Ed Wardle ’s Training

Is he prepared for this challenge?

Earlier this Spring, Ed spent six days in the Yukon. This gave him a much better idea of how to prepare for his three-month adventure. Based on that experience, Ed has recently pursued the following areas of training:

Medical Training
Ed completed two days of an individually tailored first-aid course. Ed received advanced instruction on self-medication and self-treatment, such as stitching wounds, plus making decisions in the event of a medical emergency (such as when can he treat himself, and when he should call for outside help).

Psychological Preparation
Ed also met with Dr. Cynthia McVey, Head of the Division of Psychology at Glasgow Caledonian University, and a Chartered Psychologist. They discussed likely emotional responses, and Dr. McVey coached Ed in loneliness and depression-coping techniques.

Specialized Training
Ed will have four days of training in the Yukon before being flown into the wilderness. He’ll meet with expert Bruce Bennett, who will instruct him on where to look for plants, berries, and carbohydrate-rich roots and tubers– as well as the poisonous plants to avoid. He will also receive hunting, fishing and survival training from a First Nation (native Indian) tribe member, Ron Chambers, who has traditional hunting rights and exceptional knowledge of the area. Ed will also familiarize himself with local reference books, which he’ll take with him.

Bear Training
Ed has had previous training in bear behavior. He’s knowledgeable about grizzly and black bear feeding habits, what signs to look out for, and what to do if he surprises one. He’s been shown how to keep food in a tree larder, and how to use early warning systems, such as trip wires. But since his trek takes place during the summer–when the bears are particularly numerous and dangerous – Ed will also take refresher training with Kris Gustafson of Environment Yukon. They’ll cover anti-bear procedures, as well as other wildlife which might be a threat.

Gun Licenses and Training
Ed will have pepper spray and a shotgun for protection that he’ll carry at all times. He has a Canadian gun license and considerable experience with guns (he’s been shooting since he was twelve), but will receive further firearms training in the Yukon.