Sec. 14.31.07.06. Wilderness Programs

A. Additional Requirements.

(1) In addition to the requirements set forth in COMAR 14.31.05 and 14.31.06, a licensee shall ensure that a wilderness program also meets the requirements of this regulation.

(2) With the exception of §§B and C of this regulation, the requirements of COMAR 14.31.06.07 are not applicable to wilderness programs.

B. Living Environment. The living environment, including all sleeping and food preparation, and personal hygiene facilities, of a wilderness program shall:

(1) Be well drained and free from depressions in which water may stagnate;

(2) Be free from noxious plants and uncontrolled weeds or brush; and

(3) Have an approved sanitary landfill or similar disposal facility for solid wastes that is not subject to inundation by flooding.

C. The licensee shall ensure that every wilderness site has available an adequate supply of potable water.

D. Food Preparation and Storage.

(1) If food is prepared at a central dining building, the licensee shall meet the requirements set out in COMAR 14.31.06.07 for kitchens.

(2) If food is prepared away from a central dining building, the licensee shall:

(a) Store food in a manner that deters spoilage and contamination;

(b) Ensure that perishable food stored in ice chests is:

(i) Maintained at a refrigerated temperature; and

(ii) Is not stored in an ice chest for more than 24 hours;

(c) Ensure that all surfaces that come in contact with food are clean and, when preparing meat products and other foods, not sources of cross contamination; and

(d) Clean thoroughly and store all dishes, cooking, and eating utensils in a manner to avoid contamination.

E. Toilet and Personal Hygiene Facilities.

(1) If a water supply is not available, the licensee shall provide sanitary type privies, or portable toilets, that meet local or State health department standards.

(2) The licensee shall maintain all toilet and personal hygiene areas in a sanitary manner to eliminate health or pollution hazards.

(3) The licensee shall locate privies at least 150 feet from a stream, lake, or well and at least 75 feet from a sleeping area.

(4) At sites not equipped with a permanent toilet facility, the licensee shall provide at least one privy or portable toilet for every 15 people.

F. Heating. The licensee shall install and ventilate heating stoves that use combustible fuel in a manner that prevents fire hazards and dangerous concentrations of gases.

G. Sleeping Areas. The licensee shall use:

(1) Bedding that is adequate for protection and comfort in cold weather;

(2) Sleeping bags that are fiber-filled, fire retardant, and rated for 0°F;

(3) Mattresses and pillows that meet federal regulations; and

(4) Screening or mosquito nets in the children's personal sleeping areas.

H. Clothing. The licensee shall provide each child with an adequate supply of clean clothing, suitable for outdoor living and appropriate for weather conditions, and sturdy, water resistant outdoor shoes or boots.

I. Fire Safety. The licensee shall equip each wilderness site with a fire extinguisher located not more than 75 feet from each combustible fuel heating device or campfire.