Boy Scouts of America

Knife Safety

SUMMARY

Hey Scouts! As you embark on your outdoor adventures, it’s essential to know the ins and outs of knife safety. The Totin’ Chip is your ticket to becoming a responsible tool user, and earning it comes with some important rules from the Guide to Safe Scouting’s knife policy. 

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

First off, let’s talk about the Totin’ Chip. It’s like your badge of honor for using knives safely. To get it, you need to learn about the parts of a knife, like the blade and handle. Knowing your knife is like knowing a good friend – it helps you use it the right way. And remember, a sharp knife is a safer knife! The Totin’ Chip training teaches you that a sharp blade needs less force to cut, making accidents less likely. 

Now, onto the checklist to keep in mind: 

  • Check your Totin’ Chip: Always have it with you when using a knife. It’s like your superhero cape for safe tool use! 
  • Inspect your knife: Look at your knife before using it. Is the blade clean, sharp, and in good shape? A well-cared-for knife is your best friend in the wilderness. 
  • Choose the right tool: Every job needs the right tool. Check if your knife matches the task. Using the right one not only makes things easier but keeps you safe. 
  • Create a safe zone: Before you start cutting, make a safe space. Keep enough room between you and others. Safety first, always! 
  • Hold it right: Follow the Totin’ Chip rules on how to grip your knife. A good grip means you’re in control, and that’s super important! 
  • Be aware: Look around before you start. Are there things that might get in your way? Let your buddies know what you’re up to. Teamwork makes the dream work! 

In a nutshell, being a sharp Scout means not just having a sharp knife but knowing how to use it safely. With your Totin’ Chip and these simple rules, you’re ready for any outdoor challenge that comes your way. Stay safe and Scout on! 

 

RESOURCES 

Bray Barnes

Director, Global Security Innovative
Strategies

Bray Barnes is a recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, Silver
Beaver, Silver Antelope, Silver Buffalo, and Learning for Life Distinguished
Service Award. He received the Messengers of Peace Hero award from
the royal family of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and he’s a life member of
the 101st Airborne Association and Vietnam Veterans Association. Barnes
serves as a senior fellow for the Global Federation of Competitiveness
Councils, a nonpartisan network of corporate CEOs, university presidents, and
national laboratory directors. He has also served as a senior executive for the
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, leading the first-responder program
and has two U.S. presidential appointments

David Alexander

Managing Member Calje

David Alexander is a Baden-Powell Fellow, Summit Bechtel Reserve philanthropist, and recipient of the Silver Buffalo and Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. He is the founder of Caljet, one of the largest independent motor fuels terminals in the U.S. He has served the Arizona Petroleum Marketers Association, Teen Lifeline, and American Heart Association. A triathlete who has completed hundreds of races, Alexander has also mentored the women’s triathlon team at Arizona State University.

Glenn Adams

President, CEO & Managing Director
Stonetex Oil Corp.

Glenn Adams is a recipient of the Silver Beaver, Silver Antelope, Silver Buffalo, and Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. He is the former president of the National Eagle Scout Association and established the Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award. He has more than 40 years of experience in the oil, gas, and energy fields, including serving as a president, owner, and CEO. Adams has also received multiple service awards from the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers.