Fieldbook for Women, Men & Everything in Between

FIELDBOOK FOR WOMEN, MEN & EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

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FIELDBOOK

FOR WOMEN, MEN & EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN September 2014 Texts: Ragnhild Tveiten, Lisa Simla and Joakim Joanninge Editor: Ana Flecha Marco Layout, illustration and design: Ana Flecha Marco Made in Bergen

FIELDBOOK FOR WOMEN, MEN & EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

CONTENT EDITORIAL EDITORIAL ON FRILUFTSLIV

#1 TIPS FOR A SAFE TRIP

#2 WHAT TO BRING

#3 HOW TO DRESS FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

#4 HOW TO MAKE FIRE

#5 WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET LOST

#6 WHAT TO DO IN A THUNDERSTORM

At the beginning of the summer 2013, on my way to explore the Arctic with my mum (please allow me to describe our very non-adventurous trip to northern Norway in this way and feel a bit like Dora), I stayed at a guest house in Bergen which was full of books. It was also full of dirt and my mum is still not pleased about this, but that’s another story and shan’t be told any other time.

Anyways, among those books there was one I particularly liked: Fieldbook for Boys and Men (sic.) by the boy scouts of America. That book fascinated me in all possible ways, even though it was explicitly not targeted at my kind.

Earlier that year, on a very secret occasion, I had sung a song with a friend and colleague about how both of us had lied in our job applications (oops!) about being the outdoor types we very much aren’t. These two experiences led me to seek help from the true outdoor types I then had around to compile some handy tips into a handy little fieldbook for boys, girls, men, women and pets. As you might have guessed, this is it. I hope it will help you find the adventurous soul in you.

ON FRILUFTSLIV

Norway is one of the few countries in the world that recognises the right of access to, and passage through, uncultivated land in the countryside, regardless of who owns it. This also applies to cultivated land when it is frozen and snow-covered.

Friluftsliv is a Norwegian word loosely translated as “open air life,” which characterizes Norwegian culture. Norwegians embrace nature and enjoy the outdoors as a way of life.

Ultimately, friluftsliv offers the possibility of recreation, rejuvenation and restoring balance among living things.

The term friluftsliv was first used in print by famous Norwegian writer Henrik Ibsen in 1859. Another important voice for friluftsliv includes 20th century Norwegian philosopher Arne Næss, founder of the deep ecology movement.

Norwegians also relate to several Norwegian adventurers who have an enthusiasm for nature and a desire to explore the world and test their own limits, such as Børge Ousland, a polar explorer and one of National Geographic’s best speakers, or Thor Heyerdahl who is most famous for his balsa raft expedition, Kon Tiki.

The dominant form of Norwegian friluftsliv involves people going out for a walk in nature, either alone or with family and friends, and typically starts at their own home and ends back at their home later in the day.

Adapted from www.visitnorway.com

#1 TIPS FOR A SAFE TRIP

#1

TIPS FOR A SAFE TRIP CHOOSE A TRIP YOU HAVE PREPARED FOR Start with an easy trip and build up towards the bigger expeditions. This goes for you physical fitness, your experience and your mental state. Consider if your trip can be aborted if necessary, can you have a day of rest or can you add on to your trip if you exceed your own expectations. Make a plan B, and maybe plan C or more.

LET SOMEONE KNOW WHERE YOU ARE PLANNING TO GO Tell someone where you plan to go and when you plan to return. Make sure the person understands

what you have told them. The better information you give, the more chance there is for you to be found in an emergency. Make sure you let this person know when you have safely returned and of any changes in your plan. Be careful about making agreements which rely on your mobile phone, it could run out of battery, break, fall in the water or you could be out of range.

LISTEN TO PEOPLE WITH EXPERIENCE Locals and people well experienced with an activity can tell you a lot about conditions and what to look out for. They might also know of special places to go and special things to see. Ask them also about what to do and where to seek shelter in an emergency.

DON’T GO ALONE There is safety in numbers and in case of an accident or emergency you will be very happy to have a friend to look after you or go for help, or even share the misery. Being in a small group also means you can split equipment between you to make your trip easier. Take turns leading the group and sharing decision-making responsibilities.

SHOW RESPECT FOR THE WEATHER AND WEATHER FORECAST Check the weather forecast, but never trust it completely. Always be prepared for worse weather.

Remember that wind and wet can make for lethal cold and that the weather can change quickly. Be

TIPS FOR A SAFE TRIP

prepared for wind, rain and cold, even on short trips.

Always bring the necessary equipment, not only for the trip you want to happen, but also for the trip that might happen. Put warm and waterproof clothes on before it’s too late and you are already wet or cold.

Prevent rather than fix situations. Help others in the group to do so too. You are not stronger then the weakest link.

USE A MAP AND COMPASS Always bring a map and compass, and learn how to use it! Know where you are on the map at all times, so that when the fog or snow comes you are prepared. Trust the compass, the fog will try to trick you. Make sure you always have your map fastened.

It can too easily be taken with the wind.

HIKE, BIKE, OR SKI ONLY ON MARKED TRAILS LET THE SLOWEST PERSON SET THE PACE This is especially important when children are a apart of your group.

TURN AROUND IN TIME There is no shame in turning back. Don’t try to push through bad weather. If you are not sure you will make it to your destination because of the

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conditions, turn back! If you plan a trip on a day with brisk weather, start into the wind. This way you can easier get back.

SAVE YOUR STRENGTH AND TAKE SHELTER IF NECESSARY In challenging conditions, make sure to keep the group close and let the slowest person decide the pace. Avoid getting sweaty and wet. If conditions are too challenging find or make shelter for the group so that you can wait the storm out. Practice making emergency shelters before you leave, think about what you need to make one, and be sure to bring it.

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER Water is heavy to carry, but thirst on the trail is a hazard. Never drink your total supply between refills.

ARRIVE EARLY Plan your trip so that you arrive at your actual campsite with enough daylight to check over the entire site and to set-up camp.

INSPECT THE SITE Look for a level site with enough room to spread out all your gear. A site that has trees on the side of prevailing winds will help block unexpected gusts.

TIPS FOR A SAFE TRIP

BUILD FIRES IN A SAFE AREA Your open fires and fuel-burning appliances must be far enough away from the tent to prevent ignition from sparks, flames, and heat. Never use a flame or any other heating device inside a tent. Use a flashlight or battery-powered light instead.

MAKE SURE YOUR FIRES ARE ALWAYS ATTENDED Be sure you have an area for a fire that cannot spread laterally or vertically, a grill or stone surface is ideal.

When putting the fire out, drown it with water, making sure all embers, coals and sticks are wet.

Embers buried deep within the pile have a tendency to reignite later.

DISPOSE OF TRASH PROPERLY Remember to recycle (use the proper recycling bins if available). Take your rubbish with you.

BEWARE WHEN ENCOUNTERING WILDLIFE To ward off bears, keep your campsite clean, and do not leave food, garbage, coolers, cooking equipment or utensils out in the open.

#2 WHAT TO BRING

#2

WHAT TO BRING

As stated before, when going on a trip, it is important to bring the necessary equipment, not only for the trip you want to happen, but also for the trip that might happen. Make sure you pack smart and don’t forget the essentials. Here’s a handy list of things you should remember to bring in your backpack and first-aid kit.

HIKING SHOES/SLEEPING BAG AND MAT/PHONE/FUNCTIONAL CLOTHING (SEE CHAPTER #3)/WARM INNERWEAR/RAIN CLOTHES/ CAP/GLOVES/SUNGLASSES/SUNSCREEN/TOILET PAPER/TORCH/HEAD TORCH/BOTTLE /THERMO FLASK /COOKER/PAN/GAS/PETROL FOR THE COOKER/SPICERY/PLATE, CUP, CUTLERY/LIGHTER/MATCHES/TEA/ FOOD/MAP AND COMPASS/TENT

TAPE PLASTERS (IN DIFFERENT SIZES) ELASTIC BANDAGE TRIANGULAR BANDAGE COMPRESSES WOUND CLEANSER SCISSOR GLOVES RESCUE SHEET TWEEZERS

#3 HOW TO DRESS FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

#3

HOW TO DRESS FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES LAYER UP The best way to dress for winter is to wear layers.

This gives you flexibility to add or remove layers, depending on the weather and your activity. In general, the three main layers are wicking, insulating and weather protection.

WICKING LAYER:

This is the layer worn next to your skin, usually consisting of long underwear.

Wear thermal underwear made of a synthetic fiber that has wicking power or wool. These fibers will wick (move) moisture away from your skin and pass it through the fabric so it will evaporate. This keeps you warm, dry and comfortable. Silk is also a good, natural fabric that has wicking abilities. Even when it’s cold, you will sweat, especially if youare skiing, skating or moving at all.

Cotton is a no-no. Cotton is great for towels, because cotton soaks up and retains moisture.

That’s precisely why cotton is all wrong for onslope apparel. It absorbs moisture (sweat and snow), and retains it. When the wind blows, you will get very, very cold. Don’t wear cotton athletic socks, cotton jeans, cotton sweatshirts, or cotton t-shirts.

INSULATING LAYER:

This middle layer includes sweaters, vests and pullovers. The purpose of this layer is to keep heat in and cold out, which is accomplished by trapping air between the fibers. Popular insulation materials include: Fleece, a synthetic material which maintains its insulating ability even when wet and spreads the moisture out so it dries quickly.

Wool, which naturally wicks away moisture.

You can wear as many items of middle layer as you need to keep warm. In general several light layers are better, as you can adjust your temperature better.

HOW TO DRESS FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Wear less when moving, and put on a layer when you stop. Unless it is very cold, you only need to wear extra layers on your upper body. And remember: no cotton!

PROTECTION LAYER:

The exterior layer, generally a coat/jacket and pants, serves as your guard against the elements of winter.

It should repel water from snow, sleet or rain and block the wind, while also letting perspiration evaporate. If you have a choice, wear something that has a good fitted hood and can be adjusted around the wrists, waist and ankles.

The best protection layer is not insulated, but a thin shell that lets out moisture, dries quickly and lets you adjust the temperature by what you wear underneath.

Don’t wear jeans. Denim is not waterproof, so water will soak through and you’ll end up cold, wet and miserable.

ACCESSORIZE HEADWEAR:

Up to 60 percent of your body’s heat can escape from an uncovered head, so wearing a hat, headband or helmet is essential when it’s cold. (Tip: If you

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wear a hat, you may be able to wear one less layer on your body.) There are thousands of styles of hats and headbands, usually made from fleece or wool.

A fleece neck gaiter (like a collar) or scarf is a must on cold days.

GLOVES AND MITTENS:

Look for gloves and mittens that are made of wool or fleece, with an attached or detached windproof layer. Mittens, in general, are warmer than gloves, but offer you less dexterity.

Don’t wear gloves or mittens that are too tight. There should be a little air space at the tips of your fingers, which acts as additional insulation.

SOCKS:

One pair of lightweight plus one pair of thick socks works best for keeping your toes toasty. Socks are made from a variety of materials, including polyester, silk, wool and nylon. Some socks have wicking properties similar to long underwear, meaning your feet will stay dry and comfortable.

Resist the temptation of putting on too many pairs of socks. You’ll restrict circulation and actually cause your feet to get colder. Make sure your shoes are big enough; you should be able to wiggle your toes.

HOW TO DRESS FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Don’t forget, cotton makes your toes turn into ice cubes. Do not wear cotton socks.

SUNGLASSES AND GOGGLES:

Sunglasses do much more than make you look cool.

They also protect your eyes from damaging solar radiation. Snow, or any other reflective surface, makes ultraviolet (UV) rays stronger.

BACKPACK:

A small to medium sized backpack is always handy.

You need somewhere to carry your extra insulating layers when you are on the move. Maybe you want to bring a warm drink or something to eat. Remember that if you are dehydrated or hungry, you get colder!

#4 HOW TO MAKE FIRE

#4

HOW TO MAKE FIRE

Rule #1: Make sure that your matches don’t get wet!

LOCATION (where to build your fire) On a non-burnable surface (bare rock is best) away from burnable materials (such as very dry branches

HOW TO MAKE FIRE

close overhead, or dry grasses nearby) close to your camp, but not in the way. Also check wind direction and speed.

WHAT TO BURN Dry wood makes the best fuel. Standing dead wood is usually the best source of dry wood for any fire.

Dry dead branches will burn best, and are also the easiest to harvest.

If it has been raining , then you have to become more creative, looking for dry wood under things, or within things. For example, under rock overhangs, or dense branches. or using the insides of branches that are wet only on the outside.

You will need to gather fuel of different sizes. Small stuff is used to start the fire, and larger branches (larger diameter, that is) are used to maintain the fire once it gets going.

It’s easiest in the long run to sort the fuel into piles based on size. Break the wood up into pieces that are the right size to use for your fire. This little bit of prep work may sound like a bit more work than is necessary, but it makes things easier later on.

Place your fuel piles close enough that you can reach them conveniently, but far enough so that they won’t ignite from sparks thrown from the fire,

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or if a piece of wood falls out of the fire. Also place the pile where you won’t trip over it.

PREPARE THE FIRE Assemble a small teepee of the thinnest twigs you can find in the center of your chosen fire location.

Over this layer some larger twigs. Over that some larger ones, and so on. But stop for now with twigs about the thickness of your index finger. Leave a gap in this teepee, a door, where you can quickly insert your burning tinder, so it makes contact and ignites the smallest twigs of this teepee.

BLOW THE TINDER INTO FLAME Most of the time, a small coal is not enough to actually start a fire. It must be blown into flame for it to be useful. The small coal you created in the preceding step needs to be transferred carefully to tinder. Tinder is some material that, when a coal is placed against it, can be blown into a flame.

TRANSFER THE FLAME FROM TINDER TO THE FIRE Once you have blown the tinder into flame, you must transfer this very quickly to the waiting teepee

HOW TO MAKE FIRE

of sticks. This is where that “door” comes in handy, to quickly get the small flames to the thinnest twigs, which will ignite most quickly.

BUILD UP THE FIRE Once you small teepee of sticks has ignited and is burning, you will need to quickly add larger pieces of wood to keep the fire going. If you simply leave it alone without adding any additional fuel, it will go out.

MAINTAIN THE FIRE While the fire burns you need to add fuel from time to time, in order to keep it burning. Be reasonable and don’t make a fire any larger than you need it to be.

PUT OUT THE FIRE It is absolutely essential that the fire be 100% completely out before you leave it. Plan ahead. If you have a fire for cooking, let it die down a bit when foresee that you will be soon finished your task. Similarly, if you have a fire built for warmth on a cold evening, let it die down a while before you go to bed.

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There are many ways to put out a fire:

water (the most effective and easiest) snow sand

pulling the fire apart and letting it go out The fire and rocks surrounding the fireplace should be cool to touch before you leave. Do not consider the fire to be out until they are.

Pay attention to the possibility that your fire has crept into the ground. It may continue to smolder underground in organic matter or roots. Check for this.

A fire that is not completely and thoroughly put out can potentially flare up later, perhaps even long after you have left the area. Or maybe that same night while you are asleep. A fire that was carelessly extinguished and flares back up can endanger your life and the lives of others, especially as no one may be around to put it out. Not to mention the lives of animals and plants of the surrounding ecosystem.

#5 WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET LOST

#5

WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET LOST Pay close attention to your surroundings and landmarks, and relate this to your location on a map.

Stay calm. Panic is your greatest enemy. Try to remember how you got to your present location.

Go back to the last place where you were sure you have been on the right way.

Trust your map and compass, and do not walk aimlessly. If you are on a trail, don’t leave it.

Stay put if it is nightfall, if you are injured, or if you are near exhaustion.

As a last resort, follow a drainage or stream downhill.

This can be hard, but will often lead to a trail or road.

If you lost your map and compass, you can rely on: SUN

At six o’clock in the morning the sun is in the east, at twelve in the south at six in the evening in the west. During Summer Time everything is a hour later. If you have an analog watch, you can use this to find out the gegraphic directions. Hold the watch horizontal with the short hand to the sun. South is in the direction of the bisecting line between the short hand and 12 o’clock (1 o’clock in Summer Time).

FULL MOON

The full moon is at the opposite site of the sun. At 6 in the evening it is in the east, at 12 at night in the south and at 6 in the morning in the west.

POLAR STAR

Polaris is the first star in the pole of the little dipper and shows where the north is. When you take five times the back shaft of the big dipper you can find it.

#6 WHAT TO DO IN A THUNDERSTORM

#6

WHAT TO DO IN A THUNDERSTORM If you are caught above the tree line when a storm approaches, descend quickly. Avoid isolated trees. It is better to run into a forest.

Don’t pitch your tent near the tallest trees in the vicinity.

Run into a forest if ther isn’t a shelter or a car nearby.

Drop metal objects with internal or external metal frames.

If you are caught in an open field, seek a low spot.

Crouch with your feet together and head low.

If someone is struck: People who have been hit by lightning carry no electric charge and can be safely tended to. Also, victims who appear dead can often be revived.

If the person is not breathing, begin mouth-tomouth resuscitation. But if pulse is absent as well and you can perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), begin CPR. Stay with the victim until help arrives.

Don’t sit or lie down, because these positions provide much more contact with the ground, providing a wider path for lightning to follow. If you are with a group and the threat of lightning is high, spread out at least 15 feet apart to minimize the chance of everybody getting hit.

Don’t return to an open area too soon. People have been struck by lightning near the end of a storm, which is still a dangerous time.

Get off lakes or rivers and seek shelter when storms approach. Drop any fishing rods. Boaters who cannot get off the water before the storm hits, should crouch low. Once on land, get at least 100 yards away from shore.

This publication was edited with love in the Norwegian woods (and no trees were harmed in the making).

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