Safety Resources and Incident Reporting
In Scouting,we will not compromise the safety of our youth,volunteers,and employees. Safety is a value that must be taught and reinforced at every opportunity,and we are all responsible for holding each other accountable to provide a safe environment for every participant.
If someone is in immediate danger or needs emergency medical care,call 911 first.Suspected abuse must be reported to law enforcement. Then use the reporting tools below to tell the council.
Report an Incident
When incidents do occur,we expect a timely,clear,and complete report. These tools are more than forms:they help you share every essential detail with the council so we can learn from the data and improve program guidance.
Incident Information Reporting Tool
For injuries,illnesses,and incidents requiring medical attention beyond basic first aid. Use it for situations during Scouting activities or on council-owned properties.
Open the formYouth Protection/Membership Infraction Reporting Tool
For reporting abuse,violations of Scouting America policies,or inappropriate behavior involving Scouts,leaders,parents,or others.
Open the formNear Miss Incident Information Reporting Tool
For incidents that could have resulted in harm but did not. Near misses with clear lessons learned reveal chances to improve safety performance and program practices.
Open the formKara McKeon
Assistant Director of Support Service and Safe Scouting Director
Start Where You Are
Whether you just took on a role or you’ve led for years,here is what to focus on.
Your safety starter list
- Complete Safeguarding Youth Training. It is mandatory for every adult.
- Learn the four points of SAFE.
- Familiarize yourself with the Guide to Safe Scouting.
- Read the Youth Protection and Barriers to Abuse FAQs,including the ban on one-on-one adult and youth interactions.
- Know where to report:bookmark the three tools in Report an Incident.
Keep your unit sharp
- Before every activity:run the SAFE Checklistand review the Age-Appropriate Guidelines.
- At meetings:share a Safety Momentto keep safety a habit.
- Each year:refresh Annual Health and Medical Records,confirm Safeguarding Youth Training is current,and update First Aid/CPR certifications.
- Planning outdoors:look at Wilderness First Aidtraining for your adults.
- After any incident or close call:file a report promptly so the council can learn and improve.
Safety Comes First
We are committed to injury and illness prevention by building safety into our handbooks,literature,and training materials,including the Guide to Safe Scouting. Leaders are expected to use the four points of SAFE when delivering the program.
Supervised.Youth are supervised by qualified and trustworthy adults who set the example for safety.
Assessed.Activities are assessed for risks.
Fitness and skill.Pre-requisite fitness and skill levels are confirmed before participation.
Equipment.Appropriate equipment is used,and environmental conditions are monitored.
How we prevent abuse
- Mandatory Safeguarding Youth Training
- Criminal background checks
- Banning one-on-one adult and youth interactions
- Mandatory reporting of suspected abuse to law enforcement
- A volunteer screening database
Resource Library
Everything in one place,grouped by what you’re trying to do.
Plan and Prepare
Protect Youth
Need Help?
Start with your unit commissioner or District Executive,or reach the council office at 401.351.8700. For safety and reporting questions,email Kara McKeon.