ALT-1 Skills to become a Ranger
There are many skills and qualities that a ranger needs to acquire in order to excel in his chosen field. Above all other skills a ranger must be well educated in survival skills and first aid. Rangers should also be outdoorsy, respectful, patient and physically fit.
Well Educated:
Rangers often spend a lot of time alone. Many rangers are required to hike and camp as required by their job description. A ranger must be well educated in survivalist skills for obvious safety concerns. Rangers need to know how to handle many emergency situations that could arise while they are working alone.
Rangers are often asked to teach the public and educate them about wilderness survival through various outlets.
First aid and safety skills are also important for a ranger to master. The great outdoors provides a host of unique safety concerns and potential emergencies. Rangers must have a vast set of safety skills to protect not only themselves but others as well. Administering first aid is only one of the many responsibilities of rangers.
Outdoorsy:
Rangers are required to work in a variety of outdoor settings. They go to work regardless of heat, rain, snow or any variety of unfavorable weather conditions. A ranger must enjoy being outdoors, regardless of the weather. A ranger must be comfortable spending hours alone outdoors.
Respectful:
Rangers must be respectful of nature. The majority of a ranger’s day is spent outdoors. A ranger must have a good understanding and high respect for the plant and animal life around him. This will help ensure the ranger’s safety and general well-being. Rangers must appreciate nature and their surroundings.
Physically Fit:
Rangers need to be physically fit and in good health. The nature of a ranger’s job is very active and strenuous. A ranger must be in good shape and good health to secure his safety.
Patient:
Although rangers spend a lot of time on their own they often interact with the public. A ranger must demonstrate patience when interacting with the public that may not be as respectful or knowledgeable towards nature. A ranger should take the time to teach others how to properly and respectfully interact with nature.
A career as a ranger can be fulfilling and exciting for an individual who has mastered these skills. A ranger should be well educated, outdoorsy, respectful, physically fit and patient in order to excel as a ranger. The right individual should not hesitate to embark on this exciting career path.
