Outdoor Leadership Skills
Every Boy Deserves a Trained Leader
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders (OLSWL)
Introduction To Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS)
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
New Syllabus
Now available from BSA Supply Division (order #34162)
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is a one-day training event that introduces leaders and parents to the skills needed to plan and conduct pack outdoor activities, particularly pack camping.
Participants who complete this training course will
- Understand the focus of the Cub Scout level of the BSA outdoor program.
- Gain the skills needed to plan and carry out a successful Cub Scout-level overnight activity.
- Learn more about the resources available from the BSA for carrying out this activity.
- BSA rules and guidelines for camping
- Health and safety in the outdoors
- Camping equipment
- Finding great camp out locations
- Cub scout cooking
- Campfire planning
- Nature hikes and games
This training is required for any adult who is in charge of planning a pack camp out
What is B.A.L.O.O.? It is an acronym for Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation. A basic outdoor training to understand the laws of BSA camp programming and acquire the skills & confidence to plan Cub Scout camping, by increasing your knowledge of the resources available from BSA, and to carry out a Cub Scout camping activity. You will be learning how to run a successful Cub Scout camping activity using national and local council standards as guidelines.
B.A.L.O.O. is fun and learning that prepares pack leaders to plan and carry out "entry-level" outdoor experiences. Ask a boy why he wants to be a Cub Scout, and nine times out of 10 he'll answer "to go camping." That's why Cub Scouting has introduced B.A.L.O.O. training, so boys, along with their parents or some other adult, can participate in a successful overnight camping experience.
A pack camp-out, at a location approved by the local council, is a great way for families to have fun and build confidence in outdoor skills. This kind of camping isn't the rugged high adventure outing geared toward older Boy Scouts. It's what you might call "soft camping," where families can simply drive up to a campsite and pitch a tent within a few feet of their vehicle's rear bumper. The emphasis is on family fun activities that don't require lots of advanced outdoor skills.
How do you get started? A member of your pack committee needs to attend B.A.L.O.O. training. The B.A.L.O.O. session will give your pack's outdoor activity leader the tools to conduct a safe and successful overnight.
First there are sessions about the why and how of Cub Scout camping—planning, equipment, meal preparation, campfire programs. Then there are hands on sessions about fire safety, stoves, and lanterns; first aid and sanitation; nature hikes and games; and cooking. Scattered throughout the training are plenty of the four S's: songs, stunts, stories, and showmanship. With proper planning and your BALOO-trained leader, your pack should be set for a fun and exciting weekend event.
The Official BSA Field Uniform ("Class A") is appropriate attire for BALOO.
Overview
The revised Camping guidelines for 2000/2001 give councils the authority to allow Cub Scout packs to conduct a pack camp out (overnight) activity, as long as the activity is conducted at a council-approved location and is under the direction of a leader in the pack trained to do so. The new training course to prepare these leaders is called Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO for short).
The target participant for BALOO training is a new Cub Scout leader with a desire to plan and carry-out an entry-level outdoor experience for the pack. Successful completion of this training will result in an increased level of confidence and a willingness to plan an age-appropriate pack overnighter.
The target participant for BALOO training is a new Cub Scout leader with a desire to plan and carry-out an entry-level outdoor experience for the pack. Successful completion of this training will result in an increased level of confidence and a willingness to plan an age-appropriate pack overnighter.
- Based on the purposes of Cub Scouting
- Successful in whetting the appetite of the Cub Scout, his parents, and the leaders to want to do more in the outdoors
- A fun time with family and friends
Chapter 10 of the Cub Scout leader Book (as revised in 2000) has more information and background on this outdoor activity area.
BALOO training is the first step in the BSA outdoor training program, and does not replace any existing training, nor should it be merged with any other training. For this program to be implemented successfully, BALOO must retain a clear spot as the entry-level, introductory outdoor training of the BSA. This training is not intended as an overnight experience, but rather a preparation of the Cub Scout leader interested in learning about overnight camping activities.
BALOO Learning Objectives
By completing this training course the participants will:
- Understand the focus of the Cub Scout level of the BSA program
- Acquire the skills and confidence necessary to plan and carry out a successful Cub Scout-level overnight activity.
- Increase their knowledge of the resources available from the BSA for carrying out this activity.
Scheduling
The local council and district training committees should schedule this training as needed, depending on number of units, facilities available, and interest level. Scheduling considerations should be fall and spring, as determined by location, weather conditions, and recruiting practices. Once scheduled, promotion is essential.
Target Participant
The BALOO target participant is a parent who is not already part of the pack leadership team. This position should be similar to the person in charge of the pinewood derby, blue and gold banquet, or other special pack activity. He or she may not have already attended Cub Scout Leader Basic Training or Youth Protection, but should be encouraged to do so before or as part of this training.
Where to Conduct BALOO
The ideal location for this training course will combine an indoor facility with adequate restrooms facilities and classroom training areas with an outdoor facility capable of supporting the campfire, lunch and round robin activities. An existing Scout camp with a training center will be ideal. Select your locations away from distractions and other activities. Obtain any necessary permits, including fire permits, as cooking is a scheduled part of this activity. Arrange for wood or charcoal as necessary. Consider informing the participants to bring water bottles, sunscreen, etc.
Local Considerations
This course will be most helpful to its target audience if you and your staff personalize it for your council and probable camping areas. There is a "Local Considerations" page in the syllabus.
Timing
This training course has a tight schedule, and should last no more than six hours. If your outdoor and indoor facilities are some distance apart, it may be necessary to adjust starting times to accommodate travel between them. Be sure to START ON TIME, END ON TIME!
Syllabus and Handouts
The syllabus is available through the Supply Division (order #34162.) Its appendix contains handouts that will enrich the participants' experience and understanding of the training.
Attitude
Remember, participants are in this training to be introduced to the outdoors, and quite possibly to Cub Scout training as a whole. The attitude your trainers show them will create a learning environment, and help build in them the confidence they will need to succeed in this activity. Keep focused on the goals of this training and on the pack's camping program, and have some good Cub Scout fun.
Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders
Webelos den camp outs serve to move the Webelos Scout to the next level of the BSA's ever-increasing challenge in the outdoors. The boy and his parent will be introduced to the basics of Boy Scout camping. A trained Webelos den leader who has completed position-specific training and Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders should conduct these events. Webelos dens are encouraged to participate in joint den-troop camp outs, particularly in the fifth-grade year.
Designed specifically for Webelos den leaders and their assistants, the Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders course teaches outdoor-related skills through demonstration and hands-on practice. Webelos den leaders should attend this training before conducting Webelos overnight camping with the boys and parents of the den. In addition to covering basic camping skills, this training features planning camp outs and finding resources.
The council and/or district usually offer Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders several times each year. Check with your pack trainer, unit commissioner, district training chair, or the training calendar for dates and locations.
Overview
O*L*S*4*W*L is for any Webelos Den Leader or Pack Leader with a desire to plan and carry out a Webelos level outdoor experience for the boys. When you complete this training, you will have an increased level of confidence and ability to plan an age-appropriate Webelos Den Overnighter!
Goals
The GOAL of this training is to provide you with the skills to assure a Webelos den overnight event that is:
- Age Appropriate
- Based on the purposes of Cub Scouting
- Successful in whetting the appetite of your Scouts, their parents and the leaders who want to do more in the outdoors!
- And will prepare your Webelos Scouts to become Boy Scouts
Elements
Elements of this training are:
- Webelos Outdoor Activities:
- health and safety issues,
- hiking and camping concerns,
- outdoor ceremonies,
- Webelos outdoor-related activities (Outdoorsman, Naturalist, Forester, Geologist),
- values of the outdoor program,
- identifying and conducting Webelos outdoor activities.
- Flag Ceremonies:
- procedures for flag raising,
- lowering and folding.
- Planning Overnight Camp outs:
- key factors,
- planning and conducting a Webelos overnight camp out,
- joint camp outs (with Boy Scout troops),
- council camping opportunities.
- Campfire Planning:
- how to plan and direct successful Den campfires and Outdoor Skill Workshops in the following areas in:
- First Aid
- Cooking and sanitation
- Knots and Ropes
- Campsite selection and tents
- Wood Tools
- Bedding and Weather
- Fire building
- how to plan and direct successful Den campfires and Outdoor Skill Workshops in the following areas in:
Remember always wear your uniform. Items to bring: appropriate clothing for weather, personal articles, Webelos handbook, tent and bedding, skit or song for campfire It is suggested that you have attended Cub Scout Leader Basic Training and Webelos Leader Specifics.
Introduction To Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS)
Outdoor skills are critical to the success of the Scouting program, and Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills will provide leaders with the basic outdoor skills information needed to start a program right.
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills is the required outdoor training for all Scoutmasters, assistant Scoutmasters, and Varsity Scout coaches. The skills taught are based on the outdoor skills found in The Boy Scout Handbook. The course is also ideal for Venturing leaders because it focuses on skills that build confidence and competence in leaders conducting outdoor camping experiences.
The course is a 1 and ½ days to 2 days long, but a leader can move at an accelerated pace by demonstrating mastery of a specific skill. The emphasis is on the skill, rather than on attending the course.
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills, No. 33640
What is it?
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills is a two day hands-on program that gives adult leaders the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the outdoor program. Participation in the course is structured much like participation in a Scout troop, with the patrol method and buddy system evident. Depending on the district and time frame, events may be increased but NOT decreased from the syllabus.
Learning Objectives and Program Events
Interfaith worship
- Explain the importance of religious principle as addressed in the Scout Oath or Promise and Scout Law and the application for membership.
- Strongly emphasize the spiritual ideals of Scouting.
- Discuss the importance of respecting the religious obligations of others.
- Explain the commitments implied through duty to God, reverence toward God, fulfillment of religious duties, and respect for the beliefs of others.
- Describe the firm requirements of some faiths regarding observance of the Sabbath.
- Make provisions for four major faiths - Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, and Mormon - and make other appropriate arrangements based on needs of the local area.
- Show through spirit, example, and program presentation, the development of spiritual values.
- Tell why religious instruction is the responsibility of the parents and religious institution to which the member belongs.
- Plan religious services that reflect an interfaith worship different from a "non-denominational" service - which usually means Protestant and is unsuitable for many faiths, including non-Christians.
- Present a suitable grace at mealtimes.
Campsite Selection
- Train Scouts in selecting, establishing, maintaining, and breaking down campsites with consideration for patrol safety, preventing damage to equipment, and minimizing harm to the environment.
- Pitch a tent.
- Spend at least one night on a patrol or troop camp out. Sleep in a tent you have helped pitch. (Tenderfoot 2)
- On one of these camp outs, select your patrol site and sleep in a tent that you have pitched. (Second Class 2b)
Ropes - Whipping, Tying, and Lashing
- Whip and fuse rope.
- Tie two half hitches and the taut line hitch, and demonstrate how these knots are used for pitching a tent.
- Tie the timber hitch and clove hitch.
- Demonstrate the square, shear, diagonal, tripod, round, and floor lashings, and explain the appropriate and inappropriate uses for these lashings.
- Use the timber hitch and clove hitch to join two or more poles or staves together.
- Use lashing to make a useful camp gadget.
- Tie the bowline knot and tell how it can be used.
- Demonstrate how to whip and fuse the ends of a rope. (Tenderfoot 4a)
- Demonstrate that you know how to tie the following knots and tell what their uses are: two half hitches and the taut-line hitch. (Tenderfoot 4b)
- Discuss when you should and should not use lashings. (First Class 7a)
- Demonstrate tying the timber hitch and clove hitch and their uses in square, shear, and diagonal lashings by joining two or more poles or staves together. (First Class 7b)
- Use lashings to make a useful camp gadget. (First Class 7c)
- Demonstrate tying the bowline knot and describe several ways it can be used. (First Class 8a)
Woods Tools - Knife, Camp Saw, and Axe
- Demonstrate the proper methods when using a pocketknife, camp saw, and axe.
- Properly care for and sharpen woods tools.
- Explain when woods tools should be used.
- Using the knife, saw, and axe properly, prepare tinder, kindling, and fuel for a cooking fire.
- On one camp out, demonstrate proper care, sharpening, and use of the knife, saw, and axe, and describe when they should be used. (Second Class 2c)
- Use the knife, saw, and axe to prepare tinder, kindling, and fuel for a cooking fire. (Second Class 2d)
Fire Site Preparation and Building
- Demonstrate the proper use, safety, maintenance, and care of backpacking stoves and fuel containers.
- List environmental and safety considerations in selecting a fire site and firewood, and the construction, use, and care of a campfire.
- Explain the function and rationale for using fires and whether a ground fire should be built or a backpacking stove should be used.
- Prepare and build a safe, functional, environmentally-sound campfire.
- Explain the types and functions of common fire-starting materials and demonstrate how to light a campfire.
- Explain how to start a fire during inclement weather.
- Demonstrate how to return the fire site to its natural state.
- Discuss when it is appropriate to use a cooking fire and a lightweight stove. Discuss the safety procedures for using both. (Second Class 2e)
- Demonstrate how to light a fire and a lightweight stove. (Second Class 2f)
Cooking
- Plan and budget a nutritious, well-balanced meal for one person and for a patrol.
- Cook a meal for one person and assist with planning, purchasing, and cooking a meal for a patrol.
- Establish a safe, well-organized kitchen and cooking area.
- Explain the importance of sterilizing utensils and cleaning cooking gear.
- Demonstrate the procedures for cleanup.
- Demonstrate and explain proper procedures for handling and storing perishable foods.
- Lead grace at a meal and feel comfortable doing so.
- On a camp out, assist in preparing and cooking one of your patrol's meals. Tell why it is important for each patrol member to share in meal preparation and cleanup, and explain the importance of eating together. (Tenderfoot 3)
- On one camp out, plan and cook over an open fire one hot breakfast or lunch for yourself, selecting foods from each group in the food pyramid. Explain the importance of good nutrition. Tell how to transport, store, and prepare the foods you selected. (Second Class 2g)
- Help plan a patrol menu for one camp out - including breakfast, lunch, and dinner - that requires cooking. Tell how the menu includes food from each group in the food pyramid and meets nutritional needs. (First Class 4a)
- Using the menu planned above, make a list showing the cost and food amounts needed to feed three or more boys and secure the ingredients. (First Class 4b)
- Tell which pans, utensils, and other gear will be needed to cook and serve these meals. (First Class 4c)
- Explain the procedures to follow in the safe handling and storage of fresh meats, dairy products, eggs, vegetables, and other perishable food products. Tell how to properly dispose of camp garbage, cans, plastic containers, and other rubbish. (First Class 4d)
- On one camp out, serve as your patrol's cook. Supervise your assistant(s) in using a stove or building a cooking fire. Prepare the breakfast, lunch, and dinner planned in the assignment above. Lead your patrol in saying grace at the meals and supervise cleanup. (First Class 4e)
First Aid
- Shape your attitudes and approach to first-aid situations.
- Define first aid and explain what a first-aid plan is.
- Describe a systematic approach to first aid.
- Assemble a first-aid kit that includes items for specific injuries.
- Explain the considerations for first aid in pre-trip planning.
- Simple cuts and scratches
- Blisters on the hand and foot
- Minor burns or scalds (first-degree)
- Bites or stings of insects and ticks
- Poisonous snakebite
- Nosebleed
- Frostbite and sunburn
- Show what to do for "hurry cases" of stopped breathing, serious bleeding, and internal poisoning. (Second Class 6a)
- Prepare a personal first-aid kit to take with you on a hike. (Second Class 6b)
- Demonstrate first aid for the following: (Second Class 6c)
- Demonstrate bandages for a sprained ankle and for injuries on the head, the upper arm, and the collarbone. (First Class 8b)
- Show how to transport by yourself, and with one other person, a person: (First Class 8c)
- From a smoke-filled room
- With a sprained ankle, at least 25 yards
- Tell the five most common signs of a heart attack. Explain the steps (procedures) in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). (First Class 8d)
Plant Identification
- Demonstrate knowledge of and respect for animals in your community.
- Explain how you will create the desire to learn more about animals.
- Discuss and identify signs, tracks, nests, and additional evidence of animal life in your community.
- Identify or show evidence of at least 10 kinds of wild animals (birds, mammals, reptiles, fish, mollusks) found in your community. (Second Class 5)
Packing and Hiking Techniques
- Explain the techniques of safe hiking and its benefits for enjoying nature, physical fitness, and nurturing self-reliance (personal growth).
- Explain the who, what, where, when, why, and how of planning a safe hike.
- Tell how to select the right footwear, clothing, and other gear.
- Explain the importance of setting a pace and resting when hiking.
- Pack a neat, well-balanced, and systematically organized backpack or day pack that is comfortable to wear and efficient to use while hiking.
- Demonstrate the ability to pack items for accessibility on the trail.
- Present yourself to you leader, properly dressed, before going on an overnight camping trip. Show the camping gear you will use. Show the right way to pack and carry it. (Tenderfoot 1)
- Explain the rules of safe hiking, both on the highway and cross-country, during the day and at night. Explain what to do if you are lost. (Tenderfoot 5)
- Explain why we use the buddy system in Scouting. (Tenderfoot 9)