HEALTH AND SAFETY

Every Scout Leader should do all he can to make sure all activities his or her unit participates in fall withing the guidelines of the Boy Scouts of America. These guidelines are outlined in the B.S.A. Publication Guide to Safe Scouting. You can now view or download (in .pdf format) this document from the National B.S.A Web-Site. Just click the red hyperlink and then click on the Resources section. Note: to return to this page you must either use the back function of your browser or re-enter our web-site.

A few things to keep in mind while you are planning your summer:

Leadership: 2-deep leadership: 2 registered adult leaders, or one 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. If your troop os large enough you may need more than 2, remember 2 is the minimum.

Safety Rule of 4: No fewer than four individuals (always with the minimum of two adults) go on any backcountry expedition or camping.

Tents: When staying in tents, no youth will stay in the tent of an adult other than his parent or guardian. Only flashlights and electric lanterns are permitted in tents. No flames in tents is a rule that must be enforced. Never use liquid fuel stoves, heaters, lanterns. Lighted candles, matches, and other flame sources in or near tents.

Fireworks: The Boy Scouts of America prohibits the securing, use, and display of fireworks in conjunction with programs and activities except where the fireworks display is conducted under the auspices of a certified or licensed fireworks control expert. Local councils may not authorize any group or chartered unit activity for or on behalf of its members, units or district to sell fireworks as a fund-raising or money-earning activity.

Tour Permits: Local tour permit required for all trips less than 500 miles one way. A National tour permit is needed if trip is longer than 500 miles one way or crossing national borders. Apply for local tour permits two weeks in advance and National permits four weeks in advance.

ATTENTION TOUR LEADERS!!!

There is a new requirement found on the local tour permit that needs to be followed. Each unit leader who is taking a group of Scouts on an activity requiring a tour permit must sign, stating that he has in his possession and has read the publication Guide to Safe Scouting.

The Guide to Safe Scouting can be purchased at the Scout Service Center for $3.00. Its purpose is to explain to all Scouters the safety aspects of any Scout activity. It also lists the activities that are not approved by the BSA.

NRA CERTIFICATION

If you are interested in becoming NRA (National Rifle Association) Certified please call Richard Beesley at 489-7580.