Health and Safety Archives - Aaron On Scouting

Scouters in Action: Two incidents illustrate the value of CPR training

September 18, 2023 2

A Scout parent hears her husband calling for help — a toddler is floating face down in their backyard swimming pool. Another parent is picking up his son up from track practice and notices a commotion nearby —one of his son’s teammates has collapsed on the track.

“Just keep him talking.” How this Scout saved his friend from a possible suicide

September 4, 2023 7

Shawn Sweeney, a Scouts BSA youth in Texas, was on the phone with a longtime family friend when his friend confided that he was having some troubles and not feeling good about himself. Then he said, “I want to end it.”

BSA releases video, discussion guide for Suicide Prevention Month

August 21, 2023 0

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and the BSA has released a video and discussion guide designed to be used at meetings of the BSA’s programs aimed at older youth: Scouts BSA units, Venturing crews, Sea Scout ships and Exploring posts.

Hammock camping, the BSA way

July 31, 2023 22

When done correctly, hammock camping can result in a better night of sleep, a lighter backpack, and a smaller impact on the environment. On the other hand, an improper hammock setup can cause an idyllic scene to come crashing down – often literally.

Photo of the entrance to a swim area at Scout camp

Three aquatics topics to think about as we enter the hottest part of the summer

July 17, 2023 3

Right now, across the country, BSA youth of all ages are participating in a variety of aquatics activities. Here are three things to think about this time of the year, courtesy of my friends on the National Scouts BSA Program Committee.

Scouts and adults hiking at Philmont Scout Ranch

Adults must Be Prepared for high adventure, too

June 28, 2023 15

We at the BSA spend a lot of time teaching youth how to Be Prepared for rigorous Scouting activities. Since all Scouting activities are conducted under the engaged supervision of at least two conscientious adults,

A Scout enters the pool via a waterslide

Safe Swim Defense: What you need to know now that summer is here

June 15, 2023 1

One of the best ways for Scouts to have fun during the summer months is to go swimming. Before you do that, though, remember these three words: Safe. Swim. Defense. What is Safe Swim Defense?

Blast off safely with water-bottle rockets at your next unit event

June 8, 2023 1

Combine high-flying rockets with the cool spray of water and you’ve got an exciting way to have some summertime fun.

BSA reinforces commitment to safety during National Annual Meeting’s general session

June 1, 2023 2

“Safety is one of the most important things we do,” said Brad Tilden, the BSA’s brand-new national chair, as he kicked off the general session of the 2023 National Annual Meeting (NAM) this week in Atlanta.

Now is a great time to refocus on aquatics safety

May 25, 2023 2

Different organizations give it different names, but when it come down to it, it’s all about aquatics safety.