temperatures at higher elevations and resulting from sudden weather changes. Dress and bring clothing appropriate to expected conditions.
• Carry plenty of water to prevent dehydration (2 liters per person per day minimum), and know the location of safe backup sources along your route of travel. Dehydration can lead to hypothermia.
• Never hike alone!
• Do not hike after dark. If your trek inadvertently must hike after dark, be extremely careful.
• Be alert when climbing steep, rocky, mountainous slopes.
• Never throw anything from cliff tops.
• Watch your footing; always step on solid ground.
• If you need assistance, go to a ranger's station marked on your map.
• All hiking and backpacking treks will make use of any registers available, signing in, listing trek plans (where applicable) and signing out upon departure.
Note: Only those scouts and leaders who have successfully passed their swim test and have been designated swimmers may participate in canoe treks.
Ø Check the condition of all equipment before your trek.
Ø PFD's (personal floatation devices) must be worn at all times on the water.
Ø Use the "wet shoe" policy of wearing shoes, sneakers, sport sandals, aqua-socks or other soled footwear when embarking or disembarking from the canoe to the shore.
Ø The "buddy system" must be used at all times.
Ø No Horseplay! This damages equipment and can result in injuries.
Ø Canoes must leave the water and seek shore at any sign of thunder, lightning, or severe storms.
Ø You should kneel in the canoe at all times. Never sit on the gunwales or thwarts.
Ø Sign in at all Ranger Checkpoints and Registers (normally located at any canoe portage).
Ø Take precautions to avoid sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Wear a hat and T-shirt. Use sunscreen, especially on ears and legs. Drink plenty of water. Regulate salt intake.
Ø On large lakes crowded with people and power boats, be sure to cross their wakes perpendicularly.
Ø No treks may canoe white water without first meeting all National BSA requirements (e.g. helmets, etc.).
Ø All canoes in your trek must be close enough so that you can communicate clearly between them.
Ø All gear must be securely tied into the canoe.
Ø All canoe treks will abide by all National BSA policies, including Safety Afloat. There is no swimming allowed on treks except in State-designated swim areas with Lifeguards on duty. Wading in water less than two feet deep for purposes of walking or cleaning canoes is not considered swimming.
Ø All canoe treks will be lead by a Voyager or other leaders proficient in canoeing as demonstrated to the Camp Director.
Health and Medical: In all wilderness areas, first aid and health care is important. In remote locations and on treks definitive medical care cannot always be provided immediately. All units should keep a first aid kit in their sites and carry one on all hikes, campouts and treks. Medical problems and injuries should be treated immediately to prevent further complications which can arise in the wilderness. A Health Officer will be available at Rollins Pond at all times.
All injuries, no matter how small, must be reported. In the event of minor injuries, the scout or scouter should report for sick call at the next available time.
We all need to be vigilant for potential health and safety problems and bring them to the immediate attention of the Health Officer. Pay attention to health concerns in your unit. If scouts are not exhibiting the normally healthy appetite for scouts their age, and food tastes are not involved, it would be prudent to ask if the scout is feeling OK.
Encourage proper hygiene in camp and on treks. Scouts seem to have a habit of naturally attracting dirt, even on the way back from the showers. Remember, "A Scout is clean."
Clean, dry clothing is also important. Scouts should keep their tents in order and protect their clothes from getting wet and damp. You may want to question the scout who wears the same clothes every day or who wears his swimsuit all the time. Scouts should also change into clean clothes at night for sleeping. The temperature drops during the night sometimes significantly, and clothes damp from the day's activities can be chilly and can lead to hypothermia as well as smelly scouts.
Keep food out of your site and definitely out of all tents to avoid animals. While cases of rabies in the northern Adirondacks are extremely rare, watch out for animals acting strangely and report them to the Ranger, Health Officer or Camp Director.
Medical Forms: All Scouts are required to have a physical within the last 3 years. A medical form (#4412A) must be filled out and signed by the parent and physician. New York State requires records of certain immunizations be provided and they should be filled out where indicated on the form. Do not send the medical forms to Council! The Scoutmaster should collect them in advance and check them over for completeness and signatures. Scouts who arrive in camp without medical forms must be sent home according to New York State health regulations.
Leaders must also have properly filled out medical forms. Adults over 40 must have had a physical within the last year.
Medical Facilities: All Floodwood staff members are trained in First Aid, and hospital facilities are available in Saranac Lake should they become necessary.
Outdoor living and wilderness camping occasionally lead to minor cuts, scratches and injuries associated with active, growing boys. Our excellent program stresses safety, and any injuries that do occur are reported to our Medical Staff. In the event of a serious injury, appropriate emergency medical care will be administered and the parent will be notified as soon as possible.
Medications and Allergies: Any medication must be labeled with the name and clear instructions for use and administration. Phrases such as "Take as needed" are unhelpful. All medication should be given to the Scoutmaster for safekeeping. While we prefer to keep all medication at the Medical Building so we can be sure it is being taken as needed, we realize that this is not always possible, especially on treks out of camp. Any allergies should be noted on the medical form and the Scoutmaster should be informed. He should also be aware of any special diet requirements so he can inform the camp in advance.
Telephone: The telephone at Floodwood is for camp business and emergency use only. There is no telephone or pay phone available for scouts to call home. Please inform parents that there is no way to call and speak to campers except in an emergency. In such an emergency it may take several hours before a message can be relayed, even longer if the troop is out of camp on a trek.
In the event of an emergency, messages can be left during normal business hours at the Council Service Center in Fair Lawn, at (201) 791-8000. The emergency telephone number for Floodwood is (518) 891-4460.
Mail: Mail is picked up and delivered daily to the Post Office in Lake Clear, NY. The address is:
Scout's Name -- Troop #
Floodwood Mt. Reservation
Post Office Box 251
Lake Clear, NY 12945
Visitors: Floodwood is not very accessible and therefore visitors are not customary. If you do plan on visiting, please coordinate schedules and program plans with your unit to avoid disappointments. All visitors who do drop by must register at the main office on arrival. Meals, if arranged far enough in advance, can be made available at a nominal fee. Visitors are not permitted to stay overnight.
Substance and Alcohol Abuse: The Boy Scouts of America has explicit and firm policies regarding unacceptable behavior. These policies are not debatable issues, and anyone unwilling to abide by them will not be allowed in camp and/or will be told to leave.
Possession, consumption or acting under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs or substances, however mild, will not be tolerated on the property of the Boy Scouts of America.
Smoking is never permitted by youth under the age of 18. Smoking is not allowed where posted, in any camp buildings, waterfronts, or at any camp-wide assemblies. Smoking is never permitted inside tents. Smokers bear the burden of smoking responsibly. Carelessness can cause inadvertent fires. Cigarette butts have a way of lasting almost forever - please dispose of them properly. If you must smoke, please be conscious of others and the example you are setting.
Privacy: Basic courtesy and common sense apply. While at Rollins Pond, a unit's site is that unit's home and you should visit only if invited. Since many units depart camp for several days at a time, please keep your scouts away from sites that aren't yours. Also, please respect the rights and privacy of those who are giving Scouting so much by serving on our staff. The staff areas are for staff only and scouts and leaders are not permitted in any staff areas.
Automobiles: All vehicles must be registered with the camp. Registration papers, a driver's license and proof of insurance are required. Scouts of any age are not permitted to bring vehicles, including motorbikes or motorcycles, to camp. No personal vehicles are allowed past the parking lot or on any camp roads. Vehicles are not permitted in the sites at any time. Please don't ask if you can drive into sites or drop off equipment. We will attempt to accommodate transportation of your troop gear in and out of your troop site.
What Scouts should not bring to Floodwood: Personal firearms and archery equipment are not permitted. Please be sure no such items are packed. Sheath knives do not belong in Scout Camps. Only folding knives are permitted. Please also leave radios, playing cards and comic books at home. Also not permitted are fireworks, pets and chain saws. Finally, it is best if valuables are left at home.
Accident Insurance: Accident Insurance is provided for all campers subject to certain maximum limitations. (A copy of the policy is available through the Council Service Center.) Claims in excess of these limits must be borne by either the unit's or the individual's policy.
Laundry: There are no laundry facilities at Rollins Pond, so scouts should bring clothes to last the length of their stay. Clothes should be stored in plastic bags to prevent them from getting wet or damp. Scouts wishing to wash laundry may do so in buckets supplied by the camp, provided they bring liquid detergent.
Tents: During their stay at the Adventure Base, Scouts sleep two to a tent in canvas wall tents with wooden platforms, or in their own lightweight trek tents. Cots are not provided. Most Scouts sleep on air mattresses or foam pads which are also desirable for use on treks out of camp.
Footgear: Proper footwear is required at all times, other than the obvious exceptions, such as when swimming. Boots with good ankle support and stiff soles will be necessary for hiking rugged trails, and an old pair of sneakers should also be brought for getting in and out of canoes on canoe trips. Adirondack canoe waters are kept relatively clear of debris, but the rocks can be sharp and jagged. Footwear is required while canoeing. A cut foot can lead to rapid infection and an unpleasant stay in the Health Lodge or the hospital.
Spending Money and Trading Post: A well stocked trading post is available for the purchase of camp souvenirs, Scouting literature, small equipment, candy, ice cream, soda and other items. Scouts seem to spend, on average, about $10 to $15 per week in addition to purchasing memorabilia items such as patches, mugs, T-shirts and hats. An extra $15-$20 should be adequate for these items. Please discourage Scouts from bringing too much money.
Showers: Hot shower facilities are provided.
Religious Opportunities: The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no boy can grow into a solid citizen without recognizing his obligation to God. Scouting has enjoyed the enthusiastic cooperation of nearly every religious faith in America. This is due in large part to the fact that the BSA recognizes religion as an integral part of the character-building process and encourages boys to adhere to the beliefs and practices of their own faith. The twelfth point of the Scout Law requires that religious beliefs and needs be respected and observed.
While at Floodwood, your unit will be cooking its own meals, both in and out of base camp. As part of the Scout Law, "A Scout is Reverent", and every patrol is encouraged to say grace before each meal. Below are some, which have been approved by the Protestant, Catholic, Jewish and Mormon Committees on Scouting.
Lord whose mountains, forests, lakes and streams are here for us
to learn the wonder that is Yours, guide us in understanding so that we might see Your trail and follow Your way
wherever You may lead us.
For food for raiment, for life, for opportunity, for friendship and fellowship,
we thank Thee, O Lord.
Gracious Giver of all good, Thee we thank for rest and food.
Grant that all we do or say, in Thy service be this day.
Our Father, we thank Thee, for this new day and for Thy loving care.
Help us to be mindful of thee in these happy, sunlit hours.
Heavenly Father, we thank Thee for they care through the night and for this new day. Guide us by Thy Spirit, and at the close of this day may we not be ashamed before Thee.
Father for this noon-day meal, we would speak the praise we feel.
Health and strength we have from Thee, help us Lord to Faithful be.
Heavenly Father, help us to see the beautiful things in earth and sky which are tokens of Thy love. Walk with us in the days we spend together here.
May the food we eat and all Thy blessings help us to better serve Thee.
Our Father in Heaven, as the day leads on, let us not forget our obligation to honor and serve Thee. We thank Thee for these gifts of Thy bounty. Bless them to our use
and our lives to Thy Service.
Tireless Guardian on our way, Thou hast kept us well this day.
While we thank Thee, we request care continued, pardon, rest.
Heavenly Father, we thank Thee for this day and for Thy presence in it.
Forgive us if we have not made it a better day and help us to be tomorrow
what we have failed to be today.
Our Father, God, we thank Thee for this evening meal.
As Thou has been mindful of us, so help us to be mindful of Thee,
that we may know and do Thy will.
Our Father in Heaven, Thou hast given us all things richly to enjoy. We bring our thanks to Thee at this evening meal. Bless us as we partake of this food,
and keep us mindful of the needs of others.
For health and strength and daily food, we give Thee thanks, O Lord.
For this and all Thy mercies, Lord, make us grateful.
For food and health and friendship, we give Thee thanks, O Lord.
We thank Thee, our Heavenly Father, for this food.
Bless us as we partake of it that it may strengthen us for Thy service.
May the Great Master of all Scouts be with us 'til we meet again.