New Invention For Wildland Firefighters Makes Going to the Bathroom Easier

ASHLAND, Ore. - March 26, 2013 - PRLog -- As the U.S. Forest Service prepares for another busy fire season after battling bigger-than-usual fires last year, agency head Tom Tidwell reports that budget cuts for 2013 has resulted in 500 fewer firefighters and 50 fewer engines with crews.  Tidwell told the Associated Press in a telephone interview on Tuesday that: “We will respond like we always have, whatever it takes for us to be prepared.”  

One preparation a wildland firefighter may find especially relieving is the Squat Strap, an invention out of Ashland, Oregon, a state that saw record-breaking fires last year.  Since crews are often required to be on site for 12+ hours while wearing a 45-lb pack, they often dread answering the call of nature and can become constipated as a result, say Squat Strap inventors John and Beth Hallett.  The Squat Strap is a 8-foot polypropylene strap that hooks around a tree trunk using a D-ring and a carabiner and fits behind the small of the user’s back, allowing an easy squat without having to remove heavy gear.

"A successful invention solves a problem," says John Hallet, a former city councilman, "and this one does."

The Hallets invented the Squat Strap last year and have seen great success at backpacking trade shows, outdoor stores and fire camps. They sold a good number right away through their website and have a patent pending.  “Many people have found using the strap very comfortable as you can hold your legs at a 90-degree angle just like at home,” says Beth Hallet.  It also serves to keep one’s “assets” out of poison oak, and is multi-functional, as it can be used to leash a dog, hoist a pack to keep food safe, tie up a boat, lift shower bags, and haul a load of firewood.

About Squat Monkey

The Squat Monkey Squat Strap is unlike any other portable camping toilet product available. Designed and developed by people who enjoy the great outdoors, it provides both men and women whether young or old with a comfortable, stable option for relieving yourself outdoors. This high quality 8-foot-long strap is tested for over 600 lbs, only weighs 4oz, is UV, rot and mildew resistant, is USA made and manufactured in Oregon. Now you can go to the bathroom in the woods with confidence. The Squat Strap is available for $19.95 through the website: www.squatmonkey.com. Get your outdoor bathroom solution now!