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Becoming a Boy Scout |
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Guide To Safe Scouting |
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Boy Scout Troop 511
Dundee Michigan |
Youth
Protection in Scouting
How does the BSA prevent child
abuse in Scouting?
The Boy Scouts of America has
adopted a number of policies aimed at eliminating
opportunities for abuse within the Scouting program.
These policies focus on leadership selection and on
placing barriers to abuse within the program.
Leadership
The Boy Scouts of America takes
great pride in the quality of our adult leadership.
Being a leader in the BSA is a privilege, not a
right. The quality of the program and the safety of
our youth members call for high-quality adult
leaders. We work closely with our chartered
organizations to help recruit the best possible
leaders for their units.
The adult application requests
background information that should be checked by the
unit committee or the chartered organization before
accepting an applicant for unit leadership. While no
current screening techniques exist that can identify
every potential child molester, we can reduce the
risk of accepting a child molester by learning all
we can about an applicant for a leadership
position--his or her experience with children, why
he or she wants to be a Scout leader, and what
discipline techniques he or she would use.
Barriers to Abuse Within Scouting
The BSA has adopted the following
policies to provide additional security for our
members. These policies are primarily for the
protection of our youth members; however, they also
serve to protect our adult leaders from false
accusations of abuse.
- Two-deep leadership. Two
registered adult leaders or one
registered leader and a parent of a
participant, one of whom must be 21
years of age or older, are required on
all trips and outings. The chartered
organization is responsible for ensuring
that sufficient leadership is provided
for all activities.
- No one-on-one contact. One-on-one
contact between adults and youth members
is not permitted. In situations that
require personal conferences, such as a
Scoutmaster's conference, the meeting is
to be conducted in view of other adults
and youths.
- Respect of privacy. Adult leaders
must respect the privacy of youth
members in situations such as changing
clothes and taking showers at camp, and
intrude only to the extent that health
and safety require. Adults must protect
their own privacy in similar situations.
- Separate accommodations. When
camping, no youth is permitted to sleep
in the tent of an adult other than his
own parent or guardian. Councils are
strongly encouraged to have separate
shower and latrine facilities for
females. When separate facilities are
not available, separate times for male
and female use should be scheduled and
posted for showers.
- Proper preparation for
high-adventure activities. Activities
with elements of risk should never be
undertaken without proper preparation,
equipment, clothing, supervision, and
safety measures.
- No secret organizations. The Boy
Scouts of America does not recognize any
secret organizations as part of its
program. All aspects of the Scouting
program are open to observation by
parents and leaders.
- Appropriate attire. Proper
clothing for activities is required. For
example, skinny-dipping is not
appropriate as part of Scouting.
- Constructive discipline.
Discipline used in Scouting should be
constructive and reflect Scouting's
values. Corporal punishment is never
permitted.
- Hazing prohibited. Physical
hazing and initiations are prohibited
and may not be included as part of any
Scouting activity.
- Junior leader training and
supervision. Adult leaders must monitor
and guide the leadership techniques used
by junior leaders and ensure that BSA
policies are followed.
How can parents help protect their
children?
Parents participate in the
protection of their children in a variety of ways.
We have already mentioned the need for open lines of
communication so that children are encouraged to
bring any troubles to their parents for advice and
counsel. In addition, parents need to be involved in
their sons' Scouting activities. All parents receive
important information concerning the Scouting
program as part of their sons' membership
applications. This information is provided so that
parents can detect any deviations from the BSA's
approved program. If any deviations are noted,
parents should call these to the attention of the
chartered organization or the unit committee. If the
problems persist, parents should contact the local
council for assistance.
Parents also need to review the
booklet, How to Protect Your Children from Child
Abuse: A Parent's Guide, inserted in every Boy Scout
and Cub Scout handbook. The information in this
booklet should be the subject of discussions between
Scouts and their parents prior to joining a troop or
receiving the Bobcat badge.
Why do most child victims of sexual
abuse keep the abuse secret?
A victim of child sexual abuse is
under a great deal of pressure to keep the abuse
secret. In many cases of child molestation, the
molester has threatened to harm the child or a
member of the child's family. The molester might
have told the child that he would not be believed
even if the child did tell. Another common situation
is that the molester will tell the child that if the
child tells about the abuse, he will get into
trouble. The clear message is given to the child
that if another person finds out, something bad will
happen to the child. This pressure to maintain
silence can often be successfully overcome by
establishing open communication between children and
adults through a proper educational program for
children.
What should I do if a child tells
me that he has been sexually abused?
How an adult responds to a child
when he tries to disclose abuse can influence the
outcome of the child's victimization. By maintaining
an apparent calm, the adult can help reassure the
child that everything is going to be okay. By not
criticizing the child, we counteract any statements
the molester made to the victim about the child
getting into trouble. Reassure the child that you
are concerned about what happened to him and that
you would like to get him some help. Allegations
by a Scout concerning abuse in the program must be
reported to the Scout executive. Since these
reports are required, the child should be told that
you have to tell the proper authorities but that you
will not tell anyone else. It is important that you
not tell anyone other than the Scout executive or
the child protective services agency about
allegations of abuse—if the allegations cannot be
substantiated, you could be sued for defamation of
character.
How do I know what my reporting
responsibilities are?
Every state, the District of
Columbia, and the U.S. territories have different
reporting requirements. As part of youth protection
training, you will receive reporting instructions
for your area and for your council. People are often
concerned about being sued for reporting child
abuse. You are not required to know for certain that
a child has been abused. All that the law requires
is that you have a reasonable suspicion and are
reporting in "good faith." When these requirements
are met, all states provide immunity from liability
for child abuse reporters.
What educational materials does the
BSA have for youth members?
In addition to the Parent's
Guide, the BSA produced separate age-appropriate
videos for Cub Scout-age and Boy Scout-age boys to
address the problems of sexual abuse. The video for
Cub Scouts, It Happened to Me, should be used
annually by packs or dens, but only for Cub Scouts
accompanied by a parent or other adult family
member. The video for Boy Scouts, A Time to Tell,
introduces the "three Rs" of Youth Protection, and
should be viewed by troops annually.
How can Scout leaders who are not
social workers teach children about youth
protection?
The BSA recognizes that many of our
leaders feel unprepared to talk to children about
preventing sexual abuse. For this reason, the BSA
has meeting guides (separate guides for Boy Scout
meetings) for both of the videos produced to be
viewed by youths. The guides address everything from
scheduling the meeting, contacting the police or
social services for assistance, and notifying
parents (a sample letter is provided), to questions
and answers for discussion after the video has been
viewed.
What are the "three Rs" of Youth
Protection?
The "three Rs" of Youth Protection
convey a simple message that the BSA wants its youth
members to learn:
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Recognize situations that place him
at risk of being molested, how child
molesters operate, and that anyone could be
a molester.
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Resist unwanted and inappropriate
attention. Resistance will stop most
attempts at molestation.
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Report attempted or actual
molestation to a parent or other trusted
adult. This prevents further abuse of
himself and helps to protect other children.
Let the Scout know he will not be blamed for
what occurred.
Youth
Member Behavior Guidelines
The Boy Scouts of America is a
values based youth development organization that
helps young people learn positive attributes of
character, citizenship, and personal fitness. The
BSA has the expectation that all participants in the
Scouting program will relate to each other in accord
with the principles embodied in the Scout Oath and
Law.
One of the developmental tasks of
childhood is to learn appropriate behavior. Children
are not born with an innate sense of propriety and
they need guidance and direction. The example set by
positive adult role models is a powerful tool for
shaping behavior and a tool that is stressed in
Scouting.
Misbehavior by a single youth member
in a Scouting unit may constitute a threat to the
safety of the individual who misbehaves as well as
to the safety of other unit members. Such
misbehavior constitutes an unreasonable burden on a
Scout unit and cannot be ignored.
Member Responsibilities
All members of the Boy Scouts of
America are expected to conduct themselves in
accordance with the principles set forth in the
Scout Oath and Law. Physical violence, hazing,
bullying, theft, verbal insults, and drugs and
alcohol have no place in the Scouting program and
may result in the revocation of a Scout's membership
in the unit.
If confronted by threats of violence
or other forms of bullying from other youth members,
Scouts should seek help from their unit leaders or
parents.
Unit Responsibilities
Adult leaders of Scouting units
are responsible for monitoring the behavior of youth
members and interceding when necessary. Parents of
youth members who misbehave should be informed and
asked for assistance in dealing with it.
The BSA does not permit the use
of corporal punishment by unit leaders when
disciplining youth members.
The unit committee should review
repetitive or serious incidents of misbehavior in
consultation with the parents of the child to
determine a course of corrective action including
possible revocation of the youth's membership in the
unit.
If problem behavior persists,
units may revoke a Scout's membership in that unit.
When a unit revokes a Scout's membership, it should
promptly notify the council of the action.
The unit should inform the Scout
executive about all incidents that result in a
physical injury or involve allegations of sexual
misconduct by a youth member with another youth
member.
Each Cub Scout den and Webelos
Scout den and each chartered Cub Scout pack, Boy
Scout troop, Varsity Scout team, and Venturing crew
shall have one leader, 21 years of age or older, who
shall be registered and serve as the unit or den
leader. A unit leader may not serve simultaneously
in any other position within the same unit. The head
of the chartered organization or chartered
organization representative and the local council
must approve the registration of the unit or den
leader on the appropriate form.
Primary reference: Rules and
Regulations of the Boy Scouts of America
Leadership Requirements for Trips and Outings
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Two-deep leadership:
Two registered adult leaders, or one
registered adult and a parent of a
participating Scout, one of whom must be at
least 21 years of age or older, are required
for all trips or outings. There are a few
instances, such as patrol activities, when
no adult leadership is required. Coed
overnight activities require male and female
adult leaders, both of whom must be 21 years
of age or older, and one of whom must be a
registered member of the BSA.
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During transportation to and from planned
Scout outings,
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Meet for departure at a designated area.
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Prearrange a schedule for periodic
checkpoint stops as a group.
-
Plan a daily destination point.
A common departure site and a daily
destination point are a must. If you cannot
provide two adults for each vehicle, the
minimum required is one adult and two or
more youth members - never one on one.
Safety rule of four:
No fewer than four individuals (always with
the minimum of two adults) go on any
backcountry expedition or campout. If an
accident occurs, one person stays with the
injured, and two go for help. Additional
adult leadership requirements must reflect
an awareness of such factors as size and
skill level of the group, anticipated
environmental conditions, and overall degree
of challenge.
Male and female leaders require separate
sleeping facilities. Married couples may
share the same quarters if appropriate
facilities are available.
Single-room or dormitory-type accommodations
for Scouting units:
Adults and youth of the same gender may
occupy dormitory or single-room
accommodations, provided there is a minimum
of two adults and four youth. Both adults
are required to be youth-protection trained.
Adults must establish separation barriers or
privacy zones such as temporary blanket or
sheet walls in order to keep their sleeping
area and dressing area separated from the
youth.
Male and female youth participants will
not share the same sleeping facility.
When staying in tents, no youth will stay
in the tent of an adult other than his or
her parent or guardian.
If separate shower and latrine facilities
are not available, separate times for male
and female use should be scheduled and
posted for showers. The buddy system should
be used for latrines by having one person
wait outside the entrance, or provide
Occupied and Unoccupied signs and/or inside
door latches.
Adult leaders need to respect the privacy of
youth members in situations where the youth
are changing clothes or taking showers, and
intrude only to the extent that health and
safety require. Adults also need to protect
their own privacy in similar situations.
Two-deep adult leadership is required for
flying activities. For basic orientation
flights, the adult licensed pilot in control
of the aircraft is sufficient for the flight
while two-deep leadership is maintained on
the ground.
Who Can
Instruct Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat
Training?
Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat
training can be given by any person authorized by
the council, including a BSA Aquatics resource
person, a unit leader with aquatics skill, or any
other person with aquatics knowledge or experience
whom the local council has approved.
Safe
Swim Defense
Before a BSA group may engage in
swimming activities of any kind, a minimum of
one adult leader must complete Safe Swim Defense
training, have a commitment card (No. 34243)
with them, and agree to use the eight defenses
in this plan.
One of the best opportunities
for Safe Swim Defense training is in summer
camp. The eight defenses are:
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1. Qualified Supervision
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All swimming activity must be supervised
by a mature and conscientious adult age 21
or older who understands and knowingly
accepts responsibility for the well-being
and safety of youth members in his or her
care, who is experienced in the water and
confident of his or her ability to respond
in the event of an emergency, and who is
trained in and committed to compliance with
the eight points of BSA Safe Swim Defense.
(It is strongly recommended that all units
have at least one adult or older youth
member currently trained as a BSA Lifeguard
to assist in the planning and conduct of all
swimming activity.)
-
2. Physical Fitness
-
Require evidence of fitness for swimming
activity with a complete health history from
physician, parent, or legal guardian.
The adult supervisor should adjust all
supervision, discipline, and protection to
anticipate any potential risks associated
with individual health conditions. In the
event of any significant health conditions,
the unit leader should require proof of an
examination by a physician.
- Those with physical disabilities can enjoy and
benefit from aquatics if the disabilities are
known and necessary precautions are taken.
3. Safe Area
When swimming in areas not regularly
maintained and used for swimming activity,
have lifeguards and swimmers systematically
examine the bottom of the swimming area to
determine varying depths, deep holes, rocks,
and stumps. Mark off the area for three
groups: not more than 3 1/2 feet deep for
nonswimmers; from shallow water to just over
the head for beginners; deep water not more
than 12 feet for swimmers. A participant
should not be permitted to swim in an area
where he cannot readily recover and maintain
his footing, or cannot maintain his position
on the water, because of swimming ability or
water flow. When setting up a safe swimming
area in natural waters, use poles stuck in
the bottom, or plastic bottles, balloons, or
sticks attached to rock anchors with twine
for boundary markers. Enclose nonswimmer and
beginner areas with buoy lines (twine and
floats) between markers. Mark the outer
bounds of the swimmer area with floats. Be
sure that clear-water depth is at least 7
feet before allowing anyone to dive into the
water. Diving is prohibited from any height
more than 40 inches above the water surface;
feet-first entry is prohibited from more
than 60 inches above the water. For any
entry from more than 18 inches above the
water surface, clear-water depth must be 10
to 12 feet. Only surface swimming is
permitted in turbid water. Swimming is not
permitted in water over 12 feet deep, in
turbid water where poor visibility and depth
would interfere with emergency recognition
or prompt rescue, or in whitewater, unless
all participants wear appropriate personal
flotation devices and the supervisor
determines that swimming with personal
flotation equipment is safe under the
circumstances.
4. Lifeguards on Duty
Swim only where there are lifeguards on
duty. For unit swims in areas where
lifeguards are not provided by others, the
supervisor should designate two capable
swimmers as lifeguards. Station them
ashore, equipped with a lifeline (a 100-foot
length of 3/8-inch nylon cord). In an
emergency, one carries out the line; the
other feeds it out from shore, then pulls in
his partner and the person being helped. In
addition, if a boat is available, have two
people, preferably capable swimmers, take it
out - one rowing and the other equipped with
a 10-foot pole or extra oar. Provide one
guard for every 10 people in the water, and
adjust the number and positioning of guards
as needed to protect the particular area and
activity.
5. Lookout
Station a lookout on the shore where it is
possible to see and hear everything in all
areas. The lookout may be the adult in
charge of the swim and may give the buddy
signals.
6. Ability Groups
Divide into three ability groups:
Nonswimmers, beginners, and swimmers. Keep
each group in its own area. Nonswimmers have
not passed a swimming test. Beginners must
pass this test: jump feetfirst into water
over the head in depth, level off, swim 25
feet on the surface. Stop, turn sharply,
resume swimming as before and return to the
starting place. Swimmers pass this test:
jump feet-first into water over the head in
depth. Level off and swim 75 yards in a
strong manner using one or more of the
following strokes: sidestroke, breaststroke,
trudgen, or crawl; then swim 25 yards using
an easy resting backstroke. The 100 yards
must be completed in one swim without stops
and must include at least one sharp turn.
After completing the swim, rest by floating. These classification tests should be
renewed annually, preferably at the
beginning of the season.
7. Buddy System
Pair every youth with another in the same
ability group. Buddies check in and out
of the swimming area together. Emphasize
that each buddy lifeguards his buddy. Check
everyone in the water about every 10
minutes, or as needed to keep the buddies
together. The adult in charge signals for a
buddy check with a single blast of a whistle
or ring of a bell and a call of "Buddies!"
The adult counts slowly to 10 while buddies
join and raise hands and remain still and
silent. Guards check all areas, count the
pairs, and compare the total with the number
known to be in the water. Signal two blasts
or bells to resume swimming. Signal three
blasts or bells for checkout.
8. Discipline
Be sure everyone understands and agrees that
swimming is allowed only with proper
supervision and use of the complete Safe
Swim Defense. The applicable rules
should be presented and learned prior to the
outing, and should be reviewed for all
participants at the water's edge just before
the swimming activity begins. Scouts should
respect and follow all directions and rules
of the adult supervisor. When people know
the reason for rules and procedures they are
more likely to follow them. Be strict and
fair, showing no favoritism.
Classification of Swimming Ability
Swimmer Test
The swimmer test demonstrates the
minimum level of swimming ability required for safe
deep-water swimming. The various components of the
test evaluate the several skills essential to this
minimum level of swimming ability:
Jump feetfirst into water over the head
in depth, level off, and begin swimming.
Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one
or more of the following strokes:
sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl;
then swim 25 yards using an easy, resting
backstroke. The 100 yards must be completed
in one swim without stops and must include
at least one sharp turn. After completing
the swim, rest by floating.
The test administrator must objectively evaluate
the individual performance of the test, and in
so doing should keep in mind the purpose of each
test element.
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"Jump feetfirst into water over the head in
depth, level off, and begin swimming. . . ."
The swimmer must be able to make
an abrupt entry into deep water and begin
swimming without any aids. Walking in from
shallow water, easing in from the edge or down a
ladder, pushing off from side or bottom, or
gaining forward momentum by diving do not
satisfy this requirement.
". . . Swim 75 yards in a strong manner
using one or more of the following strokes:
sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl;
. . ."
The swimmer must be able to
cover distance with a strong, confident stroke.
The 75 yards must not be the outer limit of the
swimmer's ability; completion of the distance
should give evidence of sufficient stamina to
avoid undue risks. Dog-paddling and strokes
repeatedly interrupted and restarted are not
sufficient; underwater swimming is not
permitted. The itemized strokes are inclusive.
Any strong side or breaststroke or any strong
overarm stroke (including the back crawl) is
acceptable.
". . . swim 25 yards using an easy, resting
backstroke . . ."
The swimmer must indicate the
ability to execute a restful, free-breathing
backstroke that can be used to avoid exhaustion
during swimming activity. This element of the
test necessarily follows the more strenuous
swimming activity to show that the swimmer is,
in fact, able to use the backstroke as a relief
from exertion. The change of stroke must be
accomplished in deep water without any push-off
or other aid. Any variation of the elementary
may suffice if it clearly provides opportunity
for the swimmer to rest and regain wind.
". . . The 100 yards must be swum
continuously and include at least one sharp
turn. . . ."
The total distance is to be
covered without rest stops. The sharp turn
simply demonstrates the swimmer's ability to
reverse direction in deep water without
assistance or push-off from side or bottom.
". . . After completing the swim, rest by
floating."
This critically important
component of the test evaluates the swimmer's
ability to maintain in the water indefinitely
even though exhausted or otherwise unable to
continue swimming. Treading water or swimming in
place will further tire the swimmer and are
therefore unacceptable. The duration of the
float test is not significant, except that it
must be long enough for the test administrator
to determine that the swimmer is, in fact,
resting and could likely continue to do so for a
prolonged time. The drownproofing technique may
be sufficient if clearly restful, but it is not
preferred. If the test is completed except for
the floating requirement, the swimmer may be
retested on the floating only (after
instruction) provided that the test
administrator is confident that the swimmer can
initiate the float when exhausted.
Reference: Swimming and Lifesaving merit badge pamphlets
Beginner Test
Jump feetfirst into water over
the head in depth, level off, swim 25 feet on the
surface, stop, turn sharply, resume swimming as
before, and return to starting place.
The entry and turn serve the same
purpose as in the swimmer test. The swimming can be
done with any stroke, but no underwater swimming is
permitted. The stop assures that the swimmer can
regain a stroke if it is interrupted. The test
demonstrates that the beginning swimmer is ready to
learn deepwater skills and has the minimum ability
required for safe swimming in a confined area in
which shallow water, sides, or other support is less
than 25 feet from any point in the water.
Pool
and Surf Swimming
The Safe Swim Defense applies to
swimming at the beach, private or public pool,
wilderness pond, stream, lake, or anywhere Scouts
swim. Here are some additional points for the pool
and the surf.
Pool - If the swimming activity is
in a public facility where others are using the pool
at the same time, and the pool operator provides
guard personnel, there may be no need for additional
designation of Scout lifeguards and lookout.
The buddy system is critically
important, however, even in a public pool. Remember,
even in a crowd, you are alone without protection if
no one is attentive to your circumstances.
The rule that people swim only in
water suited to their ability and with others of
similar ability applies in a pool environment. Most
public pools divide shallow and deep water, and this
may be sufficient for defining appropriate swimming
areas. If not, the supervisor should clearly
indicate to the participating Scouts the appropriate
areas of the public facility. Although such
procedures add a margin of safety, their use may not
always be practical when the swim activity is
conducted at a public facility where non-Scouts are
present. A responsible adult supervisor, who
understands his or her responsibility and the
elements of safety, can exercise discretion
regarding certain procedures while maintaining
safety.
Surf - The surf swimming environment
of wave action, currents, tides, undertow, runouts,
and sea pests like stinging jellyfish requires
precautions for safe swimming that aren't necessary
in other environments. A swimmer's physical
condition is very important and should enable the
swimmer to recover footing in waves, swim vigorously
for at least five minutes without becoming
exhausted, and remain calm and in control when faced
with unexpected conditions.
Designated swimming areas are marked
by flags or pennants that are easily seen. Beginners
and nonswimmers are positioned inshore from the
standing lifeguards equipped with reach poles.
Better swimmers are permitted seaward of the
lifeguard but must remain shoreward of anchored
marker buoys. The lifeguard-to-swimmer ratio should
always be 1-to-10, with a rescue team stationed at
the beach area and supplied with a rescue tube or
torpedo buoy.
Safety
Afloat
Safety Afloat has been developed to promote
boating and boating safety and to set standards
for safe unit activity afloat. Before a BSA
group may engage in an excursion, expedition, or
trip on the water (canoe, raft, sailboat,
motorboat, rowboat, tube, or other craft), adult
leaders for such activity must complete Safety
Afloat Training, No. 34159C, have a commitment
card, No. 34242A, with them, and be dedicated to
full compliance with all nine points of Safety
Afloat.
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1. Qualified Supervision
-
- All activity afloat must be supervised by a
mature and conscientious adult age 21 or older
who understands and knowingly accepts
responsibility for the well-being and safety of
the children in his or her care, who is
experienced and qualified in the particular
watercraft skills and equipment involved in the
activity, and who is committed to compliance
with the nine points of BSA Safety Afloat. One
such supervisor is required for each 10 people,
with a minimum of two adults for any one group.
At least one supervisor must be age 21 or older,
and the remaining supervisors must be age 18 or
older. All supervisors must complete BSA Safety
Afloat and Safe Swim Defense training and rescue
training for the type of watercraft to be used
in the activity, and at least one must be
trained in CPR. It is strongly recommended that
all units have at least one adult or older youth
member currently trained as a BSA Lifeguard to
assist in the planning and conducting of all
activity afloat.
For Cub Scouts: The ratio
of adult supervisors to participants is one to
five.
2. Physical Fitness
All persons must present evidence of
fitness assured by a complete health history
from physician, parent, or legal guardian.
The adult supervisor should adjust all
supervision, discipline, and protection to
anticipate any potential risks associated
with individual health conditions. In the
event of any significant health conditions,
the adult leader should require proof of an
examination by a physician.
Those with physical disabilities can enjoy and
benefit from aquatics if the disabilities are
known and necessary precautions taken.
3. Swimming Ability
A person who has not been classified as a
"swimmer" may ride as a passenger in a
rowboat or motorboat with an adult "swimmer"
or in a canoe, raft, or sailboat with an
adult certified as a lifeguard or a
lifesaver by a recognized agency. In all
other circumstances, the person must be a
swimmer to participate in an activity
afloat. "Swimmers" must pass this test:
Jump feetfirst into water over the
head in depth, level off, and begin
swimming. Swim 75 yards in a strong
manner using one or more of the
following strokes: sidestroke,
breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl; then
swim 25 yards using an easy, resting
backstroke. The 100 yards must be swum
continuously and include at least one
sharp turn. After completing the swim,
rest by floating.
This qualification test should be renewed
annually.
4. Personal Flotation Equipment
Properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved
personal flotation devices (PFDs) must be
worn by all persons engaged in activity on
the open water (rowing, canoeing, sailing,
boardsailing, motorboating, waterskiing,
rafting, tubing, kayaking, and
surfboarding). Type II and III PFDs are
recommended.
5. Buddy System
All activity afloat must adhere to the
principles of the buddy system. The
buddy system assures that for every person
involved in aquatics activity, at least one
other person is always aware of his or her
situation and prepared to lend assistance
immediately when needed. Not only does every
individual have a buddy, but every craft
should have a ''buddy boat'' when on the
water.
6. Skill Proficiency
All participants in activity afloat must
be trained and experienced in watercraft
handling skills, safety, and emergency
procedures. (a) For unit activity on white
water, all participants must complete
special training by a BSA Aquatics
Instructor or qualified whitewater
specialist. (b) Powerboat operators must be
able to meet requirements for the
Motorboating merit badge or equivalent. (c)
Except for whitewater and powerboat
operation as noted above, either a minimum
of three hours' training and supervised
practice or meeting requirements for "basic
handling tests" is required for all float
trips or open-water excursions using
unpowered craft.
For Cub Scouts: Canoeing and rafting
for Cub Scouts (including Webelos Scouts) is to
be limited to council/district events on flat
water ponds or controlled lake areas free of
powerboats and sailboats. Prior to recreational
canoeing, Cub Scouts are to be instructed in
basic handling skills and safety practices.
7. Planning
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Float Plan. Know exactly where
the unit will put in, where the unit
will pull out, and precisely what course
will be followed. Determine all stopover
points in advance. Estimate
travel time with ample margins to
avoid traveling under time pressures.
Obtain accurate and current maps and
information on the waterway to be
traveled, and discuss the course with
others who have made the trip under
similar seasonal conditions.
(Preferably, an adult member of the
group should run the course before the
unit trip.)
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Local Rules. Determine which
state and local laws or regulations are
applicable. If private property is to be
used or crossed, obtain written
permission from the owners. All such
rules must be strictly observed.
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Notification. The float plan must
be filed with the parents of
participants and a member of the unit
committee. For any activity using canoes
on running water, the float plan must be
filed with the local council service
center. Notify appropriate authorities,
such as Coast Guard, state police, or
park personnel, when their jurisdiction
is involved. When the unit returns from
this activity, persons given the float
plan should be so advised.
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Weather. Check the weather
forecast just before setting out, know
and understand the seasonal weather
pattern for the region, and keep an
alert "weather eye." Imminent rough
weather should bring all ashore
immediately.
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Contingencies. Planning must
anticipate possible emergencies or other
circumstances that could force a change
in the original plan. Identify and
consider all such circumstances in
advance so that appropriate contingency
plans can be developed.
For Cub Scouts: Cub Scout canoeing and
rafting does not include "trips" or
"expeditions" and is not to be conducted on
running water (i.e., rivers or streams);
therefore, some procedures are inapplicable.
Suitable weather requires clear skies, no
appreciable wind, and warm air and water.
8. Equipment
All equipment must be suited to the craft, to
the water conditions, and to the individual;
must be in good repair; and must satisfy all
state and U.S. Coast Guard requirements. To the
extent possible, carry spare equipment. On long
trips or when spare equipment is not available,
carry repair materials. Have appropriate rescue
equipment available for immediate use.
9. Discipline
All participants should know, understand,
and respect the rules and procedures for
safe unit activity afloat. The applicable
rules should be presented and learned prior
to the outing, and should be reviewed for
all participants at the water's edge just
before the activity begins. When Scouts know
and understand the reasons for the rules,
they will observe them. When fairly and
impartially applied, rules do not interfere
with the fun. Rules for safety, plus common
sense and good judgment, keep the fun from
being interrupted by tragedy.
Note: For cruising vessels
(excluding rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and rafts, but
including sailboats and powerboats longer than 20
feet) used in adult-supervised unit activities by a
chartered Venturing crew or Sea Scout ship
specializing in watercraft operations or used in
adult-supervised program activity in connection with
any high-adventure program or other activity under
the direct control of the National Council, the
standards and procedures in a forthcoming Sea Scout
manual may be substituted for the "Safety Afloat"
standards.
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Properly fitted U.S. Coast
Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs)
must be worn by all persons engaged in activity on
the open water (rowing, canoeing, sailing,
boardsailing, motorboating, waterskiing, rafting,
tubing, and kayaking).
Only U.S. Coast Guard-approved
equipment (types I, II, or III) is acceptable for
use in Scouting aquatics. Ski belts are not
acceptable. Scouts and unit leaders should learn
which type is appropriate for each specific
circumstance and how to wear and check for proper
fit.
Water
Clarity
Swimming activity in turbid water
should be limited to surface swimming. Turbid water
exists when a 12-inch white disk at the depth of 3
feet is not visible from above the surface of the
water. Underwater swimming, headfirst entry (except
for racing dives), and board diving are not
permitted in turbid water. Supervised
instruction in lifesaving skills and surface diving
may be conducted in confined areas of turbid water
not exceeding 8 feet in depth and free of bottom
hazards.
Snorkeling and scuba skills are
taught and practiced only in clear water. Clear
water exists when a 12-inch disk at a depth of 8
feet is visible from above the surface of the water.
BSA
Lifeguard
BSA Lifeguard training has been
established to provide units (packs, troops, teams,
and posts) with qualified individuals within their
own membership to give knowledgeable supervision for
activities on or in the water. The first standard in
the Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat guidelines
establishes a need for qualified supervision. An
adult currently trained as a BSA Lifeguard or an
adult leader assisted by a Scout holding BSA
Lifeguard training meets this requirement. To enroll
in the BSA Lifeguard course, you must be at least 14
years of age or have completed the eighth grade. The
latest requirements for BSA Lifeguard training are
included on the application form, No. 34435A. Every
unit leader is encouraged to become trained or to be
certain that at least one youth or adult member of
the unit has such training.
Swimming
Swimming areas should be large
enough to avoid crowding (minimum of 40 square feet
per swimmer). Note the following in accordance with
Safe Swim Defense rules. Mark off the area for
three groups: not more than 3.5 feet deep for
nonswimmers; from shallow water to just over the
head for beginners; deep water not more than 12 feet
for swimmers.
Diving
and Elevated Entry
"Diving" refers to any water
entry where the feet are not making first contact
with the water. "Elevated entry" refers to any water
entry from a height more than 18 inches above the
water. According to BSA Safe Swim Defense standards,
no diving or swimming activity of any kind is done
in water with a depth greater than 12 feet.
All water entry must be feetfirst
where the water has less than 7 feet of unobstructed
depth. A leaping entry is recommended where water is
at or above head level; a step-down or jump-down
entry from a sitting position is recommended for
shallower water.
No diving is permitted in water
with less than 7 feet of unobstructed depth. Diving
is permitted in clear water over 7 feet deep from a
dock, pier, or platform that is no more than 18
inches above the water surface. For elevated entry
from 18 inches high but less than 40 inches above
the water surface, clear and unobstructed water
depth must be at least 9 feet. The water must be
clear enough to enable supervisory and guard
personnel to see the diver at the deepest part of
the plunge.
Board diving is permitted only
from boards, mounted on a fixed (not floating)
platform or deck, no more than 40 inches
(approximately 1 meter) above the water surface.
Clear water depth below the board should be 9 to 12
feet. A guard or supervisor should be positioned
where the diver can be seen at all times beneath the
surface. There should be no other surface or
underwater activity or obstruction for at least 15
feet on either side of the board and 25 feet in
front of the board. Diving should always be done
straight ahead from the board, never to the sides.
Any elevated entry from a height
greater than 40 inches must be feetfirst and only
from a fixed platform or solid footing no more than
60 inches above the water surface. Clear water depth
should be 10 to 12 feet. Other protective measures
and distances are the same as for board diving.
Scuba (Venturers
and older Scouts only)
Any person possessing,
displaying, or using scuba equipment in connection
with any Scouting-related activity must be currently
certified by the National Association of Underwater
Instructors (NAUI) or the Professional Association
of Diving Instructors (PADI). These two agencies are
recognized by the Boy Scouts of America for scuba
training and instruction. Alternatively, if PADI or
NAUI training and instruction is not available,
certification may be accepted from other agencies
that comply with Recreational Scuba Training Council
(RSTC) guidelines, provided that such acceptance has
been expressly approved by the BSA local council in
consultation with the BSA national Health and Safety
Service.
Scuba programs may be a part of
Boy Scout or Venturing activities for participants
who are 14 years of age or older. Persons meeting
the age requirement and properly certified may
participate in group dives under the supervision of
a responsible adult who is currently certified as a
dive master, assistant instructor, or any higher
rating from NAUI or PADI. Student divers must be
under the supervision of a currently certified NAUI
or PADI instructor. No exceptions to the BSA age
requirement are permitted, and any NAUI or PADI age
requirements for those 14 and older shall be
followed in all Scout-related activities. A
14-year-old participant with a junior diver
certification may dive only when accompanied by a
buddy who is a certified open-water diver at least
18 years old.
Because of lack of frequency of
diving by most sports divers, it is important that
any certified divers be screened and evaluated by a
certified diving instructor before participating in
BSA-related activities. The skills to be evaluated
include the following:
- Use of buoyancy control device
- Giant stride entry
- Removal and replacement of weight
belt
- Neutral buoyancy
- Snorkel to regulator exchange
- Removal and replacement of scuba
unit under the water
- Face mask removal, replacement,
and clearing
- Emergency swimming ascent
- Alternate air source ascent
- Predive safety drill
- Five-point ascent and descent
- Deepwater exits
- Simulation of surface procedures
BSA
Policy on Asthma/Reactive Airway Disease as Related
to Scuba Activities
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Persons with symptomatic or active
asthma/reactive airway disease (commonly
known as RAD) should not be allowed to scuba
dive. This would include, at a minimum,
anyone who:
- Is currently taking medication
for asthma/RAD
- Has received treatment for
bronchospasm in the past five years
- Has exercise induced bronchospasm
- Has cold-induced bronchospasm
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Persons with asymptomatic asthma/RAD who
wish to scuba dive should be referred to a
pulmonary medical specialist who is also
knowledgeable about diving medicine for a
complete medical examination, including
exercise and bronchial challenge testing.
Any determination of fitness for diving must
be made on the basis of such examination and
specific testing.
Snorkeling, BSA
The Snorkeling, BSA, requirements
have been developed to introduce Scout-age children
to the special skills, equipment, and safety
precautions associated with snorkeling; to encourage
the development of aquatics skills that promote
fitness and recreation; and to provide a solid
foundation of skills and knowledge for those who
later will participate in more advanced underwater
activity.
Any trained Aquatics Instructor, BSA,
may serve as a counselor. A person recognized and
certified as a snorkeling instructor by the
Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI),
the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI),
American Red Cross, or the Young Men's Christian
Association (YMCA) also qualifies as a Snorkeling,
BSA, counselor.
Instructions must be conducted in
clear, confined water with a maximum depth of 12
feet. A swimming pool is recommended. All
requirements must be completed as stated on the
application form, which is available at your local
council service center. The counselor may not omit,
vary, or add requirements. The requirements are
presented in the order in which they should be
taught to the Scout. The completed application
should be submitted to the local council service
center by the counselor or unit leader.
BSA Snorkeling Safety
Snorkeling Safety is the recommended procedure
for conducting group snorkeling at a private or public pool,
wilderness pond, stream, or wherever the water looks inviting
enough to take a dip
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Qualified Supervision
All snorkeling activity must be
supervised by a mature and conscientious adult
age 21 or older who understands and knowingly
accepts responsibility for the well-being and
safety of the youth members in his or her care;
who is experienced in the water and is confident
of his or her ability to respond in the event of
an emergency; and who is trained in and
committed to compliance with the eight points of
BSA Snorkeling Safety.
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Physical Fitness
All persons must present
evidence of fitness for snorkeling activity with
a complete health history from physician,
parent, or legal guardian. The adult supervisor
should adjust all supervision, discipline, and
protection to anticipate any potential risks
associated with individual health conditions. In
the event of any significant health conditions,
a medical evaluation by a physician should be
required by the adult leader. Those with
physical disabilities can enjoy and benefit from
aquatics if the disabilities are known and the
necessary precautions are taken.
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Safe Area
Training in the use of
snorkeling equipment shall be performed in
clear, confined water that is not more than 12
feet deep.
Snorkeling may be done in water
outside of a confined area under the direction
of the qualified supervisor if the participant
has met the BSA snorkeling requirements. The
local conditions and ability of those engaged in
the snorkeling activity should be considered by
the qualified supervisor to determine if any
special precautions should be taken.
Snorkeling shall not be done if
boat traffic, waves, current, water temperature,
or weather conditions in the area are deemed
unsafe by the qualified supervisor. Time in the
water should be adjusted based on the water
temperature.
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Proper Equipment
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The snorkeling equipment shall be
properly fitted and in good repair.
-
The use of snorkeling vests and personal
flotation devices is at the discretion
of the qualified supervisor based on the
local conditions and the ability of the
person(s) engaged in the snorkeling
activity.
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A diver-down flag must be used in
accordance with local rules and
regulations.
-
Appropriate lifesaving equipment in good
repair is ready and available to the
qualified lookout while supervising the
snorkeling activity.
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Qualified Lookout
The qualified lookouts are
stationed in a location (either afloat or
ashore) where it is possible to see and hear all
those engaged in the snorkeling activity. The
qualified lookout is a strong swimmer with
lifeguard skills (i.e., competent swimmers with
basic water-rescue skills serve as both lookouts
and lifeguards). A minimum of two qualified
lookouts are provided with at least one
qualified lookout for every eight snorkelers in
the water.
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Ability
Beginners and nonswimmers in
clear, confined water of the appropriate depth
may use masks and fins, separately or together,
under close supervision. Training for
Snorkeling, BSA is limited to qualified
swimmers.
Snorkeling in open water is
limited to those classified as swimmers unless
the supervisor determines that those in the
other ability groups may safely participate
while wearing a properly fitted personal
flotation device.
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