This year as we celebrate the National Safety Council’s 25th anniversary of National Safety Month, the Patriots’ Path Risk Management Committee encourages all Scouts and Scouters to review some of the important guidelines and procedures available to help you provide a safe environment for all involved in the Scouting program.

We are spotlighting the following safety programs and resources:

Transporting Scouts Safely
Driving can be one of the most dangerous forms of travel. Motor vehicle accidents can lead to serious injuries and even fatalities — not only for the driver but for passengers and others on the road. Motor vehicle accidents typically produce the most frequent and severe liability claims affecting the Scouting family.

This Risk Zone PDF provides tips on:
• Ways to prevent distractions
• Fatigue while driving
• SUVs and vans
• Traveling with trailers
• Insurance information

Information on the use of vans as transportation is available by clicking here.

A Driver Improvement Program is available through your my.scouting.org account.
This program is based on the concepts of defensive driving, recognizing hazards, and preventable collisions. Go to the BSA Learn Center under expanded learning. Once completed, a certificate will be generated and the participant’s training records updated.

The Sweet Sixteen of BSA Safety
Few youth organizations encompass the breadth, volume, and diversity of physical activity common to Scouting, and none enjoy a better safety record. The key to maintaining and improving this exemplary record is the conscientious and trained adult leader who is attentive to safety concerns.

As an aid in the continuing effort to protect participants in a Scout activity, the BSA National Health and Safety Committee and the Council Services Division of the BSA National Council have developed the “Sweet Sixteen” of BSA safety procedures for physical activity. These 16 points, which embody good judgement and common sense, are applicable to all activities.

Scouting Safely Online Resources
A large BSA repository of safety related material and resources including the Guide to Safe Scouting, SAFE Checklist, Safety Moments, Annual Health and Medical Record, Incident Reporting information, Wilderness First Aid (WFA) Training, and Answers to Your General Health and Safety Questions.