Summer Aquatics Safety
Many units are taking advantage of the summer weather to participate in aquatics activities. Swimming in the backyard pool, at the nearby lake or at a municipal swimming pool are all fun summer activities. Some units may also be taking boating trips on lakes and rivers this summer. When participating in aquatics activities unit leaders are reminded that they must follow the principles listed in Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat.
All swimming and activity afloat must be supervised by a mature and conscientious adult 21 or older who:
• understands and knowingly accepts responsibility for the well-being and safety of youth members in his or her care;
• is experienced in the particular activity;
• is confident in his or her ability to respond appropriately in an emergency; and
• is trained and committed to the nine points of Safety Afloat and the eight points of Safe Swim Defense depending on the activity.
On-line training is available for both Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat. (See: http://www.scouting.org/Training/Adult.aspx)
Two new aquatics training programs have also been released this year for Aquatics Supervision – BSA Swimming and Water Rescue and BSA Paddle Craft Safety. These new training courses will help train unit leaders in the skills needed to conduct swimming and boating activities that are safe as well as fun, exiting and rewarding. Contact your local council aquatics committee to find out how you can take one of these new training courses.