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I am sure you are very excited about the trip. I would like to brief you on what
to bring for the trip and some camping rules, which you should be aware of,
before we leave. First and foremost, your choice of clothing and personal
effects can make or break your trip. If you're properly dressed and equipped,
you'll find the camping trip enjoyable. But if you're ill-equipped, you may end
up being miserable. Bring a warm jacket as the nights can be quite cold. Bring
at least a few T-shirts and shorts. Pack at least two pairs of shoes, one for
hiking and another for running. Don't forget to bring at least four pairs of
socks. Bring along a cap or hat to protect your head. If you have a windproof
jacket, take that along. Be sure to bring the personal toiletries that you Will
need although some of you may like to share your toothpaste or shampoo.
Secondly, bring enough food for three days. What type of food is suitable?
Bring instant noodles, bread, snacks, fruit and canned food like sardines, tuna
and beans. Remember to include a few bottles of boiled water. If you must have
rice, you will have to cook your own so bring the right utensils. The school is
supplying the tents and cooking kits and we will distribute them to you after
this briefing.
Apart from that, you will need a torchlight, a can opener for each group and
a first aid kit. To those who are allergic to mosquito bites or leeches, don't
forget some ointment and insect repellent.
I will now talk about the rules of the camping park, which must be obeyed.
Firstly, don't feed any wildlife, even if they seem to be looking for handouts.
It's bad for wild animals to associate people with food because they will lose
their natural fear of humans and become aggressive. Another negative result of
feeding animals is that their natural diet might be disrupted. Animals that get
too used to people may become too comfortable when we are around. This makes it
easy for people with ill intentions to harm these animals that have grown to
trust us. If you really care about wildlife, please don't feed them.
Secondly, throw all garbage into containers provided for this purpose or take
your rubbish with you when you leave. Do not litter the lakes or streams.
Leaving unfinished food items round might attract wild animals in search of food
to your campsite. Remember to wash food and personal items away from drinking
water supplies. We do not want to contaminate our water supplies.
Another important rule which you have to observe is: do not carve, chop, cut,
or damage any live trees. Many of you will be tempted to pluck the flowers or
leaves. Do not do that. Preserve and protect your national forests. Leave
natural areas the way you find them. Whatever you do or wherever you go, make
sure you go together in your group. Do not wander off trails alone even if it is
to answer the call of nature. Go with a friend and inform the leader of the
group where you are going at all times. Many of you will be bringing your
cellphones. Give your friends' numbers to your parents so that you can take
turns switching on your handphones as you cannot recharge them there. Camping
will continue to be enjoyable as long as each camper acts responsibly. I do not
encourage boisterous behavior and the noise level should be minimal after
midnight. So, with your co-operation I am sure we will enjoy this trip. Thank
you. |
