The Scouter's Compass

Ep.3 Don’t Tread on Me (Or Them!)

Chris Michaels — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 16:18:21 +0000

As the summer sun blazes down, many of us are heading out to trails, campsites, and all those beautiful natural spaces we love. But with warmer weather comes increased activity, and that includes some of our slithery friends. That's right. Today, we're setting our compass directly on a crucial topic for summer safety: snake awareness.

I caught up with Oconeechee Council Commissioner Scott Fedorchak, who is also one of the foremost experts in our state on venomous snakes. We'll be covering everything you need to know to stay safe, informed, and respectful of these often misunderstood creatures.

So, whether you're a seasoned leader or a new Scout, buckle up – because understanding snake safety is essential for a fun and healthy summer adventure. Let's dive in!

Ep. 2 – Lost in the Woods

Chris Michaels — Sun, 08 Jun 2025 21:36:12 +0000

Summer hikes are a Scout favorite — fresh air, big views, and adventure around every bend. However, with heat, rugged terrain and the unexpected, safety must come first. In this episode, we’re hitting the trail with Tim Treweek, an Eagle Scout, Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, and Wilderness First Responder, to discuss hiking preparation, safety, and why wilderness first aid is essential for every unit.

Ep. 01 – Summer on the Waterfront

Chris Michaels — Fri, 30 May 2025 14:13:19 +0000

Summer fun just isn’t complete without getting our feet wet. Whether you’re swimming at the pool, paddling on a lake, or setting sail on open water, knowing the basics of water safety can mean the difference between making lasting memories and facing a moment we’d rather forget.

To find out how we can keep our Scouts safe around the water, we caught up with Jeff Pitts, Aquatics Committee Chair for Occoneechee Council and Senior Aquatics Advisor at Camp Durant.