Winter Skills en
Winter Skills en
Winter Skills en
Competencies
Canadianpath.ca
2 WINTER SKILLS
Competencies
2.4 I know how to pack extra clothes for 2.11 I have made a piece of simple winter
winter outings. gear or clothing (wristlet or neck
warmer).
2.5 I know how to keep my feet dry while
I am outside in the winter.
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3 WINTER SKILLS
Competencies
3.2 I can light a small fire. 3.11 I can identify the North Star and three other
features in the winter night sky.
3.3 I have helped plan a menu for a winter camp.
3.12 I have completed a winter hike of at least 3 km.
3.4 I have cooked a lunch over an open fire.
3.13 I have made a winter survival kit that I take with
3.5 I understand the layering principle when dressing me on all winter activities.
for winter activities and apply it to all activities.
3.14 In addition to previous stages, I have made a
3.6 With a small group, I have built an emergency piece of winter gear or clothing.
shelter in winter.
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4 WINTER SKILLS
Competencies
4.4 I have attended a winter campfire. 4.11 I have participated in two 3 km hikes.
4.5 I have put up a tent in winter to sleep in. 4.12 I know how to help someone who has fallen
through the ice.
4.6 I can properly set up my sleeping area to stay
warm through the night at winter camp. 4.13 I know how to prevent and treat hypothermia
and frostbite.
4.7 I have used a toboggan or sled to
transport equipment. 4.14 I know how to avoid and treat snow blindness.
Canadianpath.ca
5 WINTER SKILLS
Competencies
5.2 I have led my Patrol in planning and purchasing 5.11 I have participated in a winter hike lasting at least
meals for a winter camp. six hours and covering at least 6 km.
5.3 I have been chief cook for at least one meal at 5.12 I have hiked a minimum of 5 km in winter
winter camp. conditions following compass bearings.
5.4 I have helped to run a campfire at a winter camp. 5.13 I know how to avoid, recognize and treat carbon
monoxide poisoning (which can occur in winter
5.5 I am able to pack the appropriate clothing and shelters).
equipment for a two-night winter camp.
5.14 I have a first aid qualification equivalent to the
5.6 I have built and slept in a temporary winter Scout First Aid badge (St John’s or Red Cross
shelter such as a quinzhee, snow trench or Standard First Aid).
a lean-to.
5.15 I can execute a ladder rescue, chain assist and
5.7 I can lay and light a fire in winter conditions for reaching assist for someone who has fallen
warmth and cooking. through the ice.
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6 WINTER SKILLS
Competencies
6.5 I have taught a less experienced Scout how to 6.11 I have practised a winter evacuation of a
dress for winter activities. simulated causality.
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7 WINTER SKILLS
Competencies
Canadianpath.ca
8 WINTER SKILLS
Competencies
9 WINTER SKILLS
Competencies
Canadianpath.ca
1 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
1.2 I have prepared a good snack for a winter outing. The Scout will know how to pack a nutritious and tasty snack
appropriate for the outing to eat outdoors, bearing in mind
that activities in winter require more energy than in other
seasons. Snacks should consider the environment and should
minimize garbage.
1.3 I always carry a water bottle when going on Scouts should routinely drink water when on outdoor activities and
a winter outing. should recognize that being grumpy and tired are early signs
of dehydration.
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1 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
1.5 I have participated in a winter sports day Scouts will have participated in an outdoor sports or games day,
(Beaveree, Cuboree, winter challenge). ideally with their Patrol or Section.
1.6 I know how to dress when I go outside in winter. Scouts should demonstrate a basic understanding of how to dress
when going outside in the wintertime.
They should know to wear a hat, mittens or gloves, and layered
clothing appropriate for the climate and conditions.
1.7 I know to stay dry or change to dry clothes when Scouts wear clothing made of synthetic fibres to wick moisture
I am outside in winter. and keep dry and warm, or they wear wool clothing, which will stay
warm when wet.
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1 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements (cont’d)
1.9 I know to follow the instructions of the activity Scouts can explain why they must be especially careful to follow the
leader when at an outdoor event. instructions of an activity leader to make sure that they stay safe
from winter and normal hazards.
1.10 I have hiked at least 1 km in winter. Scouts have taken part in a short winter hike, wearing appropriate
clothing and packing appropriate gear. They have used the
buddy system.
1.11 I know that I should not touch cold metal with Scouts can describe why they should not touch cold metal with
bare skin, especially my lips or tongue. bare skin, including what will happen (skin freezes to metal) and
what injuries can result (at worst, some skin remains frozen to the
metal, resulting in a serious abrasion).
Canadianpath.ca
2 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
2.2 I have packed a proper lunch for a winter outing. Scouts can describe how to make a nutritious and tasty meal to eat
outdoors in the winter.
Packed lunches should include as little garbage as possible.
2.3 I have participated in two winter sports days Scouts have participated in two winter sports days, at least one of
(Beaveree, Cuboree, winter challenge). which was in support of this stage.
2.4 I know how to pack extra clothes for Scouts can describe the appropriate clothing for winter outings,
winter outings. including what extra clothing should be packed for a scenario. They
can also describe why these clothing articles are appropriate—for
example, synthetic fibres will not hold moisture like cotton; wet
cotton will make one cold.
2.5 I know how to keep my feet dry while I am outside Scouts know how to keep their feet dry by using waterproof boots
in the winter. and staying out of water.
Scouts can describe why a change of dry wool or synthetic socks
is important.
2.6 I store my outdoor clothing so it will quickly dry. Scouts can describe how to hang up clothing to dry safely
(not burning, melting or catching fire) and effectively.
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2 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements (cont’d)
2.8 I have attended one overnight winter Scouts can spend one night at a winter camp.
camp or sleepover. At this stage, it is acceptable for the Scout to have spent the night
in a heated cabin or other permanent shelter.
2.9 I have completed two winter hikes of With their Section and/or Patrol, Scouts can complete two short
at least 1 km. hikes in winter conditions, specifically for this stage.
2.10 I know to avoid ice or open water without an Scouts can demonstrate an understanding of this hazard
adult present. and know to avoid iced-over rivers, lakes or ponds without
adult supervision.
2.11 I have made a piece of simple winter gear or Scouts can make a piece of winter gear or clothing and describe its
clothing (wristlet or neck warmer). use and value for winter Adventures.
Canadianpath.ca
3 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
3.2 I can light a small fire. Scouts can demonstrate the ability to light a small fire in
winter conditions.
The principles of Leave No Trace should be adhered to.
3.3 I have helped plan a menu for a winter camp. Scouts can work with members of their team to produce a balanced
menu for a winter camp.
3.4 I have cooked a lunch over an open fire. Scouts can cook a simple meal over an open fire.
3.5 I understand the layering principle when dressing Scouts can explain the principles behind layering clothes (wicking,
for winter activities and apply it to all activities. warmth and wind/wet) for winter activities and have an opportunity
to demonstrate this skill.
Scouts understand what clothing fabrics are appropriate and are
aware of less-expensive options.
Canadianpath.ca
3 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
3.7 I know how to find shelter from the wind on a Scouts can demonstrate the ability to find shelter from the wind
cold day. when outdoors in winter conditions.
3.8 I can pack a day pack for a winter outing. Scouts can demonstrate the ability to pack a personal day pack for a
winter outing.
3.9 I know how to watch my fellow Scouts for signs of Scouts can demonstrate how to identify signs of hypothermia
exposure to the cold. and/or frostbite.
(Please refer to the Field Book for Canadian Scouting.)
3.10 I have spent one night at winter camp in a cabin Scouts can spend one night at a winter camp in a cabin
or heated tent (in addition to requirements for or heated tent.
previous stages).
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3 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements (cont’d)
3.12 I have completed a winter hike of at least 3 km. As part of their Section and/or Patrol, Scouts can complete a 3 km
hike in winter conditions.
3.13 I have made a winter survival kit that I take with Scouts can make a winter survival kit that is suitable for all
me on all winter activities. winter activities.
Scouts can explain why they have included the items in the kit and
how each can be used in a winter emergency, and they can explain
why other possible items are not included.
Scouts can describe possible scenarios (lost in the woods, stranded
in a vehicle or cabin due to the weather) in which the kit could
be used.
3.14 In addition to previous stages, I have made a piece Scouts can make a significant item of winter gear or clothing.
of winter gear or clothing.
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4 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
4.2 I have helped purchase food for a winter outing. With members of their Patrol, Scouts can assist in purchasing
appropriate food for a winter outing. They can explain the rationale
for the food chosen, addressing considerations such as taste,
nutrition, cost and packing weight and volume.
4.3 I have helped cook meals at winter camp. As part of a team, Scouts can help prepare more than one meal for
their Patrol while at winter camp.
4.4 I have attended a winter campfire. Scouts can participate in at least one outdoor winter campfire.
4.5 I have put up a tent in winter to sleep in. As a part of their Patrol, Scouts can put up a tent in winter
conditions and sleep in it overnight.
4.6 I can properly set up my sleeping area to stay Scouts can demonstrate how to properly set up their sleeping areas
warm through the night at winter camp. to stay warm and comfortable while at winter camp.
Canadianpath.ca
4 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
4.8 I have taught a winter skill to a less experienced Scouts can teach a winter skill to a less-experienced Scout.
Scout.
4.9 I have spent two consecutive nights Scouts can spend two consecutive nights at a winter camp. At
at winter camp (in addition to requirements this stage, it is acceptable for the Scout to spend one of these two
for previous stages). nights in a heated cabin or other permanent shelter.
4.10 I have traveled in snow using snowshoes or Scouts can travel in snow wearing snowshoes or nordic skis.
nordic skis.
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4 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements (cont’d)
4.12 I know how to help someone who has fallen Scouts can demonstrate how assist in rescuing someone who has
through the ice. fallen through the ice.
Please refer to the Field Book for Canadian Scouting.
4.13 I know how to prevent and treat hypothermia Scouts can explain and demonstrate how to prevent and treat
and frostbite. hypothermia and frostbite.
Please refer to the Field Book for Canadian Scouting.
4.14 I know how to avoid and treat snow blindness. Scouts can explain and demonstrate how to prevent and treat
snow blindness.
Please refer to the Field Book for Canadian Scouting.
Canadianpath.ca
5 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
5.2 I have led my Patrol in planning and purchasing Scouts can lead their Patrols in planning and purchasing food for
meals for a winter camp. a winter camp.
Scouts can explain the rationale behind the menu, explaining
considerations such as taste, nutrition, budget and food weight
and volume.
5.3 I have been chief cook for at least one meal at Scouts can lead Patrols in preparing at least one balanced and tasty
winter camp. meal while at winter camp.
5.4 I have helped to run a campfire at a winter camp. Scouts can assist in running a formal campfire while at a
winter camp.
This could include laying the fire, running the opening, planning the
program, leading some songs or telling a story.
5.5 I am able to pack the appropriate clothing and Scouts can demonstrate the ability to pack appropriate clothing and
equipment for a two-night winter camp. gear for a two-night winter camp.
Canadianpath.ca
5 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
5.7 I can lay and light a fire in winter conditions for Scouts can lay, light and maintain a fire in winter conditions that
warmth and cooking. can be used for cooking and for comfort.
5.8 I can use a liquid fuel stove in winter conditions Scouts can safely use a liquid fuel stove in winter conditions; they
and understand why it is important not to get fuel can safely transfer fuel, safely and properly set up a stove on a
on clothing and skin. suitable surface, and light and manage the stove.
Scouts can explain safety hazards of using a stove and handling fuel,
and how to manage identified hazards.
Scouts can explain appropriate responses to possible emergency
scenarios related to operating a liquid fuel stove in
winter conditions.
5.9 I have helped lead a winter sports day. As a part of a Patrol, Scouts can lead a winter sports day for a
younger Section.
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5 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements (cont’d)
5.11 I have participated in a winter hike lasting at least As a part of a Patrol, Scouts can hike for at least six hours, covering
six hours and covering at least 6 km. at least 6 km. This can be done using snowshoes or nordic skis.
5.12 I have hiked a minimum of 5 km in winter Scouts can hike a minimum of 5 km following compass bearings.
conditions following compass bearings. This can be done as a part of the six-hour hike completed for
this stage.
5.13 I know how to avoid, recognize and treat Scouts can describe how to avoid and treat carbon
carbon monoxide poisoning (which can occur monoxide poisoning.
in winter shelters). Scouts can identify possible causes of carbon monoxide poisoning
related to winter camping.
5.14 I have a first aid qualification equivalent to the Scouts will have completed standard first aid training.
Scout First Aid badge (St John’s or Red Cross
Standard First Aid).
5.15 I can execute a ladder rescue, chain assist and Scouts Canada Field Book pages 188–89 describe the required
reaching assist for someone who has fallen through rescue techniques.
the ice.
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6 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
6.2 I know how to obtain and keep a supply of safe Scouts can describe how water can be obtained by melting snow or
drinking water for a winter camp. ice, or sourcing from open water or under ice.
Scouts can describe how melting snow or ice will impact a camp
with regard to time and gear (eg-fuel).
Scouts can describe how to determine if ice is safe to venture out
on, and how to treat water to make it safe to drink.
Scouts can list what gear is needed to source water in winter
conditions (axe, auger, safety equipment, purification equipment).
6.3 I know how to store water overnight so that it will Scouts can describe how to keep water from freezing by keeping
not freeze. it in secure and near one’s body in a sleeping bag.
6.4 I have baked bread or a dessert at a winter camp. Scouts know how to bake in winter conditions using an improvised
trail oven using pots, a commercial trail oven or reflector oven.
Canadianpath.ca
6 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
(cont’d on next page)
6.6 I have taught a less experienced Scout how to Scouts can teach less experienced Scouts to construct a shelter
build a winter shelter. from snow or other materials (tarp, parachute, etc.).
6.7 I can do simple repairs on liquid fuel stoves. Scouts know how to:
• dry out a stove that has snow or water in the burners
• oil the pump leather when the pump will not pressurize
the fuel tank
6.8 I have led a cooking team for a winter camp. Scouts can lead a team in cooking all meals (breakfast, lunch and
supper) at a camp.
Scouts can describe the rationale behind the menu: taste, nutrition,
budget and weight and volume considerations.
Canadianpath.ca
6 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements (cont’d)
6.10 I have slept outside for two nights in a lightweight Scouts can sleep outside in winter conditions in a lightweight
shelter in winter (in addition to requirements for shelter such as a tent.
previous levels).
6.11 I have practised a winter evacuation of Scouts can practise a winter evacuation using a sled or other
a simulated casualty. improvised self-propelled method of person/gear transportation to
a road .5 km from the simulated injury.
Canadianpath.ca
7 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
7.2 I know how to select an appropriate tent Scouts can explain what makes a tent appropriate for winter
for winter camping. camping (ventilation, snow load, overall stability).
7.3 I have made a piece of winter camping or winter Scouts can make a piece of winter camping or winter safety
safety equipment. equipment, such as: snow goggles, ice recovery picks, snowshoes,
adapted pulk sled for hauling winter gear, or freight toboggan).
7.4 I have participated in a winter mobile expedition Scouts can participate in a challenging winter day hike (back
of at least three days (two nights). country, alpine) appropriate to their region.
Scouts can prepare the emergency plan for a winter day hike or
overnight camp that takes into consideration local winter dangers
such as avalanche, wet climate, wind chill, freezing rain, or other
weather patterns that could lead to unsafe conditions for
their Section.
Scouts can submit the plan to the Group Commissioner for approval
with the Outdoor Activity Application.
7.5 I have maintained my first-aid certification. Scouts can maintain standard first-aid certification officially
recognized by a reputable organization, such as St. John’s
Ambulance, the Red Cross, or a local EMT provider.
Canadianpath.ca
8 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
8.2 With a team, I have provided leadership for a one Scouts can provide a fun and safe overnight activity in the
or two-night activity. winter for younger Scouts.
Scouts can engage less-experienced youth in the
Plan-Do-Review process.
8.3 I have participated in a five-day (four-night) mobile Scouts can participate in a five-day mobile expedition in winter.
winter expedition. Scouts can demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the
risks and mitigating measures for the climatic conditions in a
specific region during winter and can select the most appropriate
equipment for an activity.
8.4 I understand the risks and am able to implement Scouts can demonstrate an understanding of the challenges and
appropriate safety procedures for camping in advantages of hot tenting and can describe the specific safety
heated tents. considerations in selecting equipment for this activity.
8.5 I have wilderness first aid certifications appropriate Scouts have the necessary qualifications and skills to provide first
for areas I am traveling in and the activities aid during an extended winter expedition.
I am doing. Scouts can recognize and treat conditions common in winter
conditions such as snow blindness, frostbite, hypothermia and
carbon monoxide poisoning; furthermore, Scouts know how to
prevent such medical conditions.
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9 WINTER SKILLS
Requirements
9.2 I have led a mobile winter expedition of three to As the leader of an extended winter expedition, Scouts can
five days. demonstrate the skills required to ensure the safety and comfort of
the expedition members (using Plan-Do-Review).
9.3 I have slept outside at least 20 nights (including Through the course of all stages, Scouts have slept in cabins, tents
nights from previous levels) in winter conditions. and temporary shelters for at least 20 nights.
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