The Good Lord truly does look out for drunks and fools :o
I've been with or ran into maybe a few individuals in a large party that were suffering from being ill-equipped and not prepared like the others, but too have so many in one group, boggles the mind.
 It's hard too even know where too lay the blame for so many being un-prepared. I guess you would start with the Outfitter IF they used one, then the trip leader and work down from there.
 With all the resources available here and on other forums, even a rookie can learn from others, at least in the importance of proper gear.
 Kudos too you and the other's who saved their bacon.
I bet your 8 year old had a "take" on the situation.
Not many 8 year olds would have the composure to be helpful in a situation like this!
 You've done a good job with the boy, he's young but "seasoned" ;)