Compass Navigation Techniques and Skills

Christopher Ramo, an environmental educator, introduces the importance of compasses in navigation, especially when electronic devices fail. He explains the parts of a base plate compass, including the directional arrow, rulers, rotating bezel, and magnetic needle. Ramo demonstrates how to use a compass to find bearings and navigate with a map, emphasizing the 'red in the shed' technique. He concludes by encouraging viewers to practice compass skills at the Greenbelt Nature Center and provides resources for further learning.

Why are compasses still useful despite the invention of GPS and cell phones?

• They are more accurate than GPS.

• They do not require electricity.

• They are cheaper than GPS devices.

• They can be used underwater.

What is the purpose of the directional arrow on a base plate compass?

• To point towards the desired direction of travel.

• To indicate the current location.

• To measure distances on a map.

• To show the magnetic north.

What should you avoid when using a compass to ensure accurate readings?

• Holding it flat.

• Holding it close to your body.

• Keeping it away from magnetic objects.

• Using it in daylight.

What does the phrase 'red in the shed' refer to when using a compass?

• Measuring the distance to a destination.

• Finding the direction of the sun.

• Placing the compass on a map.

• Aligning the red needle with the orienteering line.

How do you orient a map using a compass?

• Hold the map and compass vertically.

• Use the compass to draw a line on the map.

• Place the compass on the map and rotate the map until 'red is in the shed'.

• Align the map's north with the compass's north.

What is the first step in using a compass with a map to find a location?

• Align the compass with the map's north.

• Draw a line from your current location to the destination.

• Rotate the map until it faces south.

• Place the compass over the destination on the map.

What should you do after aligning the compass with the map's north?

• Fold the map to fit the compass.

• Draw a line from the compass to the map's edge.

• Move the compass to the destination on the map.

• Rotate the map until the compass needle points south.

What is the final step in using a compass to navigate to a location on a map?

• Fold the map and put it away.

• Check the compass's degree reading.

• Rotate the compass until it points east.

• Draw a line from the compass to the destination.

Why is it recommended to practice compass skills at the Greenbelt?

• It offers guided tours for beginners.

• It has 35 miles of trails for practice.

• It has a variety of challenging terrains.

• It provides free compasses for visitors.

Where can you find more virtual videos about the Greenbelt?

• On the Greenbelt's official website.

• In local newspapers.

• In local libraries.

• On television channels.