Canteen Safety & Care

 Co. L, 15^th NYVC

Canteens play a very important part in our hobby it holds properly the precious water that we need to be hydrated.  It is therefore a reason that the canteen is a required item and inspected before a skirmish.  So it is a good time of year to look at the condition of our canteens.   We should start to look at our canteen to see if it holds water also check the condition of the corkstoper and chain to see if it is in good condition.  The cork can some times turn dry and flake apart.  Also check the metal hardware on the cork, this after time can get rusty and snap.  In the final process check the canteen strap and the outside cover of the canteen.  Make sure that it is not fraying and falling apart.  When all done replace or repair any item as required.  If any questions arise call a company line officer for their help.

In storing the canteen, member Al Rodriguez has a good method.  Fill the canteen with mouthwash when storing! 

• This kills off bacteria. Remember that if your canteen is not in good working order it can become a source if illness if not prepared properly.

• When storing it will be easy to see if a leak develops over time.

• The corkstoper is also kept wet to secure a good seal.

Taking good care of your canteen is taking good care of yourself.

Rev.02.18.04