Most scouts and scouters know of the ten essentials, but how many can rattle them off? Yet for scouts and ANYONE, going out into the wilderness, even for a day hike, can be potentially dangerous or at least very uncomfortable without these items.

To further complicate things, many folks remember map and compass, as if they were two of the ten. The same with sunglasses and sunscreen. They are really two components of one system - for navigation in the first case and for sun protection in the second.

Here is a "digitized" memory aid I developed to help us all remember what is REALLY essential when heading out into the wilds.

Right Hand

Left Hand

Toss up the Scout sign. Those represent "three elements" you want to protect yourself from; heat, cold, and wet. Think systems!

• Heat - sunscreen, a cap, sunglasses, breathable clothing, convertible pants; whatever it takes to protect you from the sun and heat.
• Cold - a jacket, warm hat, gloves or mittens, and yes, if you are snow camping, a whole lot more.
• Wet - a waterproof hat, poncho or shell, good boots…

Again, think of the systems that will protect you from the elements; heat, cold, and wet.

Next, the thumb and pinky of the right hand, on either side of the "elements." One is food, the other water.

One can survive 3 weeks without food; 3 days without water. Please consider which should be a thumb, and which a pinky.

Cub Scouts use two fingers to make their sign. Think of these as "fire" and "light."

Start a fire? Do you have matches? Are they waterproof? Fire starter? Flint and steel? Do you know how to use them?

Need to see? Make sure you have a flashlight. Need batteries and a bulb? The system can fail without spares! Heat and light are important, but they have to work!

The left thumb - an important digit, is your first aid kit. Think of a band-aid wrapped around it, but know first aid is more than just band aids. Moleskin, anyone?

Only two fingers left; ring and pinky. They're the "tools". The ring finger is for navigation: compass, map, maybe a GPS. Remember batteries for it as well - and know how to use it!

Last but not least is another pinky, which is the second tool; a pocket knife or other tool of your choice.

May this help you remember, and assemble, the ten essential SYSTEMS before your next hike. Finally, you may want to consider what has been described as the eleventh essential - toilet paper!

Enjoy your hike!

Sterling B.