SECOND CLASS SCOUT

Safe Carrying

Place a sheath over an ax blade whenever it is not in use. Carry an ax at your side in one hand, with the blade turned out from your body. If you stum- ble, toss the ax away from you as you fall. Never carry an ax on your shoulder-the ax bit will be too close to your neck and head.

Safe Handling

Hand an ax to another person by holding the handle with the ax head down. Pass it with the bit turned away from both of you. When the other person has a grip on the handle, he should say, "

Thank you." That's your signal to release your hold.

Safe Storage Sheathe your ax and store it under the dining fly or in a tent to keep it dry, found, and safely out of the way.