New version of Guide to Safe Scouting now available

Can Scouts go skateboarding? What about wakeboarding?

Are they allowed to fire a cannon? Throw a tomahawk? Explore an abandoned mine? Sell fireworks?

Yes, yes, no, yes, no, and no.

How did I know all that? Easy. I read the Guide to Safe Scouting.

The comprehensive policies and procedures manual, available online, is a one-stop safety shop for packs, troops, teams, and crews.

And it has recently undergone a complete revision for 2011.

The last full printing of the Guide to Safe Scouting came out in 2007, though small revisions have been made since then. The latest version took two years to complete and features numerous revisions, additions, and deletions.

Even if you’re familiar with past versions of the Guide, BSA Health and Safety and Risk Management experts recommend re-reading it to make sure you’re up to date on the latest policies.

If you’re new to the Boy Scouts of America, now is the time to familiarize yourself with proper safety practices.

Just about any safety-related question you have is answered. For example…

  • Question: “Can my 17-year-old senior patrol leader drive a carload of guys to the weekend campout?”
    • Answer: No, that’s only allowed if certain conditions are met and he’s driving to or from an area, regional, or national Boy Scout activity or any Venturing event under the leadership of an adult. (see Section XI, “Transportation”)
  • Question: “I know Scouts cannot ride in the back of my truck on the way to a meeting, but what about in a parade?”
    • Answer: That rule can be relaxed for a parade, as long as certain safety precautions are followed. (see Section VIII, “Sports and Activities”)
  • Question: “Can my Webelos Scouts go scuba diving?”
    • Answer: No, only Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, and Venturers may participate in scuba. (see Section II, “Aquatics Safety”)

Find answers to all of your questions by reading the whole Guide. Be Prepared, and stay safe. It’s your responsibility.


About Bryan Wendell 3282 Articles
Bryan Wendell, an Eagle Scout, is the founder of Bryan on Scouting and a contributing writer.