You are leaving girlscouts.org for a website opened by an external party. You will be subjected to the privacy and security policies of the website
Activities M - P
Welcome to the Activities M - P Safety Activity Checkpoints page, designed to help you prepare for your next Girl Scout adventure. To access specific guidelines and requirements, simply select your intended activity from the accordion list below. Once an activity is expanded, you will find the detailed Safety Activity Checkpoints and a downloadable PDF to ensure a safe and successful experience for your troop.
Miscellaneous Activities
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
* |
* |
* |
* |
S |
A |
No |
No |
*Some activities are limited; see below.
Check out these reminders for various activities. Don’t see the activity you’d like try? Visit the Safety Standards’ Activities That Are Not Listed section.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, emergency action plans, and more, as well as reminders about inclusion and accessibility.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for:
Arts and Crafts
From crafts made of natural materials to highly technical creations, a vast array of activities, equipment, and supplies are possible.
- Do not use hazardous chemicals.
- Follow manufacturer directions.
- Learn and teach proper techniques.
- Refer to the Tools—Hand and Power SAC for specific age-related information.
- Review the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Art and Craft Safety Guide.
- Wear personal protective equipment, such as goggles or gloves, when appropriate.
- Keep long hair tied back; do not wear dangling jewelry.
- Control environmental measures, such as ventilation, when indicated.
- Clean and store materials properly.
Land Sports
Includes soccer, basketball, flag football, softball, hockey, basketball, tennis, pickleball, and much more.
- Recruit someone with experience in the sport and in teaching youth.
- Identify safe places to play, away from traffic and other hazards.
- Source equipment according to the sport’s norms:
- Helmets and other protective equipment
- Balls, bats, racquets, etc.
- Learn the rules and techniques.
Laser Tag
This popular activity can be played indoors or out. While no projectiles are launched at other players, some families may object to the game’s warlike nature. Bring up the subject in advance and get everyone’s approval before proceeding with plans.
- Choose a location away from pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
- Follow rules set by the venue.
- Wear closed-toed, athletic shoes and comfortable clothing layered for the weather.
Segways (Powered Scooters)
For Seniors and Ambassadors only
Covering more ground than walking, Segway tours are a popular activity in tourist areas.
- Find a reputable tour guide who can teach safe Segway use.
- Use Segways designed for touring, with top speeds between 10 and 15 mph.
- Choose a route away from steep hills, uneven terrain, vehicles, and heavy pedestrian traffic, where scooter use is permitted.
- Wear a well-fitting helmet.
- Wear wrist guards
- Keep both hands on the handlebar at all times.
- Avoid using a mobile phone or wearing earphones while riding.
- Ride one person per scooter.
- Practice before you get going. You should be able to get on or off, stop smoothly, lean to turn left or right, lean forward to propel, and lean backward to reverse.
- Yield to pedestrians and be careful of others.
STEM and STEAM
Activities are broad and ever-evolving, and are not addressed individually in this resource. Consult with experts in the specific activity and ask about safety measures.
- Avoid using hazardous chemicals.
- Follow manufacturer directions for other materials.
- Learn and teach proper techniques.
- Refer to the Tools—Hand and Power SAC for specific age-related information. Make sure equipment is appropriate for the group you’re working with.
- Wear personal protective equipment, such as goggles or gloves, when appropriate.
- Keep long hair tied back; do not wear dangling jewelry.
- Control environmental measures, such as ventilation, when indicated.
- Clean and store materials properly.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Model Rocketry
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
* |
* |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
No |
*Daisies and Brownies may participate in simple science experiments, such as air-powered drinking straw, balloon, or stomp rockets, or water-powered pump rockets. They may observe fueled model rocket launches from a safe distance.
Build your own rocket using lightweight materials, then put your engineering, physics, and chemistry skills to the test by launching it with an electrifying blast! Discover the science behind liftoff and imagine where your rocket could go—the Moon, Mars, or beyond. Are you ready for liftoff?
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, emergency action plans, and more, as well as reminders about inclusion and accessibility.
Learn More
Get Educator Tips from Estes—a collection of helpful rocketry info for groups.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Rocketry and Model Rocketry
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Find an expert. While no formal qualifications are needed for low-powered model rocketry (up to 125 grams of propellant), an experienced enthusiast offers valuable tips. Connect with a sport rocketry club for launch guidance. Higher-powered rockets require a trained range safety officer.
☐ Make it girl-led. You may want to kick off with a rocket launch event to spark interest, then progress to launching rockets built by your group. Scouts must be mature enough to follow instructions and handle materials safely.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Build the right rockets for your group.
- Girl Scouts of any age can construct and launch rockets powered by balloons, water, or the chemical reaction of simple ingredients like baking soda and vinegar. Find instructions like these from Science Sparks in books or online.
- Single-engine model rocket starter kits are available in bulk quantities and are easy to assemble and launch.
- Look for “beginner level” options.
- Engines (small tubes containing stable fuel, also called motors), some additional supplies, and launch systems are generally sold separately.
- Higher-powered or multi-stage designs require experience and skill. They should be built under the supervision of an adult with experience in these models.
- Girl Scouts do not build or launch:
- Skyrockets (a form of fireworks)
- High-powered rockets (with G or more powerful engines)
- Rockets with liquid or hybrid engines
☐ Read the FAA amateur rocket regulations, including not crossing into the territory of a foreign country and not creating a hazard to persons, property, or other aircraft.
☐ Select a safe launch site.
- Consider using a site already designated by a local club.
- Get permission:
- From the property owner or municipality to launch rockets
- To recover rockets from neighboring property
- Choose a large, open area or field that is free of crowds and away from power lines, buildings, tall trees, and low-flying aircraft.
| Launch Site Dimensions | ||
|---|---|---|
| Installed Total Impulse (N-sec) | Equivalent Motor Type | Minimum Site Dimensions (ft.) |
| 0.00 - 1.25 | 1/4A, 1/2 A | 50 |
| 1.26 - 2.50 | A | 100 |
| 2.51 - 5.00 | B | 200 |
| 5.01 - 10.00 | C | 400 |
| 10.01 - 20.00 | D | 500 |
| 20.01 - 40.00 | E | 1000 |
| 40.01 - 80.00 | F | 1000 |
- Use the National Association of Rocketry (NAR) table below to determine how large the launch site should be for the engines being used:
- Set up safety zones for launch and observation (at least 15 feet away for D or smaller motors, and 30 feet away for larger motors).
- Follow Estes’ recommended launch area setup:
RECOMMENDED LAUNCH AREA SETUP DIAGRAM GOES HERE.
☐ Be clear on rocket gear. Inform families if rockets will be provided or if they need to bring their own. If bringing their own, specify that they meet these requirements:
- Model rocket has:
- Stable, aerodynamic design
- Lightweight, non-metal parts for the nose, body, and fins
- Pre-manufactured engine mount, designed to securely hold an approved model rocket engine
- Commercially made model rocket engine (motor) of appropriate size
- Launch lug to guide rocket along the launch rod recovery system
- Streamer or parachute, with fire-safe wadding, for safe retrieval
- Launch equipment has:
- Electrical ignition system with motor igniters (no fuse-lit ignition)
- Safety interlock on the ignition system
- Launch switch that automatically returns to “off”
- Launch rod, tower, or rail to guide the rocket to vertical flight (cap rod when not in use unless it’s above eye level)
- Blast deflector to prevent ground impact from exhaust
☐ Ensure safety equipment is present.
- Eye protection for each participant
- Fire extinguisher, sand, or other means of stopping a small grass fire
☐ Line up first aid.
- Ensure that at least one adult has First Aid/CPR/AED training.
- For locations more than 30 minutes from emergency medical services, recruit a Wilderness First Aider or Wilderness First Responder. Identify the closest emergency transport and facilities.
- Bring a first aid kit.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather. Postpone if winds over 20 mph are expected or if clouds are low.
☐ Check for fire hazards. Double-check that there’s no dry grass near the launch pad.
☐ Dress appropriately. Make sure all participants are wearing:
- Clothing layered for the weather, including hats or other sun protection
- Closed-toed shoes
- Hair secured
☐ Make sure participants follow safety rules.
- Follow all manufacturer and instructor directions.
- Do not put any flammable or explosive payload in or on the rocket.
- Wear eye protection when launching and as a spectator.
- Stay in designated launch safety zones.
- Ensure all observers are alert and at a safe distance before launching.
- Never launch toward people or objects, into clouds, or near airplanes.
- Always count down before launch.
- If a rocket fails to launch, disconnect the electrical system and wait 60 seconds before approaching.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Offshore Passenger Vessels
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
No |
Step aboard to embark on an exciting adventure. Discover new sights and make unforgettable memories on your choice of commercial or recreational vessels meant to carry passengers:
- Ferries
- Cruise ships
- Airboats
- Pontoon boats (on calm lakes or bays only)
- Whale watching or tour boats
- Privately owned sailboats, powerboats, or yachts
Note:
- Amphibious duck boats are not recommended due to their hybrid land-and-sea nature, lack of regulation, and the severity of accidents.
- See individual Safety Activity Checkpoints (SACs) for swimming or small craft such as canoes, kayaks, sailboats, waterski boats, etc.
- See also: Travel/Trips SACs.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, emergency action plans, and more, as well as reminders about inclusion and accessibility.
Learn More
- Find free basic boating safety courses, and where you can borrow life jackets in all 50 states, at Boat U.S. Foundation.
- Protect marine life on your whale-watching trip with National Geographic's tips for choosing an ethical operator.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Offshore Vessels
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Select a qualified operator and vessel.
- Commercial vessels:
- In the U.S., commercial vessel operators are licensed through the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).
- In the U.S., passenger vessels (ferries, cruise ships, and whale watching boats) for more than six passengers are also regulated by the USCG.
- Vessels should have professional, licensed crew members who maintain and operate the vessel as designed, and provide life jackets and other safety gear.
- Use caution outside the United States. Standards may vary. Seek expert input before booking.
- Privately owned boats; ensure that:
- USCG standards are met
- Necessary safety gear—including life jackets—is on hand for all participants
- Throwable personal flotation device (Type IV cushion, ring buoy, or equivalent) is available
- The owner/operator:
- Is an adult with training and experience for that type of watercraft, and that sufficient, experienced crew will be on hand
- Is willing to follow Girl Scout safety standards
- Maintains and operates the vessel in accordance with USCG and local regulations
- Maintains insurance and registration as required by law
- Is familiar with local waters and hazards
☐ Make plans for access. Commercial passenger vessel access is covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, but guidance continues to develop. Other vessels may be less accessible. Check with the operator to be sure everyone in your group can be included.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear. See Gear for Offshore Passenger Vessels at the end of this section. Discuss with participants and families well in advance what the operator will provide and what each person should bring themselves.
☐ Line up first aid.
- Ensure that at least one adult has First Aid/CPR/AED training.
- For locations more than 30 minutes from emergency medical services, recruit a Wilderness First Aider or Wilderness First Responder. Identify the closest emergency transport and facilities.
- Ensure a first aid kit is available.
- Be ready for motion sickness.
- Ask caregivers of those prone to motion sickness to consider administering Dramamine, Bonine, or a homeopathic remedy before the trip.
- Bring mint, ginger candies, ginger snaps, or plain crackers for queasy stomachs.
- Have seasick passengers stay on deck in fresh air if possible, with eyes on the horizon. Going below deck can worsen symptoms. The stern (back) of the boat bounces and rocks the least, but stay away from nauseating exhaust fumes.
☐ File a float plan for any trip.
- Provide a reliable adult with information about your boat(s) and the people aboard.
- This fillable Coast Guard Float Plan includes steps for your contact to take if they are concerned about your safety.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather. Consult your operator or owner; postpone or cancel if conditions are unsuitable, especially for small craft. Lightning, high winds, or high sea state (waves) impact vessel types differently.
☐ Follow state laws and operator instructions about life jackets.
- For passenger vessels like ferries or cruise ships, life jackets are worn only when instructed.
- For smaller boats, life jackets may be required on deck or on the dock.
- In most cases, life jackets should not be worn in an enclosed area, like a cabin.
☐ Evaluate and monitor conditions.
- Check the boat and conditions on arrival. Report any safety concerns.
- Be aware of carbon monoxide risks from “teak surfing” or standing near the swim platform at the stern. Never run an engine or generator while participants are swimming or near the exhaust, as deadly fumes can cause unconsciousness and death.
☐ Arrange for watchers.
- Ensure adult watchers are present for supervision, especially for scattered groups.
- Use a ratio of 1:6 for Daisies and 1:10 for older participants.
- Watchers must actively monitor participants, providing undivided attention.
- Designate a rotating “water watcher” and inform children about who is on duty. Watchers are not a substitute for lifeguards.
☐ Ensure participants learn the basics.
- Do not run near the water or on the vessel or dock.
- Listen to the safety orientation and follow the rules noted.
- Know the location of life jackets.
- Follow crew instructions in an emergency.
- Know what to do if someone falls overboard or if other accidents occur.
- Use the buddy system.
- Learn how to use the “head” (marine toilet).
- Stay away from the swim platform, ladder, or step while the engine or generator are running.
Specific Situations
Keep these considerations in mind for the following offshore passenger vessel situations.
Chartered Vessels
Chartered vessels are boats that are rented for a specific length of time, from hours to days.
- Crewed charters include a captain and crew.
- Use the guidelines above for privately owned recreational vessels.
- Confirm ahead that all crew members have had a criminal background check.
- Keep youth under adult supervision. Never allow them to be solo or in close quarters with either crew members or other adult passengers.
- Remember that captain, crew members, or other adult passengers cannot be counted for youth supervision ratios or used as extra adult chaperones.
- Bareboat charters are staffed by the group chartering.
- You must provide your own trained captain and crew.
- Since requirements for training and licensing vary based on the size and type of vessel, carefully evaluate qualifications.
- For all charters:
- Use additional care in international locations, where USCG regulations do not apply.
- Take time to understand local waters, navigation, hazards, and norms.
Cruise Ships
- Check the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program for ship inspection scores and health tips before booking a cruise.
- Reserve cabins close together, either across the hall or side by side.
- Use the buddy system at all times.
- Plan a communication strategy in case of separation, as cell service may be unreliable.
- Follow Safety Activity Checkpoints for high-risk activities like swimming, climbing walls, and snorkeling. Choose excursions carefully, as cruise ships and vendors may not follow Girl Scout safety standards—ask thorough safety questions.
- Be aware that boating laws in other countries may be less strict than those in the United States.
- Research the safety standards of your destination. If they seem inadequate, look for ways to enhance safety or avoid risky situations altogether.
- Contact your council office for guidance.
Gear for Offshore Passenger Vessels
As long as Girl Scouts are appropriately dressed, they shouldn’t need any other gear—life jackets and other safety gear are generally supplied by the vessel. Look for their recommendations in the booking communications.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Orienteering
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
* |
* |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
No |
*Daisies and Brownies may participate in beginner orienteering events when working with adults in established parks.
Use a map, a compass, and your critical thinking skills to explore a new area. Join a meet to compete with others for accuracy and speed, or simply enjoy time outdoors with your friends.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, emergency action plans, and more, as well as reminders about inclusion and accessibility.
Learn More
- Consider taking part in an orienteering meet during your travels! Check for events all over the world at World of O.
- Get to know orienteering map symbols and how terrain changes are marked.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Orienteering
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Note: These checkpoints cover organized or competitive orienteering, where a director provides a map and places markers or waypoints (“controls”) along a set course. They do not cover wilderness navigation, where participants use their own map, compass, or GPS to find their way.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Find a safe place to go orienteering.
- Check for local orienteering clubs hosting nearby events. Most offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses at the same time. Or find a permanent or “DIY” course you can try anytime.
- Never go orienteering when and where hunting is allowed.
☐ Learn to go orienteering.
- No formal certification is required for orienteering, but reviewing tutorials on the Orienteering USA website can help you decide if the activity is right for your group—and help you feel ready.
- Clubs also offer brief, on-site how-to clinics.
☐ Make plans for access. Adaptive orienteering, known as TrailO, is available at some meets and international competitions. Ask your local club for recommendations on accessible opportunities.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear. See Gear for Orienteering at the end of this section. Discuss with participants and families well in advance what the group leader will provide and what each person should bring themselves.
☐ Line up first aid.
- Ensure that at least one adult has First Aid/CPR/AED training.
- For locations more than 30 minutes from emergency medical services, recruit a Wilderness First Aider or Wilderness First Responder. Identify the closest emergency transport and facilities.
- Bring a first aid kit.
Day of the Activity
☐ Dress appropriately. Make sure all participants are wearing:
- Sneakers or hiking boots
- Layered clothing suitable for the weather
- Long pants and sleeves to protect against foliage and sun (with pants tucked into socks to protect against ticks)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses)
☐ Check in—and out. Always report to the finish line, even if you’re not finishing a course. Meet organizers use the participant roster to ensure no one is lost.
☐ Make sure all participants learn the basics.
- Understand the boundaries of the meet and be aware of course limits to avoid going too far.
- Use the buddy system. Cadettes and older can compete independently in established parks once they have experience.
- Be cautious where you step—watch for traffic, bodies of water, urban buildings, and uneven or steep terrain.
- Avoid reaching into unknown areas, including nooks, crannies, or dense vegetation.
- Watch out for sharp objects, insects, snakes, and poisonous plants.
- Follow orienteering etiquette:
- Avoid tramping vegetation.
- Do not climb walls or fences.
- Do not damage property.
- If participating as a group (if permitted), stay together.
- Yield to faster runners and other trail users.
- Pick up trash when possible.
☐ Make it girl-led. Start with a “white” course, designed for absolute beginners. Girl Scouts may want to progress to “yellow” and “orange” on the same day, or return to a future meet for more beginner experiences.
Gear for Orienteering
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a successful outing.
Essential equipment
- An orienteering compass* (with a round housing and clear, flat plate) for every participant
- E-punch device,* used for some organized courses
- Map**
- Whistle for emergencies*
- Reusable water bottle and snack in a daypack
*Often available to borrow or rent at meets; check with organizers in advance.
**Provided by organizers if participating competitively in a meet.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Outdoor Cooking and Firebuilding
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
Yes |
Enjoy a tasty snack, try your hand at outdoor cooking, or have fun experimenting with cool cooking techniques—the choice is yours! Everything tastes better when it’s cooked outside!
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, emergency action plans, and more, as well as reminders about inclusion and accessibility.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Outdoor Cooking
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Make it girl-led. Get group input on what and how to cook outdoors. Especially for younger participants, keep it simple by trying one or two cooking methods during a cookout or campout, allowing adults to focus on safety while young cooks develop skills.
☐ Recruit an adult with appropriate training or experience. No certification is required for outdoor cooking, but your council may have guidelines or a class on fire building or propane use. Follow their instructions. Make sure someone in your group:
- Knows safe food storage, outdoor dishwashing, and sanitation techniques
- Has experience with cooking methods to be used
- Has experience managing and extinguishing wood and charcoal fires
- Has experience teaching youth skills, such as safe cutting techniques
☐ Ask about allergies early. Find out if any participants have allergies, which foods to avoid, and what to do in case of accidental exposure. If allergies are severe, avoid those foods entirely.
☐ Find a safe space for outdoor cooking. Look for community parks and campsites with designated fire pits or grills. Find out about any fire restrictions and if permits are required.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear. See Gear for Outdoor Cooking at the end of this section. Discuss with participants and families well in advance what the group leader will provide and what each person should bring themselves.
☐ Test critical gear before leaving.
- Set up, start, and operate any stoves or essential equipment, whether they’re new, borrowed, or have been stored for a while.
- Ensure you have everything you need—and the know-how—to safely teach participants.
☐ Plan ahead for safe food handling.
- Plan sufficient ice or cold packs to keep food below 40°F. Consider freezing some foods, especially those to be used at the end of a campout.
- Use shelf-stable foods (canned, bottled, or dehydrated) for extended trips.
☐ Line up first aid.
- Ensure that at least one adult has First Aid/CPR/AED training.
- For locations more than 30 minutes from emergency medical services, recruit a Wilderness First Aider or Wilderness First Responder. Identify the closest emergency transport and facilities.
- Bring a first aid kit.
☐ Check for fire restrictions. If weather conditions do not permit open flames, adjust your plans accordingly.
Day of the Activity
☐ Set up for safety.
- In a primitive campsite, set up at least 200 feet from all water sources, avoiding fragile areas of plant growth (particularly mountain meadows) and areas of wet soil.
- Double-check fire restrictions to see if anything has changed since the planning phase.
- Obtain firewood from local sources to avoid bringing pests and diseases from another location. Where wood gathering is allowed, use only dead, fallen wood.
- Arrange secure food storage, away from tents and out of reach of animals. Check with authorities to see if a bear canister is required.
☐ Dress appropriately. Make sure all participants are wearing:
- Closed-toed shoes
- Layered clothing suitable for the weather (with long sleeves rolled back)
- Hair, clothing, or jewelry that could get in the food or fire is secured
- No plastic garments, such as disposable ponchos, around flames
☐ Practice food and water safety.
- Use safe water. Giardia lamblia, a parasite often found in backwoods water sources like streams, can cause diarrhea and other symptoms. It is difficult to treat. To avoid problems:
- Bring enough potable water to last until you can treat water on site.
- Always use clean, potable water for drinking and preparing food.
- Check with authorities. If the water supply is untested or not potable, treat it. Strain water through a clean cloth to remove sediment. Then use one of these methods:
- Boil water rapidly for one minute. Above 6,500 feet in elevation, boil for three minutes.
- Disinfect using water-purification tablets or solution that eliminates Giardia lamblia. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, including contact time.
- Use a water purifier or filtration device designed to remove Giardia lamblia.
- Treat with UV. Ultraviolet light devices kill most bacteria and viruses. Follow manufacturer directions.
- Avoid spreading germs. Review safe sanitary principles with all participants:
- Wash hands frequently, especially after using the restroom or handling raw meat.
- Do not share cups, water bottles, or other dishes.
- Do not allow anyone who is sick to prepare food.
- Keep food in the cooler, with the lid shut, until it’s time to use it.
- Keep utensils and surfaces clean; items that have touched raw meat should be removed from the area until sanitized.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
- Do not use cracked or chipped cups and plates; they harbor bacteria.
- Allow leftovers to cool to ambient temperature, then immediately refrigerate or place in a cooler with ice. Discard leftovers you can’t properly store.
- Wash dishes thoroughly. Use an approved method, such as the three-bucket method demonstrated by Girl Scouts of Utah. Teach participants these steps:
- Remove food particles from dishes and utensils; discard them into a trash container.
- Wash dishes in warm, soapy water, replacing the water when it gets dirty.
- Rinse dishes in hot, clear water.
- Sanitize dishes by putting them in a dunk bag. Then dip in clear, scalding water, or immerse in a chemical sanitizing solution (chlorine bleach or other sanitizer), following manufacturer directions. Soak for two minutes.
- Allow dishes to air dry. Hang up dunk bags or let dishes dry on a rack or a flat, clean surface. Do not use towels to dry, as they can recontaminate dishes.
☐ Cook safely.
- Practice safe cooking over fire.
- Store wood away from the fire area.
- Build fires in designated areas and avoid creating new fire sites. An established site should be clear of overhanging branches, steep slopes, stumps, logs, dry grass, pine needles, leaves, and any other burnable material.
- Have a bucket or other fire extinguishing method close by.
- Keep cooking fires small.
- Watch for flying sparks and put them out immediately.
- If using charcoal, avoid using fire-starting fluid. Use fire starters instead. Never add lighter fluid to a fire once it has started.
- If using a camp stove, follow stove manufacturers’ directions.
- Use recommended fuel canisters.
- Avoid overheating fuel tanks. Keep extra fuel away from heat and out of direct sunlight or enclosed areas where the temperature is high. Do not dispose of pressurized cans in a fire.
- If fuel should spill, relocate the stove before lighting it.
- Keep stove parts clean.
- Place stoves on stable, level surfaces, away from wind and foot traffic.
- Do not pile rocks or other items around the stove for stability.
- Avoid overloading stoves with heavy pots.
- Never cook inside a tent!
☐ Closely supervise cooking and encourage all Girl Scouts to participate. Use good judgment to match activities to your group’s readiness, building skills progressively, such as:
- Measuring, adding, and stirring ingredients
- Roasting marshmallows or hot dogs over a fire built by an adult
- Chopping soft foods like bananas, then moving to harder foods like carrots
- Lighting and cooking on a portable stove
- Building, tending, and extinguishing a wood cooking fire
☐ Use care with novelty cooking methods. Alternative techniques, like solar cooking, can heat food even if the equipment doesn’t feel hot. Use insulated gloves when handling.
☐ Extinguish all fires completely.
- Ask authorities for the preferred method in the area.
- Never douse a fire by pouring water over it; this can result in severe steam burns.
- Use the “sprinkle and stir” method: sprinkle the fire with water or smother it with earth or sand, stirring with a shovel, rake, or stick, and then smother again.
- Hold a hand a few inches over coals, ashes, partially burned wood, or charcoal for one minute to verify coolness.
- Follow authorities’ instructions for disposing of cold ashes and partially burned wood or charcoal. Never leave ashes or partially burned items near buildings or on wooden decks, and avoid placing them in plastic buckets.
☐ Handle wastewater and garbage appropriately.
- Find out how to handle gray water (such as dirty dishwater), garbage, and sanitary supplies.
- Keep trash away from tents.
- If no garbage pickup is available, take it with you when you leave.
Gear for Outdoor Cooking
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for safe, successful outdoor cooking.
Group gear and supplies for planned recipes
Girl Scouts NorCal has a menu planning resource that may be useful. Gather items based on the cooking methods you’ll use. Involve the group in creating the list. If a potluck approach is used, inform participants in advance. Don’t forget to list:
- Food, including spices, condiments, and other basics
- Stove with fuel and/or firewood, matches, or lighter
- Fire control items, such as a bucket and shovel
- Ice chest
- Mixing or serving bowls
- Knives and cutting boards
- Pots and pans, plus hot pads for handling
- Utensils, including a can opener (if needed) and items to stir, flip, and serve with
- Dishwashing supplies
Additional cooking-related gear
- Potable water and/or treatment supplies, if needed for your site
- Handwashing supplies
- Mess kit for each person. Specify the type needed:
- Plate, bowl, cup, and personal utensils, or cookset-style mess kit with personal pans that lock compactly together, plus eating utensils
- Dunk bag for each person. Use mesh lingerie bags with a string to tie to a dunk line (like a clothesline) for drying. Air drying is essential for sanitation.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Packrafting
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
* |
** |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
*Brownies may paddle only on flat water and must stay within swimming distance of shore.
**Juniors may paddle only on flat water within swimming distance of shore, or on sections of river rated Class I.
Packrafting is your ticket to adventure! These lightweight, portable boats let you reach remote backcountry waters with ease. Whether you’re gliding on a calm lake or tackling whitewater rapids, packrafts offer new possibilities for exploration and fun.
Note: The term “packraft” refers to the raft’s portability, not what is packed inside.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, emergency action plans, and more, as well as reminders about inclusion and accessibility.
Learn More
- Urge all participants to take ACA’s free online paddlesports safety course.
- Match skill levels with river conditions by understanding the American version of the International Scale of River Difficulty.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Packrafting
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Find a safe place to packraft.
- Nearly any body of water is suitable for packrafting with the right instruction, equipment, and experience. Start on flat water with little to no current. Progress to more advanced conditions, such as whitewater or surf.
- Paddling.com and American Whitewater offer interactive maps of paddling locations.
- Packrafting is not permitted in whitewater above Class III.
☐ Identify an expert.
- Arrange for instruction by an adult with experience teaching and supervising packrafting for the ages involved.
- Engage a certified instructor with training suited to your location and conditions. Consider the following qualifications:
- American Canoe Association (ACA)—various certification levels
- Girl Scouts Small Craft Safety Course (with kayak module and familiarity with packrafting equipment)
- American Red Cross Lifeguarding with Waterfront Module (for flat water, near shore only)
- Documented experience per your council’s guidelines
- Maintain proper instructor–student ratio, per the instructor’s certification, with a maximum of five learners per instructor. An ACA instructor with a qualified assistant may supervise up to ten learners.
- Ensure instructors have firsthand knowledge of the hazards and conditions at the packrafting location.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
- Review Gear for Packrafting at the end of this section.
- Ask your instructor or outfitter what items are provided.
- Communicate early with participants and families about what the group leader or outfitter will supply and what individuals need to bring.
☐ Line up first aid.
- Ensure that at least one adult has First Aid/CPR/AED training.
- For locations more than 30 minutes from emergency medical services, recruit a Wilderness First Aider or Wilderness First Responder. Identify the nearest emergency transport and facilities.
- Bring a first aid kit in a waterproof container.
☐ Assess swimming ability. Strong swimming skills are important for paddlers’ safety and confidence. A swim assessment is highly recommended to evaluate participant readiness.
- Advance swim assessments are recommended to avoid disappointment.
- Same-day assessments may be conducted if necessary.
- If swim assessments are not feasible, assume all participants are non-swimmers.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Consult your instructor; postpone or cancel if conditions are unsuitable for your group’s skill level.
- Never paddle during a storm.
- Monitor river or wave conditions, as they change daily. Use local resources for live updates on rivers.
☐ Check boats for condition. Ensure air chambers are functioning and secure.
☐ Inspect the area upon arrival.
- Point out and avoid hazards such as strainers, sieves, hydraulics, waterfalls, bridges, dams, fences, and low power lines.
- Surf zones, rapids, and standing waves must be avoided unless part of a planned whitewater experience.
☐ Instructors or lifeguards must be well-positioned for supervision.
- Supervision from shore is only allowed on flat water near shore.
- Instructors must accompany the group if paddling away from shore or on moving rivers.
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Proper body position and balance
- Packraft entry, launching, and landing techniques
- Propelling and steering the packraft with effective strokes
- Maneuvering through waves and wakes
- Self-rescue techniques in case of capsize
Signaling for help
☐ Consider special conditions.
- Before paddling with decked packrafts, paddlers must learn and successfully practice “wet exits” (escaping the boat if upside down). Practice with spray skirts, if used.
- In surf, learn and practice navigating around the break, as well as recognizing and managing rip currents.
- In whitewater kayaking, learn and practice how to read and manage rapids and how to float through if separated from the kayak.
- Understand and follow any site-specific instructions.
☐ Follow kayaking right-of-way rules when packrafting.
- Yield to swimmers and less maneuverable watercraft.
- Expect powered watercraft and sailboats to yield, but stay alert and paddle defensively to prevent accidents.
- Stay clear of large vessels (motorboats, ships, ferries) that cannot easily change course.
- Ask your instructor to demonstrate other right-of-way rules.
- Be aware of others in surf zones or whitewater.
- Control your boat to prevent collisions.
☐ Prepare for emergencies.
- Discuss emergency action plans with your instructor.
- Know who to contact and how to call for help.
- Be aware of your location to communicate effectively with authorities.
Packrafting Trips: Additional Considerations
Packrafting trips are longer day or overnight excursions. Plan trips only after progressive skill-building experiences. Follow these additional tips for a safe and satisfying experience.
☐ Ensure basic skills. Make sure that participants:
- Have the skill and stamina to finish the trip, even if headwinds or other challenges arise
- Learn how to cross busy channels, if necessary (generally, by crossing at a 90-degree angle to channel traffic)
- Learn universal signals
☐ File a float plan for any trip.
- Provide a reliable adult with information about your boat(s) and the people aboard.
- This fillable Coast Guard Float Plan includes steps for your contact to take if they are concerned about your safety.
☐ Use a professional guide with the additional training needed for the trip type. Guiding on river, whitewater, coastal, touring, and open water (ocean) trips are advanced certifications.
☐ See the additional gear needed for trips under Gear for Packrafting. Consult your guide about what else may be needed.
☐ Do not exceed capacity or overload boats with gear.
☐ Keep boats close enough together so that a group decision can be made if wind or water conditions change.
☐ Be aware of possible changes in water level due to tides or dam releases, and how these may impact your route.
Gear for Packrafting
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a successful packraft outing.
Individual and group essentials
Essential equipment
- Packraft suited to participants’ skill level and water conditions
- Beginner or intermediate: bucket or self-bailing hull
- Advanced: decked packraft with spray skirt, built for surf or whitewater
- Properly sized, double-bladed paddle
- Bailing scoop or sponge to remove water from hull (not needed for self-bailing boats)
Safety gear
- Coast Guard–approved life jackets, properly sized and fitted for each person (required)
- Rescue whistle
- Throwable personal flotation device (Type IV cushion, ring buoy, or equivalent) available for each group on the water
- Tow line, throw bag, and/or other rescue gear (carried by the instructor)
- Helmets (required in Class II or higher rapids, or if going in or near sea caves)
- Hull repair kit and air pump
- Paddling at night requires additional gear; contact your outfitter.
Clothing and footwear
- Layered, non-cotton clothing; rash guards and board shorts are ideal.
- Water shoes, neoprene booties, or non-slip sport sandals with a heel strap (no flip-flops)
- Wetsuit or neoprene top and shorts if the water temperature is below 65°F
- Paddling gloves for comfort and grip
Gear for trips
For trips, critical gear should be secured in or to the boat. Consult your expert about what to bring in addition to the gear listed above. They may recommend items such as:
- Navigation items, such as GPS or compass
- Communication equipment, such as two-way, satellite, or weather/VHF radios
- Dry bags (and a way to secure them) to carry food, extra clothing, first aid kit, etc.
- Tool/repair kit: duct tape, tools, spare plugs, etc.
- Spare paddle(s)
- Emergency equipment, such as signaling mirror, tarp, space blanket, extra clothing and food, matches, flashlight, etc.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Parades and Other Large Gatherings
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
Be part of the celebration! Parades are all about energy, excitement, and community spirit. March or dance along the route, or ride on a float—it’s your chance to shine and make memories!
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, emergency action plans, and more, as well as reminders about inclusion and accessibility.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Parades and Other Large Gatherings
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Check event organizers’ plans. Organizers of any large gathering should:
- Provide sufficient restroom facilities
- Provide water stations
- Provide police or other security protection
- Arrange for lighting at evening or indoor events
- Observe fire safety protocols, including having sufficient exits if indoors
- Allow only licensed food preparation
- Have written safety and emergency management plans
☐ Additionally, parade organizers should:
- Lay out a clear route without cross traffic
- Communicate guidelines about parade vehicles and floats
- Set minimum ages and qualifications for drivers of vehicles and floats
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Plan floats safely. Floats drawn by trucks and automobiles must be:
- Constructed with safe, nontoxic, flame-retardant materials
- Secured to the body of the vehicle or trailer
- Equipped with ABC fire extinguisher(s)
- Driven by a licensed driver, at least 21 years old, approved by your council
- Covered by automobile insurance
- Secured with an appropriate trailer coupling and safety chain
☐ Plan drop-off and pickup.
- Identify the starting and ending meeting spots for one-way parade routes and communicate them to families in advance. Choose locations away from traffic
- Arrange for participants to be dropped off at the start and picked up at the end.
☐ Line up first aid.
- Ensure that at least one adult has First Aid/CPR/AED training.
- Bring a first aid kit.
Day of the Activity
☐ Dress appropriately. Make sure all participants are wearing:
- For parades: Girl Scout uniform or pin, or parade costume that is easy to walk in, with good visibility; layer clothing for the weather.
- Sneakers or other walking shoes
- No name tags or other identifying information
- Sun protection, if appropriate
☐ Riders on floats or vehicles must:
- Remain seated, or have a secure handhold or safety harness if standing
- Have ample room, with sufficient space for all riders
- Keep arms and legs inside; no dangling or leaning out
- Not distribute candy or other items to onlookers
- Have an adult on the float with them
☐ Walkers in parades must:
- Stay away from vehicles, floats, and animals
- Have an adult walking with them
☐ Make sure all participants:
- Know what to do in an emergency or if separated from the group
- Know not to take candy or other items from floats or vehicles
- Carry a refillable water bottle
Gear for Parades and Other Large Gatherings
As long as Girl Scouts are appropriately dressed, they shouldn’t need any other gear. Check with organizers for recommendations. Otherwise, just show up and have fun!
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Pocket Knife and Jackknife Safety
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
* |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
No |
*Daisies may learn basic knife safety with cardboard/wood models.
Make the most of this iconic, versatile tool by learning safe and effective techniques. Take the Girl Scout Pocket Knife/Jackknife Safety Pledge to show your commitment to safety.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, emergency action plans, and more, as well as reminders about inclusion and accessibility.
Learn More
- Gather some tips on teaching kids knife safety at Montana Knife Company’s blog.
- Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania has a Knife Safety badge with instructions—plus a template for a cardboard knife to practice with.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Pocket Knives and Jackknives
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Decision-Making Phase
Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, emergency action plans, and more, as well as reminders about inclusion and accessibility.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Pocket Knives and Jackknives
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Assess readiness and interest.
- Knife users must be mature enough to listen, follow directions, and hold responsibility.
- Start with a fixed blade, such as a butter or table knife, to assess whether your Girl Scouts can follow the safety rules needed for sharper folding knives.
☐ Confirm caregiver agreement. Ensure that parents/caregivers are ready, too. Come to an agreement on when and where pocket knives can be stored and used.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Get ready to teach!
- Build your confidence before teaching, if needed, by finding a training plan. Check if your council offers a knife skills class or ask an experienced instructor for help.
- Plan for a quiet space to teach in groups of two or three, or set up one-on-one learning sessions with an adult to supervise each learner.
☐ Be clear on gear. Inform families whether knives will be provided or if they should bring their own. If bringing their own, specify acceptable types:
- Allowed: Folding pocket knives or jackknives
- Not allowed: Switchblades, butterfly knives, or automatic-opening blades
- Fit matters: Handle comfortably fits the user’s palm
- Avoid: Large multi-tools/utility knives or tiny keychain knives, for beginners
☐ Line up first aid.
- Ensure that at least one adult has First Aid/CPR/AED training.
- For locations more than 30 minutes from emergency medical services, recruit a Wilderness First Aider or Wilderness First Responder. Identify the closest emergency transport and facilities.
- Ensure a first aid kit is available.
Day of the Activity
☐ Dress appropriately. Make sure all participants are wearing:
- Closed-toed shoes
- Hair tied back
☐ Make sure all participants learn the basics. You can break skills into several sessions. Be sure to cover:
- Safety first: Set up an “arc” or “circle of safety”
- Handling: Open, close, and carry a knife safely
- Practical use: Cut food, whittle, and more
- Passing a knife: Transfer it safely to others
- Maintenance: Clean, sharpen, and store knives properly
- Pledge: You can use the sample below or develop/use your own safety promise.
Gear for Pocket Knives/Jackknives
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for safe pocket knife/jackknife handling, practice, and maintenance.
Essential equipment
- Folding knife that fits the user’s hand
- Soft cloth for cleaning
- Optional items (can be introduced as skills progress)
- Practice material: Soap, balsa wood, or similar
- Maintenance: Sharpening stone and honing oil
Girl Scout Pocket Knife/Jackknife Safety Pledge
Make it girl-led. Encourage your group to review and customize these rules. You may wish to transfer the final text to small cards to be carried with the knives to remind Girl Scouts of their agreements to be safe.
Girl Scout Pocket Knife/Jackknife Safety Pledge
Carrying a knife is both an honor and a responsibility. I have completed a workshop on pocket knife/jackknife handling and safety. For my safety and that of others, I agree to these guidelines.
I will always:
- Respect my pocket knife/jackknife and use it as a tool
- Keep my pocket knife/jackknife closed and safely stored when not in use
- Use my pocket knife/jackknife only when it is safe for everyone around me
- Never throw or toss my pocket knife/jackknife
- Use my pocket knife/jackknife safely and as I was taught
Date: ___________________
Girl Scout name/signature: ______________________________________
Responsible adult name/signature: ________________________________
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
© Copyright 2009–2026 Girl Scouts of the United States of America. All rights reserved. All information and material contained in Girl Scouts’ Volunteer Essentials guide (“Material”) is provided by Girl Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA) and is intended to be educational material solely to be used by Girl Scout volunteers and council staff. Reproduction, distribution, compiling, or creating derivative works of any portion of the Material or any use other than noncommercial uses as permitted by copyright law is prohibited, unless explicit, prior authorization by GSUSA in writing was granted. GSUSA reserves its exclusive right in its sole discretion to alter, limit, or discontinue the Material at any time without notice.
