Woolen blankets are the only covering to be considered for camp use, as
they absorb less moisture than any other material, and even if damp are
warm. They should be long enough to cover the cot and turn under at the
bottom, and wide enough when doubled to fall over the edge of the cot
for a few inches. Those measuring 66 x 84 inches, weighing from 4 to 5
pounds, and being 70 to 90 per cent wool, are recommended. If only one
blanket for each cot is provided in the general equipment each child
should bring to camp either a sleeping bag, one heavy and one
lightweight blanket, or one blanket and a heavy bath robe.
[Illustration: CLEANING SQUAD]
Great care should be taken that the blankets are kept clean. This can be
done if the rule permitting no eatables, water or ink in the tents is
adhered to. When making the camp bed whatever the method, care should be
taken that blankets do not touch the floor. One way is to fold the camp
blanket lengthwise, lay it on top of the cot, the top nine inches from
the head of the cot. Open the blanket and lay into it the camper's
folded blanket, the top of which comes to the head of the cot. Draw the
camp blanket over it, fold both under at the foot, and turn in the open
side half of the length of the cot. If a pillow is used place it between
the folds of the inner blanket. A bed made in this way will keep the
camp blanket clean and it will be in proper condition either to use
another summer or to use the same summer by another child.
Another way is to fold the camp blanket lengthwise and place it on the
cot and fold the camper's blanket lengthwise placing the two openings in
opposite directions, one blanket inside of the other.
Still another way is to fold the blanket lengthwise in thirds and lay it
on the cot, turn it under at the foot and get into it as into a sleeping
bag.
Quilts are not advised for camp use. All blankets should be shaken every
day and thoroughly shaken and sunned at least two or three times a week.
For this purpose it is recommended that long bars be erected in a sunny
spot on the camp grounds where blankets can be thrown over them during a
part of the day. If the camp is divided into sections a few blankets
could be done at one time, and done regularly. The tent posts can be
used if care is taken that the ropes are not loosened. Low brush or an
available fence will also serve the purpose.
It is well to remember that it is more essential to have plenty of
clothing under the body than over it if one would sleep comfortably. A
wrapper worn over the night gown will keep the body warmer on a cold
night than an extra blanket on top.
The camp blankets should never be used next to the body. The personal
blanket should be used for that purpose. During the day the camp blanket
can be folded lengthwise once, crosswise once, laid on to the foot of
the cot, the fold toward the bottom, the personal blankets, night
clothes, bath wrapper and pillow neatly folded, laid on the blanket and
the border ends drawn over and tucked under, thus making a neat roll.
The foot of the cot is toward the center of the tent.
[Illustration: THE WISE VIRGINS. They clean and fill their lamps
outdoors.]