As troops prepare for summer camp and plan troop aquatics events, confusion often arises about who is authorized to perform swim classification tests. These tests are essential for safe aquatic adventures, including boating activities. The Guide to Safe Scouting, Hazardous Weather, Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat protocols (found in my.scouting training modules) apply to all Scouting America unit, district, and council swimming and boating activities. However, specific requirements vary based on the activity, location, and government regulations. Scouts BSA has collaborated with the National Aquatics Subcommittee to provide clarity on this important topic.
Two Types of Aquatic Events
- Troop-Level Events
For troop-led aquatics activities, leaders are responsible for program delivery and safety. They may administer swim classification tests by following guidance in Safe Swim Defense training and Chapter 5 of the Aquatics Supervision manual. This includes Scouts BSA advancement activities for Second Class and First Class ranks. - District/Council Events
For district/council-led aquatics activities, council staff and volunteers are responsible for program delivery and safety. Standards imposed by the National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) and state/local regulatory agencies may specify qualifications beyond Safe Swim Defense training for swim test administrators. The council is accountable for establishing procedures that meet these requirements, consistent with guidance provided in the Aquatics Supervision manual.
What This Means
- Troop Swim Tests
Self-Administration: Troops should perform swim test procedures as specified in Chapter 5 of the Aquatics Supervision manual for troop aquatic activities. Troops may self-conduct swim tests for their events and advancement activities with any adult who has current Safe Swim Defense training and provides active adult supervision.
Council Collaboration: Troops requiring additional assistance or resources for planned activities may work with their local councils to identify options for troop support in aquatics activities.
Out-of-Council Events: Troops attending camps or activities outside their council should contact the event beforehand to determine local swim test administration policies. - Camp & Event Swim Tests
Camp Variations: Details for camp swim test administration—both at camp and pre-camp—will vary since youth camp regulations differ by geographic area. Camps must follow all applicable national, state, and local requirements (National Camp Accreditation Program standards plus local codes and laws). Troops attending camps should refer to camp instructions or contact the camp directly to understand their specific policies and procedures.
Test Acceptance: Swim test results may not transfer between different locations or events., depending on local rules and regulations. If there are questions about whether a previously performed swim test will be accepted for an event, contact the event organizers for clarification.
Authorized Administrators: For district/council-level camps and events, the policies on swim test administrators will vary based on locality and council. Example administrators may include: American Red Cross Lifeguards, NCAP-certified Aquatics Instructors, certified water rescue personnel, or specific people whom the council’s aquatics committee vetted.
Path Forward
The Scouting America Aquatics Subcommittee is working on improving the process of swim checks and updating guidance for test administration. Questions? Please first contact your local council for local resources and policies. For general questions, please email outdoorprograms@scouting.org.
