The purpose of the Guide to Safe Scouting is to prepare
adult leaders to conduct Scouting activities in a safe and prudent
manner. The policies and guidelines have been established because
of the real need to protect members from known hazards that have
been identified through eighty-plus years of experience. Limitations
on certain activities should not be viewed as stumbling blocks;
rather, policies and guidelines are best described as stepping-stones
toward safe and enjoyable adventures.
Unit leaders should be aware of state or local
government regulations that superede Boy Scouts of America policies
and guidelines.
 Scouting Safety
Begins with Leadership
A health and safety course syllabus and video
introduce the concept of the "sandwich principle," with emphasis
on the importance of qualified supervision and discipline, and
features The Risk Zone
and Guide to Safe Scouting. Each district across the country
received a copy of this new training package. Contact
the WLACC to find out when this course is being delivered in your district.
BSA Rules and Policies
Bold type throughout the Guide to Safe Scouting denotes
BSA rules and policies.
Viewing the online Guide
The Guide to Safe Scouting is available
on the BSA National website in two formats:
- One for reading on-line - this version
is divided into chapters and includes a search engine.
- Another for reading off-line -
the entire publication is presented in a single interface to
facilitate print-out.
A bound hard-copy version
(BSA Supply #34416B) is also available. To obtain a
copy, contact the WLACC or call 1-800-323-0732
to request an Official Boy Scout Catalog.
16525 Sherman Way, C-8
Van Nuys, CA 91406
tel: (818) 785-8700
fax: (818) 901-4888
© 2005 Western Los Angeles
County Council, B.S.A. | 
