Prior to any activity, use Scouting America SAFE Checklist to ensure the safety of all those involved.

All participants in official Scouting America activities should become familiar with the Guide to Safe Scouting and applicable program literature or manuals.

Be aware of state or local government regulations that supersede Scouting America practices, policies, and guidelines.

To assist in the safe delivery of the program you may find specific safety items that are related to requirements for the Adventure.

Before a Scouting America group may engage in any watercraft activity adult leaders for such activity must complete Safety Afloat training , have a commitment card, and be dedicated to full compliance with all nine points of Safety Afloat. (Through enforcement of these nine measures, most watercraft accidents can be prevented.) At least one of the adult leaders must be trained in CPR. Safety Afloat training may be obtained from my.scouting.org , at council summer camps, and at other council and district training events. – Supervision by an adult, 21 or older, who is trained in Scouting America Safety Afloat. At least one leader must be trained in first aid which includes CPR. Any swimming done in conjunction with the activity must be within Scouting America Safe Swim Defense standards.

The following information is specific to Cub Scout boating activities:

• Supervision—the ratio of adult supervisors to participants is one to five.
• Skill Proficiency—Canoeing, rowboating, and rafting for Cub Scouts (including Webelos Scouts) is limited to council/district events on flat-water ponds or controlled lake areas free of powerboats and sailboats. Prior to recreational canoeing, Cub Scouts are to be instructed in basic handling skills and practices.
• Planning—Canoeing, rowboating, and rafting do not include “trips” or “expeditions” and are not to be conducted on running water (i.e., rivers or streams); therefore, some procedures are inapplicable. Suitable weather requires clear skies, no appreciable wind, and warm air and water.
• Life jackets—All persons engaged in activity on the open water must wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.

Supervision by an adult, 21 or older, who is trained in Scouting America Safety Afloat. At least one leader must be trained in first aid which includes CPR. Any swimming done in conjunction with the activity must be within Scouting America Safe Swim Defense standards.

• Complete Scouting America Safety Afloat (30 minutes) training on my.scouting.
• Confirm enough adults who will serve as supervisors during the activity to maintain a ratio of one supervisor to every 5 Cub Scouts.
• Have buddy tags for everyone who will be near the water, youth, and adults.

During the Adventure:

• Give an overview and instruction on the points of Safety Afloat prior to the activity.
• Provide continuous, qualified adult supervision and discipline during the activity.

All participants, both Cub Scouts and adults, must wear a life jacket during boating activities. Review the Life Jackets / Personal Flotation Devices Safety Moment.