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Activities Q - T
Welcome to the Activities Q - T 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.
Recreational Tree Climbing
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
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|
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
Yes |
Experience nature up close while challenging yourself and gaining a unique perspective on the environment. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a peaceful escape, tree climbing offers an unforgettable adventure.
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 Recreational Tree Climbing
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Note: Recreational tree climbing does not mean scrambling up trees in a park or yard. The recreational activity evolved from professional arborists’ need to care for trees and involves elements of rock climbing. The Safety Activity Checkpoints (SACs) here apply to organized, facilitated experiences that are highly protective of the trees.
Tree climbs and canopy tours can be part of a challenge course, or can feature other included activities. See SACs for these related elements:
- Challenge Courses
- Climbing, Bouldering, and Rappelling (including artificial climbing walls)
- Slacklines—now listed in Challenge Courses as a low element
- Zip Lining
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Find a safe place to go tree climbing.
- While some tree-climbing locations are permanent, most are set up temporarily.
- The Global Organization of Tree Climbers maintains an interactive map of facilitators and instructors to engage. Ask for advice on climbing options nearby.
- Tree Climbing Planet offers instructor training, events, and excursions.
- Treetop Explorer hosts open climbs in limited locations.
- Obtain permission or permits for the site.
☐ Identify a qualified facilitator/instructor.
- Ensure the instructor’s training aligns with the conditions found in the chosen setting.
- Climbing over 6 feet requires an instructor trained and certified by a verified agency, demonstrating competence in:
- Equipment maintenance
- Safety and rescue techniques
- Proper setup
- Hands-on training
- Practices to protect trees
- Teaching and facilitation experience with the age group
- Recognized certifications include:
- Global Organization of Tree Climbers (GOTC) Tree-Climbing Facilitator
- Tree Climbing Planet Facilitator
- Documented experience per council guidelines
- Maintain instructor–participant ratios specified by the facilitators’ certification, with a maximum of six participants per instructor for high elements. A minimum of two trained facilitators must be present.
- Confirm that the facilitator has firsthand knowledge of hazards, conditions, and emergency action plans for the area.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
- Review Gear for Recreational Tree Climbing at the end of this section.
- Ask your facilitator 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 closest emergency transport and facilities.
- Ensure that a first aid kit will be on hand.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Consult your facilitator; postpone or cancel if conditions are unsuitable for the group’s skill level.
- Review procedures for sudden storms.
- Never climb when lightning threatens.
- Stop the activity if precipitation or cold weather reduces traction or grip.
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Proper fitting of helmets, harnesses, and gear
- Muscle warming and stretching before activities
- Readiness and action commands for climbing, spotting, and belaying
- Safe spotting techniques for group activities
- Objectives and safety reminders
- Off-limits areas
☐ Confirm facilitator safety checks. Checks may include:
- Climbing the route to inspect equipment and tree(s) before each use
- Maintaining a use log for gear subject to wear, stress, or deterioration
- Supervising helmet and harness fit for each participant
- Overseeing all tie-ins, belays, and climbs
Gear for Recreational Tree Climbing
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe, successful climbing experience.
Essential equipment
- Harness, properly fitted and sized for the user
- Belay devices and other hardware, as needed for the setting
- Ropes, webbing, and other essential gear specific to the setting
Safety gear
- Helmet, properly fitted—climbers, belayers, and those in the “fall zone” must wear helmets.
- Rescue equipment must be available for use by the facilitator in an emergency.
Clothing and footwear
- Sturdy, closed-toed shoes
- Layered clothing to adjust for weather
- Hair, clothing, or jewelry secured if it could be caught in equipment
- Long pants or athletic leggings to protect against abrasions
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Rowboats / Rowing
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
* |
** |
** |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
*Daisies may go rowing only on flat water with an experienced adult in each rowboat.
** Brownies and Juniors may use rowboats; only Cadettes and older may use sculls or shells.
Row your way to adventure! Whether gliding across a peaceful lake, powering through open water, or racing to the finish line, every stroke brings rhythm, strength, and a deeper connection to the water.
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
- Visit a local college or university crew team to see training in action and learn about women’s rowing.
- Check out Olympic rowing.
- Get to know rowboat terms, history, and equipment at Christine DeMerchant’s vast web page.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Rowing
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Note: This guidance does not include information about whitewater rowing or rowing trips.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Find a safe place to go rowing.
- Row on flat water with little to no current; possibilities may include a lake, calm river, bay, or pond. Oceans and moving rivers can be used if rowers have advanced instruction and skills.
- Check with local rowing clubs for lessons or suggested locations.
☐ Identify an expert.
- Arrange for instruction by an adult with experience teaching and supervising rowing for the ages involved.
- Engage a certified instructor with training suited to your location and conditions. Consider the following qualifications:
- USRowing coaching certification—various levels
- Girl Scouts Small Craft Safety Course
- 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.
- Ensure instructors have firsthand knowledge of the hazards and conditions at the rowing location.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
- Review Gear for Rowing 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 closest emergency transport and facilities.
- Bring a first aid kit in a waterproof container.
☐ Assess swimming ability. Strong swimming skills are important for rowers’ safety and confidence. A swim assessment is highly recommended to evaluate participant readiness.
- Advance swim assessment is recommended to avoid disappointment.
- Same-day assessments may be conducted if necessary.
- If a swim assessment is not feasible, assume all participants are non-swimmers.
- Competitive rowers (sculls and shells) must be strong 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.
- Check tides and dam releases.
☐ Inspect the area upon arrival. Point out and avoid hazards such as strainers, sieves, hydraulics, waterfalls, bridges, dams, fences, and low power lines.
☐ Check boats and equipment for general condition. Make sure any plugs are intact.
☐ 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 rowing away from shore.
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Proper body position and balance
- Launching, entering the rowboat, and landing techniques
- Using the oars to propel and steer with effective strokes
- Maneuvering through waves and wakes
- Staying with the boat in case of capsize
- Signaling for help
- Any site-specific instructions
☐ Follow rowing right-of-way rules.
- Yield to swimmers and less maneuverable watercraft.
- Expect powered watercraft and sailboats to yield, but stay alert and row defensively to prevent accidents.
- Stay clear of large vessels (motorboats, ships, ferries) that cannot easily change course. If a busy channel cannot be avoided, cross at a 90-degree angle.
- Ask your instructor to demonstrate other right-of-way rules.
- 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.
Rowing Boat Trips
Since rowing boat trips are uncommon, they are not covered in these checkpoints. Consult a qualified expert and obtain council approval before planning a trip.
Gear for Rowing
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe, successful rowing experience.
Essential equipment
- Rowing boat suited to participants’ skill level and water conditions
- Beginner or intermediate: stable boats like dories, skiffs, dinghies, etc.
- Advanced: racing scull or shell
- Do not exceed manufacturer capacity for weight and/or passengers.
- Oars and oarlocks (pivot points for the oars, positioned on the boat’s gunwales)
- Seat: fixed for rowboats, sliding for sculls or shells
- Outrigger: for racing shells
- Bailing scoop or sponge, to remove water from the hull
Safety gear
- Coast Guard–approved life jackets, properly sized and fitted for each person (required)
- Exception for competitive racing (sculls and shells): Life jackets may be carried in a nearby chase boat to prevent rowers’ entanglement with oars.
- 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)
- Rowing at night requires additional gear; contact your outfitter.
Clothing and footwear
- Layered, non-cotton clothing (rash guards and board shorts are ideal for rowing boats)
- Water shoes, neoprene booties, or non-slip sport sandals with a heel strap (no flip-flops)
- Paddling gloves for comfort and grip
- Ask the coach about what to wear for a shell or scull.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Sailing
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
|
* |
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
*Sailing for individual Brownies is allowed with a careful evaluation of maturity and decision-making skills.
Harness the wind to power an adventure afloat! Sailboats of all sizes let you build solo skills or work as a team, whether seeking a peaceful escape or an exciting challenge.
Learn More
Head over to Animated Knots to tie up your knot-tying skills!
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.
This SAC offers guidelines for small sailboats operated by participants. For large sailboats with a qualified captain, refer to the SAC for Offshore Passenger Vessels.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Sailing
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 sail.
- Contact local yacht club youth sailing programs, municipal rental sites, and university sailing programs that provide community sailing lessons. US Sailing maintains a dynamic “Where to Sail” directory that includes adaptive programs.
- Beginners should start on flat water with little current, in light to moderate wind.
- Stay clear of areas with low power lines.
☐ Identify an expert/instructor.
- Arrange for instruction by an adult with experience teaching and supervising sailing for the ages involved.
- Engage a certified instructor with training suited to your location and conditions. Consider the following qualifications:
- US Sailing certification
- Girl Scouts Small Craft Safety Course
- American Red Cross Lifeguarding with Waterfront Module (for flat water, near shore only)
- Documented experience per your council’s guidelines
- Operators of any safety (rescue) boats must also be appropriately trained.
- Follow the instructor–student ratios for which your instructor is qualified. Ratios vary based on the ages of students, whether an assistant coach or instructor is on hand, and the type of boat(s) to be used. When uncertain, follow a ratio of 1:4 (1:3 if under eight years).
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear. See Gear for Sailing at the end of this section. Discuss with participants and families well in advance what the group leader or sailing center will provide and what each person should bring themselves.
☐ Evaluate swimming ability. Confidence in the water is key to sailing success. Sailors should be competent swimmers, and a swim assessment is highly recommended.
- Advance swim assessment is recommended to avoid disappointment.
- Same-day assessments may be conducted if necessary.
- If not feasible, assume all participants are non-swimmers.
☐ 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 in a waterproof container.
☐ 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 instructor and postpone or cancel if weather is not favorable.
- Monitor for wind speed and gusts.
- Monitor sea state (waves and swells).
- Never sail when thunderstorms are predicted.
- Use caution when currents or tidal action are present.
☐ Inspect the area upon arrival.
- Point out and avoid hazards such as bridges, dams, fences, reefs, and low power lines.
- Surf zones and areas of heavy waves must be avoided.
☐ Check equipment.
- Ensure safety gear, boats, sails, and hardware appear to be in good repair.
- Report any concerns to the vendor or instructor.
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Parts of the boat and how they function
- Proper body position, including how to avoid the boom
- Launching and landing techniques
- Points of sail: catching the wind, tacking, and jibing
- Maneuvering through waves and wakes
- Capsize recovery, person overboard, and rescue procedures
- Staying with the boat if unable to recover from a capsize
- How to signal for help
- For boats with engines: Never linger near the engine exhaust discharge while the engine in running. Carbon monoxide can collect in the area and cause death.
☐ Follow sailing right-of-way rules.
- Yield to human-powered watercraft (kayaks, canoes) and swimmers.
- Expect powered watercraft and kiteboarders to yield, but stay alert and sail defensively to prevent accidents.
- Stay clear of large vessels (ferries, ships) that cannot maneuver easily.
- Ask your instructor to explain additional right-of-way rules.
☐ 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.
Gear for Sailing
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe, successful sailing experience.
Individual and group essentials
Essential equipment
- Suitable sailboat(s) for the participants’ skill level and water conditions, including sails and rigging. Boats must meet USCG and local regulations. Never exceed a boat’s capacity for weight or passengers.
Safety gear
- Coast Guard–approved life jacket, properly sized and fitted for each person
- Rescue whistle for each person
- Throwable personal flotation device (Type IV cushion, ring buoy, or equivalent) available for each group on the water
- Emergency sound device, such as an air horn or whistle
- Bailer (bucket or scoop to remove water from a boat)
- Paddle (backup means of propulsion)
- Safety boat(s), if used; instructors use safety (rescue) boats when teaching dinghy sailing.
Clothing and footwear
- Layered, non-cotton clothing
- Non-slip boat shoes, non-slip sport sandals with a heel strap, water socks, or neoprene booties (no flip-flops)
- Wetsuit, if the water temperature is below 65°F, for “wet” boats
- Hair, clothing, or jewelry secured if it could be caught in equipment
- Sailing gloves
Gear for trips
In addition to the above gear, which is primarily for short sails on small boats, ask your instructor about items to bring for a sailing trip. They may recommend items such as:
- First aid kit in a waterproof container
- Emergency repair kit with tools, duct tape, extra line, spare hardware, etc.
- Rigging knife
- Emergency survival items
- Refer to the SAC for Offshore Passenger Vessels as needed.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
SCUBA Diving
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
|
|
|
* |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
*Girl Scouts must be at least 12 years of age for SCUBA certification.
Experience a sense of weightlessness and become a visitor in a new, underwater world. See shipwrecks, coral colonies, and geological formations, and meet creatures you never knew existed!
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
Learn Dive Speak: Learn terms, phrases, and slang for SCUBA divers.
Did you know that touching coral can cause damage that takes 100 years to recover? Find out how to protect coral reefs—in the water and at home.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for SCUBA Diving
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Note: See the Snorkeling SAC for a terrific preparatory activity. Freediving is never permitted in a Girl Scout setting.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Evaluate readiness and build progressive skills.
- First, ensure all participants are strong, confident swimmers.
- Try snorkeling to gauge interest.
- Take a non-certification SCUBA experience in a dive agency pool. This is a great way to explore the sport before “diving in.”
- Pursue SCUBA certification if your group is interested.
☐ Identify a qualified SCUBA instructor. Certified instructors will have significant personal diving experience, rescue and emergency response training, and other key qualifications. Recognized instructor certifications include:
- SCUBA Schools International (SSI)
- Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI)
- National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI)
- Documented experience per council guidelines
☐ Maintain proper instructor–student ratios per the instructor’s certification and the conditions present, with a maximum of eight learners per instructor.
☐ Select a safe SCUBA location. Discuss suitable options with your instructor. Look for:
- Pools, recommended for initial training
- Calm water with high visibility
- Minimal current
- Areas away from boating traffic
- Established marine sanctuaries
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
Communicate early with participants and families about what the group leader or facility will provide 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 closest emergency transport and facilities.
- Ensure that a first aid kit will be on hand.
☐ Recruit watchers, if needed. Ask your SCUBA instructor whether watchers (lookouts) are needed or desired; additional adults may be a distraction. If watchers are requested, use the information in the Swimming SAC to help guide preparation.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Check weather.com or another reliable source for the big weather picture.
- Check the local dive report for local conditions, including water quality, tides, and currents.
- Never dive on a stormy or windy day.
- Never dive when lightning threatens.
- Dive only in daylight or with proper experience and equipment.
☐ Evaluate swimming ability. Assessing swimming ability in advance is required. Refer to the Swimming SAC or consult your SCUBA instructor for guidance.
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Fitting and operating all equipment
- Dive planning
- Using the buddy system
- Entering and exiting the water
- Achieving neutral buoyancy
- Clearing the mask of water
- Recovering the regulator if it comes out of the mouth, and purging the regulator
- Hand signals, including signaling for help
Gear for SCUBA Diving
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe, successful SCUBA experience.
Essential gear
- Buoyancy control device (BCD)
- Regulator
- Tanks
- Mask/defog
- Snorkel
- Wetsuit
- Fins and booties
- Surface marker buoy/dive flag
- Dive weight, if local diving
- Dive computer
Advanced gear
- Diving knife
- Dive light
- Tank bangers
- Compass
Optional gear
- Writing slate
- Dry box
- Underwater camera
- Dive log
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Shooting Sports / Firearms
Shooting Sport/Firearm Type |
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council Approval Required? |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
|
Girl Scout program levels permitted Participant to instructor ratios |
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|||||
Target Paintball |
|
5:1 ratio |
10:1 ratio |
Yes |
Yes |
|||
BB/Air Guns |
|
5:1 ratio |
10:1 ratio |
Yes |
Yes |
|||
Rifle |
|
|
|
Age 12 and up 8:1 ratio |
Yes |
Yes |
||
Shotgun, Trap, or Skeet Shooting |
|
|
|
Age 12 and up 8:1 ratio |
Yes |
Yes |
||
Muzzle Loading |
|
|
|
Age 12 and up 2:1 ratio |
Yes |
Yes |
||
Pistol |
|
|
|
Age 12 and up 4:1 ratio |
Yes |
Yes |
||
Automatic firearms and hunting are never permitted in Girl Scouts.
Find focus, precision, and confidence! Learning to shoot is about more than marksmanship—it’s about discipline, responsibility, and control. Whether for sport, recreation, or skill-building, mastering firearms teaches focus, safety, and confidence with every shot.
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
In Olympic shooting, athletes compete in rifle, pistol, and shotgun events. See how points are scored and competition progresses.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Shooting Sports/Firearms
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Note: In this guidance, Shooting Sports/Firearms are defined as those where a propellant emits a projectile. See Archery and Slingshots SACs for those guidelines.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Check with your council first. Some areas may have restrictions or concerns about shooting sports. Before making any plans, obtain written permission from council staff to ensure compliance with local policies.
☐ Confirm caregiver agreement. Parents and guardians may have strong feelings about their child handling or being around firearms. Engage in open dialogue, listen to concerns, and ensure each family can make an informed decision without judgment.
- Obtain specific, written permission from caregivers in advance.
- Respect individual choices—participation should always be optional.
☐ Assess maturity and readiness. Shooting participants must be able and committed to following instructions and handle equipment with care. Build progressive experiences with target sports like slingshots, archery, and BB guns before taking on rifles or more advanced firearms.
☐ Find a safe and suitable shooting range.
- Locate nearby shooting ranges and ask if instructors are available.
- Check local camps. Some camps, including those operated by your council, may offer shooting sports. The American Camp Association’s Find-a-Camp tool can help locate options.
- Explore youth shooting programs. Contact organizations and clubs that include youth-focused target shooting in their activities.
- Confirm safe range practices. An advance visit is recommended to assess safety measures. See “Confirm range setup” in the Day of the Activity section below for key safety criteria.
☐ Identify a qualified coach/instructor.
- All shooting sports require a trained instructor. Ensure that the instructor you choose has the qualification to teach and supervise the type of firearm to be used. Recognized certifications include:
- 4-H Shooting Sports
- Appleseed Project
- Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP)
- National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF)
- National Rifle Association (NRA)
- Documented experience per council guidelines
- Maintain instructor–participant ratios specified by the instructor’s certification, with a maximum of those listed in the table above.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
- Review Gear for Shooting Sports/Firearms at the end of this section.
- Ask your instructor 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 closest emergency transport and facilities.
- Ensure that a first aid kit will be on hand.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Consult your instructor; postpone or cancel if conditions are unsuitable for the group’s skill level.
- Review procedures for sudden storms.
- Never shoot when lightning threatens.
- Stop activities if precipitation or cold weather reduces footing or grip.
- Do not shoot in the dark.
☐ Confirm range setup. Check these items during decision-making or planning and preparation. Double-check on arrival to ensure that:
- Range rules and commands are clearly posted
- Equipment is stored in a box, closet, or cabinet and is locked when not in use
- Ammunition and firearms are stored in separate, locked containers or areas with different locks and combinations
- Caliber firearms have working trigger locks for storage (exceptions: BB and air guns)
- Shooting line is clearly defined
- Facility with soap and cold water is available; wash face and hands as soon as possible to limit lead exposure.
- For outdoor ranges:
- Targets are not set in pedestrian areas or near buildings, roads, trails, or tents
- Backstops or a safety zone (at least 100 yards) is set behind the targets
- Clearly delineated rear and side safety buffers (at least 30 yards) are known to participants and facility users
- Area is free of brush or anything that obscures visibility
- The range is not used in the dark
- For indoor ranges:
- Targets are well lit
- Doors or entries to the range are locked or blocked from the inside
- Fire exits are not blocked
☐ Ensure instructor completes safety checks. This includes inspecting:
- All equipment before each use
- Range and surroundings
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Range commands
- Body positioning and form
- Safety clip on until time to shoot
- Gun kept pointed in a safe direction
- Firearm handling and safety procedures
- No “dry” firing
- Sighting and aiming
- No collecting of casings as souvenirs (to avoid lead exposure)
- No use of targets in the image of human beings
- How to retrieve disposable targets, if used
Gear for Shooting Sports/Firearms
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe, successful shooting experience. Consult with your expert about any other recommendations.
Essential equipment
- Firearm
- Ammunition
- Targets
- Wet wipes
Paintball gear
- Barrel-blocking device (sleeve)
- CO2 or compressed air tank
- Paintball hopper
Safety gear
- Safety glasses
- Ear protection
Clothing and footwear
- Sturdy, closed-toed shoes
- Layered clothing for the weather
- Hair, clothing, or jewelry secured if it could be caught in equipment
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Skating
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
No |
Glide, twirl, and try cool new moves to the beat of roller rink music. Feel the fresh air as you skate on the ice. Take on a new challenge on a skateboard. Get out and skate!
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
- Check the ice before venturing out! Use guidance from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
- Discover roller skating tips with Skatie.
- Practice how to stop on ice skates with Coach Mary.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Skating
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Note: Skating includes ice skating, roller and inline skating, and skateboarding.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Find a safe place to skate. Check with your Girl Scout network for suggestions or consider:
- An indoor rink for roller or ice skating—contact the rink manager to arrange for large groups or lessons.
- Outdoor roller skating during the day or in well-lit areas at night
- Skateboarding in a designated park
- Skating on streets or in parking lots (only if they are closed to traffic)
- Trails and paths designed for skating, free from significant pedestrian or other traffic—check local ordinances if you’re unsure where skating is allowed.
☐ Identify an expert. Arrange for beginner instruction by an adult with experience teaching skating, if needed.
☐ Make plans for access. Make sure your location is accessible for all in your group. Inclusive Skating has resources for accommodation.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Practice falling. On grass or a soft surface, teach participants to land on the fleshy parts of the body and roll, rather than breaking a fall with arms and hands.
☐ 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.
☐ Be clear on gear. See the items needed for each activity. Discuss with participants and families well in advance what the group leader or facility will provide and what each person should bring themselves.
☐ Review the key safety points below to plan your activity.
Day of the Activity
☐ Review skating safety basics.
- Avoid rough surfaces, debris, or untested ice.
- Make sure wheels turn freely, or that ice skate blades are smooth and sharp.
- Tie skates securely and inspect laces.
- Learn how to move, turn, and stop safely.
- Do not push, shove, or race.
- If falling, don’t grab another skater.
- Get up quickly after a fall, unless injured.
- Do not use headphones or earbuds while skating.
- Leave sharp or loose items in a safe place.
☐ Follow right of way rules.
- Skate in the same direction as others.
- Pull to the side if stopping.
- Yield to skaters already in motion or on a ramp.
Key Safety Points
Roller Rink Skating in an indoor facility with smooth, maintained floors:
- Follow all posted rink rules and staff directions.
- Beginners should stay near the wall or in designated learner areas.
- Helmets are strongly recommended; wrist, knee, and elbow pads are encouraged.
- Check rental skates for proper fit and wheel condition.
- Avoid weaving through crowds or forming long skating chains.
Ice Rink Skating on an indoor or maintained outdoor ice rink:
- Follow rink signage and stay within designated skating areas.
- A certified rink staff or instructor should be present.
- Helmets are strongly recommended. Choose one rated for ice sports; wrist, knee, and elbow pads are encouraged.
- Gloves and layered clothing are recommended.
- Inspect skates for fit and blade condition before skating.
- Avoid games or speed skating unless permitted by the rink.
Outdoor Roller or Inline Skating on smooth, level surfaces like paved trails, park paths, or closed parking lots:
- Avoid wet, sandy, or uneven surfaces.
- Skate only in daylight or well-lit areas.
- Always wear a helmet and wrist, knee, and elbow guards.
- Use bright or reflective clothing for visibility.
- Skate in single file, yield to pedestrians and cyclists, and follow traffic rules.
Skateboarding at designated skateboard parks or in smooth, open paved areas closed to traffic:
- Skate only in approved or designated skate parks.
- Beginners should practice on level ground before attempting ramps or tricks.
- Always wear a helmet and wrist, knee, and elbow pads.
- Wear closed-toed, flat, non-slip shoes.
- Observe skate park etiquette:
- Wait your turn; stay out of ramps and bowls unless riding.
- Don’t wax obstacles without permission.
- Make room for others using the space.
- If your board flies loose, yell “Board!” to alert others.
- Never hitch a ride from a bike, car, or other vehicle.
- Choose a board suited to the conditions. Cruiser boards are stable; shorter boards turn sharply. Wheels must spin freely. Soft wheels grip rough surfaces, while hard wheels offer more speed.
Ice Skating on Natural Bodies of Water on frozen lakes or ponds only where ice has been determined to be safe:
- Never skate on rivers, moving water, or untested ice.
- Ensure ice thickness is at least 4 inches for individuals and 8 inches for groups; check every 150 feet.
- A qualified adult or expert with ice rescue experience must be present.
- Designate watchers to monitor all skaters. Maintain a watcher-to-participant ratio of 1:6 for Daisies, 1:10 for older Girl Scouts.
- Wear a helmet rated for ice sports; wrist, knee, and elbow pads are encouraged.
- Gloves and layered clothing are recommended.
- Have ice picks, a throw rope, and hypothermia supplies available.
- Teach self-rescue techniques and what to do if someone falls through ice.
Gear for Skating
Gear is individualized to the specific skating activity. Consider your needs and plan accordingly.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Sledding, Snow Tubing, and Tobogganing
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
No |
Whether you’re zipping down a hill on a plastic disc sled, bouncing on a snow tube, or gliding on a classic wooden toboggan, sledding on fresh snow is an unforgettable thrill!
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for essential supervision, transportation, first aid, and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
Learn More
Check out the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Bobsled and Skeleton teams.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Sledding Sports
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 go sledding.
- Established sledding areas are preferred. Some offer lessons.
- Select a gentle slope free of roads, obstacles, and hazards, with a clear run-out zone.
- Do not sled near bodies of water or where skiers or snowboarders are present.
- Ensure sledding is permitted by the property owner or municipality.
☐ Identify an expert. No formal training or certification is required for sledding, snow tubing, or tobogganing. Identify an experienced sledder to help assess safe routes. For additional guidance, read these tips on sledding from the National Safety Council.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear. See the list at the end of this section. Discuss with participants and families well in advance so they know what to bring versus what will be provided.
☐ 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 in a waterproof container.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather. Know the forecast for temperature, snow conditions, wind speed, visibility, precipitation, and avalanche risk. Postpone if severe weather threatens.
☐ Know the slopes. With all participants:
- Check for hazards such as trees, rocks, bodies of water, icy patches, and roads. Show your group how to avoid these hazards.
- Point out the sledding area boundaries and ensure all participants stay within sight of an adult.
- Learn how to obtain help.
- Learn where participants can rest and use a toilet.
- Designate a meeting spot in case of separation.
☐ Teach the basics.
- Ride feet-first only.
- Learn to steer and stop safely.
- Walk uphill on a separate path from sledding tracks.
- Understand how to ride lifts or tow ropes, if available.
- Never tow sleds behind vehicles, including snowmobiles.
☐ Follow safety and etiquette rules.
- Yield to those already on the slope.
- Do not cross another sledder’s path.
- Signal before turning.
- Move quickly to the side of the slope after a fall (unless injured).
- Obey all staff instructions and posted rules.
- Gear for Sledding, Snow Tubing, and Tobogganing
- Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful sledding, snow tubing, or tobogganing experience.
Essential equipment
Sled, tube, or toboggan, in good condition, with no sharp edges or cracks
Safety gear
Helmets are strongly recommended; use a properly fitting bicycle or ski helmet.
Clothing and footwear
- Waterproof boots, jacket, and pants
- Thermal or long underwear, if needed
- Insulating socks and gloves or mittens
- Winter hat
- Sunglasses or ski goggles for glare protection
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Slingshots
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
Ready, Aim, Fun! Slingshots are an exciting way to build focus, coordination, and aim. Whether you’re hitting targets for fun or honing your skills, you’ll love the challenge of precision and control!
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 targeted tips from SimpleShot’s Slingshots 101 video.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Slingshots
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Note: Hunting is not permitted in a Girl Scout setting.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Find a safe place to shoot. Check nearby ranges, and ask if instructors can be hired.
- Check local camps—including those operated by your council. The American Camp Association’s Find-a-Camp tool can help you to locate options.
- Public slingshot ranges are rare, but you can set one up for your group! Follow Summer Camp Programming’s guidelines and make safe, creative targets from found objects.
- Ensure safe range practices are in place. See “Confirm range setup” in the Day of the Activity section, below.
☐ Identify a qualified instructor.
- While no formal certification is required to teach slingshots, instructors should have experience teaching youth to shoot. Look for someone who:
- Is trained and experienced in the slingshots, ammunition, and range type being used
- Is experienced with teaching proper form and technique, range rules, and emergency procedures
☐ Maintain instructor–participant ratios specified by the instructor’s training, with a maximum of five participants per instructor for Daisies and Brownies or ten participants per instructor for older shooters.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
- Review Gear for Slingshots at the end of this section.
- Ask the range operator or your instructor 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 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 that a first aid kit will be on hand.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Consult your instructor; postpone or cancel if conditions are unsuitable for the group’s skill level.
- Review procedures for sudden storms.
- Never shoot when lightning threatens.
- Stop activities if precipitation or cold weather reduces footing or grip.
- Do not shoot in the dark.
☐ Confirm range setup. Ask about the following items during decision-making or planning and preparation, then confirm on the day of the activity.
- Range rules and commands are clearly posted.
- Equipment is stored in a box, closet, or cabinet, and is locked away when not in use.
- Ranges are not set in pedestrian areas or near buildings, roads, trails, or tents.
- Backstops or a safety zone exist behind the targets.
- Clearly delineated rear and side safety buffers are known to participants and facility users.
- Shooting line is clearly defined.
- The area is free of brush or anything that obscures visibility.
☐ Ensure instructor completes safety checks, such as inspecting:
- All equipment before each use
- Range and surroundings
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Safety procedures and range commands
- Determining your dominant eye for effective aim
- Body positioning
- Keeping the slingshot pointed in a safe direction
- How to load and fire ammunition
- Using appropriate targets—never aim at anything resembling a human figure.
Gear for Slingshots
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful slingshot experience.
Essential equipment
- Slingshot appropriate for user age
- Ammunition (biodegradable clay is preferred; dog food kibbles, marshmallows, ping pong balls and half-inch paintballs are acceptable). Clean up any food or non-biodegradable items.
- Targets (manufactured targets or found objects)
Safety gear
- Safety glasses
Clothing and footwear
- Hard, closed-toed shoes
- Hair, clothing, or jewelry secured if it could be caught in equipment
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Snorkeling
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
|
|
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
Open a new world, underwater! Discover colorful fish, coral reefs, and marine life up close. Use simple equipment to glide through the water and experience nature.
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 ready for your adventure with these Snorkeling 101 tips.
- Did you know that touching coral can cause damage that takes 100 years to recover? Find out how to protect coral reefs—in the water and at home.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Snorkeling
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 safe snorkeling location. Look for:
- Calm water with high visibility
- Minimal current
- Areas away from boating traffic
- Established marine sanctuaries
☐ Identify a qualified instructor/guide and rescuer.
- Recognized instructor certifications include:
- SCUBA Schools International (SSI)
- Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI)
- National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI)
- Documented experience per council guidelines
- Ensure rescue proficiency. If the instructor’s training does not include rescue procedures, identify a lifeguard trained for the location. The primary guard must be an adult; secondary guards must be at least 16. Training may include:
- American Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguarding
- YMCA Waterfront Lifeguarding
- Open water lifeguard training
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
Communicate early with participants and families about what the group leader or facility will supply and what individuals need to 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 that a first aid kit will be on hand.
☐ Encourage skill-building. Swim strength and endurance improve the snorkeling experience—and safety. Encourage group members to take lessons at their local pool.
☐ Prepare for emergencies.
- An adult with rescue experience and/or certification must be present.
- If snorkeling from a boat, at least one adult should have Girl Scouts Small Craft Safety training or equivalent experience.
☐ Recruit watchers.
- Plan adequate watchers for the number of snorkelers in your group: one watcher for every ten swimmers. Note that watchers never replace a certified lifeguard.
- Provide training options. Consider the following:
- American Red Cross Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers course. This free, 20-minute online course deepens awareness of drowning risks and how to minimize those risks.
- YMCA Aquatic Safety Assistant or equivalent training
- Alternatively, instructors may be able to give an orientation to watchers; ask in advance.
- Let them know what watchers do:
- Assist the group by watching for possible emergencies.
- Focus on the group (no phones, reading, etc.).
- Remind participants of the buddy system and other safety rules.
- Watch for fatigue and suggest rest breaks.
- Stay out of the water, unless needed in an emergency.
- Follow the directions of the instructor.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Check weather.com or another reliable source for the big weather picture.
- Check the local dive report for local conditions, including water quality, tides, and currents.
- Never snorkel on a stormy or windy day.
- Never snorkel when lightning threatens.
- Check water quality reports with a resource such as the EPA’s How’s My Waterway? interactive map, especially after rainfall.
- Snorkel only in daylight or with proper experience and equipment.
☐ Assess swimming ability. Strong swimming skills are important for snorkelers’ 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.
- Non-swimmers must wear a snorkeling vest and stay in very calm waters.
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- How to properly fit a snorkeling vest or belt, if used
- How to fit mask/snorkel and fins
- Preventing fogging and clearing a mask
- Entering and exiting the water
- Use of the buddy system:
- Buddies should be of the same swimming ability.
- Buddies enter and leave the water together.
- Buddies stay near each other so they can call for help if the other is in trouble.
- How to signal for help
☐ Provide guidelines.
- Stay within designated snorkeling area.
- Never touch coral; it’s harmful to the coral and to your skin.
- Avoid contact with any animals present.
Gear for Snorkeling
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful snorkeling experience.
Essential equipment
- Mask and snorkel
- Fins (required for snorkeling in open water)
Safety gear
- Wearable flotation device; consult your instructor about availability.
- Snorkeling vests are required for non-swimmers.
- Vests or belts are recommended for all, especially where current, swells, or poor visibility are present.
- If snorkeling vests or belts are not available, non-swimmers should wear life jackets. Use only US Coast Guard–approved life jackets, properly sized and fitted.
- Throwable personal flotation device (Type IV cushion, ring buoy, or equivalent) available for each group on the water
- Dive flag
- Other gear may be indicated for certain conditions.
Clothing and footwear
- Wetsuit when water temperature is below 70°F
- Gloves or neoprene booties for cold, or when sharp shore or surfaces are present
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Snowshoeing
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
No |
Turn your favorite parks and trails into a snowy playground with snowshoeing! This fun winter activity is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Strap in and start your adventure!
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 Snowshoeing
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 snowshoe.
- Start with mostly flat trails with groomed or packed snow.
- Check with your council office, park rangers, cross-country ski areas, or AllTrails for suggested locations.
- Ask the property owner or authority for permission to snowshoe.
☐ Make it Girl Scout–led.
- Since snowshoeing is possible on almost any snow-covered path, ask your group where they’d like to go.
- Have participants plan distance, rest breaks, and what high-energy food they want to bring.
- Guide participants in deciding what items to bring with them.
☐ Identify an expert. No formal training or certification is required for snowshoeing. Identify someone with experience teaching youth who can provide instruction and help assess safe routes.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear. See the list at the end of this section. Discuss with participants and families well in advance so they know what to bring versus what will be provided.
☐ Plan for skill-building. Especially for new or inexperienced snowshoers, start with a 30-minute hike. Build up to longer treks and more challenging routes.
☐ 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 in a waterproof container.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather. Know the forecast for temperature, snow conditions, windspeed, visibility, precipitation, and avalanche risk. Postpone if severe weather threatens.
☐ Know the area. With all participants:
- Check for hazards such as trees, pits, rocks, bodies of water, icy patches, and roads. Show your group how to avoid these hazards.
- Learn how to obtain help.
- Learn where participants can rest and use a toilet.
- Designate a meeting spot in case of separation.
☐ Teach the basics. Refer to L.L. Bean’s How to Snowshoe video to learn:
- How to put on snowshoes
- How to move forward, go up and down hills, and change directions
- How to use poles
- How to recover from a fall; have participants practice getting back up.
☐ Follow safety and etiquette rules.
- Yield to cross-country skiers. Skiers will say, “Track, please” to indicate they’d like to pass a slower snowshoer.
- Avoid stepping on cross-country ski tracks. Walk next to them instead.
- When going downhill, yield to those going uphill.
- Do not snowshoe near the edges of embankments or cliffs.
- Obey all staff instructions and posted rules.
- Stay off bodies of water unless ice has been tested.
- Know how to recognize and manage hazards like creek crossings, changing weather, avalanche conditions, and depressions that might be disguised by snow.
Gear for Snowshoeing
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful snowshoeing experience.
Essential equipment
- Snowshoes, sized and adjusted, and strapped securely around the shoe or boot
- Poles sized for each person’s height
Clothing and footwear
- Waterproof boots, jacket, and pants
- Thermal or long underwear, if needed
- Insulating socks and gloves or mittens
- Winter hat
- Sunglasses or ski goggles for glare protection
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Spelunking / Caving
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 visit tourist or commercial caves with safety features like paths, lighting, stairways, and guided tours.
Spelunking, or caving, is an exciting way to discover hidden worlds! Learn about caves (speleology) and ancient fossils (paleontology) while climbing, crawling, and using ropes to navigate rocky passages. Get ready to explore the underground!
Learn More
Urge all participants to take ACA’s free online paddlesports safety course.
Discover ACA’s guidance on when (and when not) to wear life jackets and leashes when paddleboarding.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for essential supervision, transportation, first aid, and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Spelunking
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 go caving.
- Assess group interest with a tour in a “show cave” (a natural cave prepared for public tours). Check the National Caves Association’s list or a cave in a national park.
- When ready for a more rugged adventure, choose a known cave with identified routes. Consult a National Speleological Society grotto (club) for local recommendations. Some show caves have off-tour expeditions.
- Get written permission from the site owner/operator and get current conditions and warnings about the cave.
☐ Identify an expert. Engage a knowledgeable guide who has:
- Advice on cave selection
- Ability to accompany the group into the cave
- Documented experience in cave exploration
- For non-vertical cave exploration, experience leading trips
- For vertical cave exploration, appropriate Level 1 or Master Trainer certification from the National Speleological Society (NSS) or equivalent certification
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
- Review Gear for Spelunking/Caving 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 themselves.
☐ Educate in advance. Participants should learn about basic caving guidelines before planning their adventure. Review:
- What to expect in the cave
- How to handle equipment to be used
- Precautions for protecting the fragile and sensitive environment in a cave, including how to recognize and use resistance surfaces for travel
- How to take care with food (the smallest food crumbs can impact the site)
- How to pack out all human waste (solids and fluids) if no latrine is available
☐ Learn special skills, if needed. For vertical caving, all participants must have basic-level vertical caving skills as noted by the NSS. Ask your guide what preparatory training is needed.
☐ 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 in a waterproof container.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Know the temperature forecast.
- Postpone if severe weather threatens.
- Be especially cautious about wet weather; avoid caves with stream passages, as some can flood.
☐ Stick together for safety.
- Never go caving with fewer than four people in your group.
- Appoint a reliable, experienced caver as the lead or guide.
- Appoint another reliable person as the “sweep” whose job it is to keep the group together.
☐ Review the basics.
- Never enter an unstable cave or a mine that has been closed or condemned.
- Learn how to review the cave map and identify your location.
- Use three points of contact with the cave at all times. Contact points include hands, feet, knees, elbows, and at times, rear end—when doing the “cave scoot.”
- Use the buddy system.
- Make sure everyone knows what to do if separated: stay calm, remain in a safe location, and signal for help by making noise.
Gear for Spelunking/Caving
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful spelunking/caving experience.
Essential equipment
- Helmet: properly fitting helmet that meets UIAA (International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation) ratings; climbing helmets are designed to absorb force from objects falling from above.
- Headlamp to keep hands free, ideally helmet-mounted
- Padding for knees and elbows if crawling is expected
- Compass
- Low-profile, waterproof pack for belongings, water, high-energy food, and a trash bag
Safety gear
- Belt and harness, if recommended by your expert
- Two backup headlamps or flashlights
- Spare bulbs and batteries
Clothing and footwear
- Boots with ankle protection and good traction
- Hiking boots for dry areas
- Wellies or rubber boots for wet caves
- Layered, synthetic clothing to adjust to changing cave temperatures
- Wear long pants and sleeves to protect from scrapes.
- Consider taking an extra set of clothing.
- Gloves to protect hands from scrapes and mud
- Avoid dangling items like jewelry or scarves.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
|
|
* |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
*Juniors may paddle only on flat water and must stay within swimming distance of shore.
Chill or thrill—it’s up to you! Stand-up paddleboarding is easy to learn and tons of fun, with challenging advanced options like racing, surfing, whitewater, or even yoga on the water.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for essential supervision, transportation, first aid, and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
Learn More
- Urge all participants to take ACA’s free online paddlesports safety course.
- Discover ACA’s guidance on when (and when not) to wear life jackets and leashes when paddleboarding.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Paddleboarding
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 paddleboard.
- Nearly any body of water is suitable for SUP with the right instruction, equipment, and experience. Start on flat water with little to no current. Progress to more advanced conditions, such as rivers or surf.
- Paddling.com and American Whitewater have interactive maps of paddling locations.
- A soft bottom (such as sand or mud) is generally best. Avoid areas with sharp rocks or coral, as falls are inevitable.
- Paddling is not permitted farther than 1 mile from the nearest shore. Avoid shipping lanes.
Note: The U.S. Coast Guard considers SUPs to be vessels when they are used outside of designated swim areas or ocean surfing zones. Follow all regulations about life jackets, sound devices, lights, etc.
☐ Identify an expert.
- Arrange for instruction by an adult with experience teaching and supervising paddleboarding for the ages involved.
- Engage a certified instructor with training suited to your location and conditions from:
- American Canoe Association (ACA)—various certification levels
- National Surf/SUP Schools & Instructors Association
- Girl Scouts Small Craft Safety Course (with SUP module)
- American Red Cross Lifeguarding with Waterfront Module (for flat water, near shore only)
- Documented experience per your council’s guidelines
- Follow the instructor–student ratio, following 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 paddling location.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
- Review Gear for Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) 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 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 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.
- Very competent swimming ability is required for SUP surfing and river SUP due to stronger currents and waves.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Consult your instructor; postpone or cancel if conditions are unsuitable for your group’s skill level.
- Never SUP during a storm.
- Monitor wave conditions, as surf height and form change daily. Use resources like Wannasurf.com and Surfline.com for live updates.
- Check water quality reports on Surfrider’s interactive map, especially after rainfall.
- Inspect the area upon arrival for potential weather-related hazards.
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Proper body position and balancing on the board
- Launching and landing techniques
- Popping up from kneeling to a standing position
- Propelling and steering the board with effective strokes
- Maneuvering through waves and wakes
- Falling safely away from the board during a wipeout, and how to self-rescue
- In surf, navigating around the break, and recognizing and managing rip currents
- Marine life precautions, such as shuffling feet to avoid stingrays
- Signaling for help
- Any site-specific instructions
☐ 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.
☐ Follow paddling right of way rules.
- Yield to swimmers and less maneuverable watercraft.
- When traveling in the same general direction, the paddler on the left yields to the one on the right.
- When approaching head-on, both paddlers steer to the right.
- In narrow channels, keep to the right and yield to larger vessels.
- In surf zones, the person closest to the wave peak has priority; avoid cutting others off.
- Maintain control of your board to avoid 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.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding Trips: Additional Considerations
Stand-up paddleboarding 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.
☐ File a float plan for any trip.
- Provide a reliable adult with information about your boat(s) and the people aboard.
- This fillable includes steps for your contact to take if they are concerned about your safety.
☐ Ensure basic skills.
- Participants must have the skill and stamina to finish the trip, even if headwinds or other challenges arise.
- Participants must learn how to cross busy channels, if necessary. Generally, cross at a 90-degree angle to channel traffic.
- Participants must learn universal signals.
☐ 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.
☐ Stick together.
- Assign a lead paddler to set a pace that meets the group’s needs.
- Assign a strong “sweep” paddler to support and encourage anyone who falls behind.
- Keep boards close enough together so that a group decision can be made if wind or water conditions change.
☐ Plan a safe route.
- Be aware of possible changes in water level due to tides or dam releases, and how these may impact your route.
- Avoid hazards such as strainers, sieves, hydraulics, waterfalls, bridges, dams, fences, and low power lines. Rapids must be avoided unless part of a planned whitewater route.
☐ See the additional gear needed for trips under Gear for Stand-Up Paddleboarding. Consult your guide about what else may be needed.
Gear for Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful stand-up paddleboarding experience.
Individual and group essentials
Essential equipment
- Boards suited to participants’ skill level and conditions; stable, easy-to-paddle boards are best for beginners.
- Properly sized paddle
- Fins for directional control
- Coiled ankle leash for board security
- Straight leash for SUP surfing
- Quick-release leash for river SUP
- Pump, if using inflatable SUPs
Safety gear
- Coast Guard-approved life jacket, properly sized and fitted for each person (required). Exception: life jackets are not worn when SUP surfing. Review this ACA video for explanation.
- Rescue whistle
- Throwable personal flotation device (Type IV cushion, ring buoy, or equivalent) available for each group on the water
- Tow line and/or throw bag for rescues (carried by the instructor)
- For river SUP:
- Helmets for Class II or higher rapids
- Chest, arm, and leg protection recommended
Clothing and footwear
- Layered, non-cotton clothing (rash guards 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
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, water, first aid kit, etc.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Surfing
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
|
* |
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
*Brownies may use body boards instead of surfboards.
Catch a wave for an exhilarating thrill that provides an unmatched rush. Surfing deepens your connection to nature, fosters patience and resilience, and elevates skill.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for essential supervision, transportation, first aid, and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
Learn More
- The International Surfing Association (ISA) is a one-stop spot for international competitions, parasurfing, and more.
- Surfline posts maps and video feeds of surf spots all around the globe.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Surfing
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
☐ Evaluate readiness. Consider surfing only if all group members are known to be competent swimmers. A swim assessment is still required; see Planning and Preparation for details.
☐ Find a safe place to surf.
- Ask local surfers where to go. Search for surfing lessons in your area or where you will visit. Be aware that looking for “best surf spots” will probably lead you to areas for advanced surfers; make sure to choose an area appropriate for your group’s experience and skill level.
- Surfing typically takes place on the ocean, but some rivers and large lakes may have suitable surf.
- A soft bottom (such as sand or mud) is generally best. Avoid areas with sharp rocks or coral, as falls are inevitable.
☐ Identify an expert.
- Arrange for instruction by an adult with experience teaching and supervising surfing for the ages involved. After participants gain some proficiency, they can continue surfing on public beaches where a lifeguard is on duty.
- Engage a certified instructor with training suited to your location and conditions. Look for:
- National Surf/SUP Schools & Instructors Association
- International Surfing Association
- Equivalent certification or documented experience according to your council’s guidelines
- Follow the instructor–student ratios for which your instructor is certified, with a maximum of four learners for each instructor.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear. See Gear for Surfing at the end of this section. Discuss with participants and families well in advance what the group leader or surf school 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 in a waterproof container.
☐ Assess swimming ability. Strong swimming skills are essential for surfing. A swim assessment is required to ensure participant readiness.
- Advance swim assessment is recommended to avoid disappointment.
- Same-day assessments may be conducted if necessary.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Consult your coach; postpone or cancel if conditions are unsuitable for your group’s skill level.
- Never surf during a storm.
- Monitor wave conditions, as surf height and form change daily. Use resources like Wannasurf.com and Surfline.com for live updates.
- Check water quality reports on Surfrider’s interactive map, especially after rainfall.
- Inspect the surf spot upon arrival for potential weather-related hazards.
☐ Ensure everyone learns the basics.
- Proper body position on the board
- Popping up from paddling to a standing position
- Paddling out and navigating waves to get past the break line
- Catching a wave and maintaining balance
- Falling safely away from the board during a wipeout
- Recognizing rip currents and paddling parallel to shore if caught in one
- Marine life precautions, such as shuffling feet to avoid stingrays
- Signaling for help
☐ Follow surfing right of way rules.
- Avoid the break and other surfers’ paths when paddling out.
- Control your board to prevent it from hitting others.
- Respect the right of way; the surfer closest to the peak has priority.
- Don’t “snake” in front of another surfer riding a wave.
- Ask your coach to explain additional right-of-way rules.
☐ 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.
Gear for Surfing
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful stand-up paddleboarding experience.
Essential equipment
- Surfboards, suited to participants’ skill level and conditions (soft deck or foam longboards are best for beginners)
- Surf wax for better board grip
- Fins for directional control
- Ankle leash for board security
Safety gear
- Throwable personal flotation device (Type IV cushion, ring buoy, or equivalent) available for each group on the water
Clothing and footwear
- Rash guard for sun and skin protection
- Wetsuit recommended if the water temperature is below 70°F; ask instructor about rentals.
- Neoprene booties for cold water or rocky shore
- Goggles or alternative eyewear for those who wear glasses
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Swimming
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
Jump in, cool off, and have fun! Whether you’re floating with friends, racing to the finish, or mastering new skills, swimming is a great way to build confidence for all kinds of water adventures.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for essential supervision, transportation, first aid, and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
Learn More
- Level up your skills! Take Safety Around Water or swim lessons at a local YMCA.
- Ready to play? Try these 24 Fun Swimming Pool Games with your Girl Scout friends.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Swimming
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 safe swimming location. Swimming is possible in many natural bodies of water, as well as pools and water parks. Look for:
- Municipal or Parks & Recreation department pools
- YMCAs or local clubs with pools and waterfronts
- County or state park beaches
- Established water parks
- Private (backyard) pools; ensure the pool is well-maintained and that the property owner is adequately insured.
☐ Determine lifeguard and watcher (or lookout) needs. Confirm in advance whether a lifeguard will be present.
- When using a staffed facility, like a public pool, lifeguards are provided.
- At public beaches, lifeguards must be on duty. Check on-duty hours before making plans.
- For backyard pools and other unstaffed pools and locations (such as some hotels or cruise ships), you must recruit a lifeguard. Use this table to determine how many you’ll need. Ask your council about references or available lifeguard training.
Swimming Lifeguard and Watcher Ratios |
||
Number of |
Lifeguards |
Watchers |
1–10 |
One adult (16 or older is acceptable for pools) |
1 |
11–25 |
One adult (16 or older is acceptable for pools) |
2–3 |
26–35 |
Two lifeguards, at least one of whom is an adult; additional lifeguards may be 16 years of age or older |
3–4 |
36–50 |
Two lifeguards, at least one of whom is an adult; additional lifeguards may be 16 years of age or older |
4–5 |
- Ensure lifeguards have appropriate certifications for your location. Public facilities will be staffed appropriately. If you arrange your own lifeguards, check that they’re qualified, as follows:
Venue |
Recognized Certifications |
Pools |
American Red Cross Lifeguarding YMCA Lifeguard Equivalent certification approved by your council |
Lakes, rivers, or streams |
American Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguarding YMCA Waterfront Lifeguarding Equivalent certification approved by your council |
Open water or beaches |
Professional lifeguards certified in accordance with local and state norms and standards |
Shallow water |
No lifeguard is necessary for wading in calm, shallow water. If wading water is deeper than typical participants’ knees, an adult should complete the American Red Cross Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers training, or equivalent. |
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
Communicate early with participants and families about what the group leader or facility will supply and what individuals need to bring themselves.
☐ Line up first aid.
- Ensure that at least one adult has First Aid/CPR/AED training. While lifeguards are trained in first aid, be prepared to care for basic needs so the lifeguard(s) can continue supervision.
- 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 that a first aid kit will be on hand.
☐ Recruit watchers.
- Plan adequate watchers (sometimes called “lookouts”) for the number of swimmers in your group: one for every ten swimmers. Note that watchers never replace a certified lifeguard.
- Provide training options:
- American Red Cross Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers course. This free, 20-minute, online course deepens awareness of drowning risks and how to minimize those risks.
- YMCA Aquatic Safety Assistant or equivalent training
- Alternatively, lifeguards may be able to give an orientation to watchers; ask in advance.
- Let them know what watchers do:
- Assist the group by watching for possible emergencies.
- Focus on the group (no phones, reading, etc.).
- Remind swimmers of the buddy system and other safety rules.
- Watch for fatigue and suggest rest breaks.
- Stay out of the water, unless needed in an emergency.
- Follow the directions of the lifeguard.
Day of the Activity
☐ Check the weather.
- Never swim when lightning threatens.
- Check water quality reports on the EPA’s How’s My Waterway? interactive map, especially after rainfall.
- Swim only in daylight or in well-lit pools.
☐ Check the site on arrival. Confirm that:
- Diving areas are separate from swim areas and have 10 feet of clearance on all sides
- Pool and water park:
- Shallow areas are marked “No Diving”
- Water is clear for effective lifeguarding
- Chlorine levels are monitored
- Health department status is posted (public pools)
- Decks are free of clutter and electrical appliances are not present
- Natural bodies of water:
- All participants are aware of tides and currents, especially rip currents
- Diving areas are clear; if tides, drought, or other forces affect water depth, check depth each time before diving is permitted.
- Sharp, rocky, or heavily shelled areas are avoided, if possible
☐ Evaluate swimming ability.
- Assessing swimmers based on their confidence and skill level helps ensure safety and allows participation in appropriate activities. Swim assessments are required for some aquatic activities and recommended for others, with the rigor of the test depending on the sport or conditions.
Example assessments:
- Pool: Slowly enter the water, stay near the edge, swim across the pool, and float for 30 seconds.
- Lake (e.g., for windsurfing): Jump from a dock, swim 50 yards, then tread water for two minutes.
- Surfing (assessed in advance): Jump into deep water, swim 100 yards using freestyle and elementary backstroke, then tread water for two minutes.
General guidelines:
- A sample swim assessment form is included on the Additional Resources page, and can be customized based on expert recommendations. Use the form when you need to record evaluation.
- If a pool operator does not require a swim assessment, assume all participants are non-swimmers.
- In large groups, it’s helpful to have color-coded wristbands or another indicator so guards can easily tell who should be in certain areas.
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Use the buddy system:
- Buddies should be of the same swimming ability.
- Buddies enter and leave the water together.
- Buddies stay near each other so they can call for help if the other is in trouble.
- Practice safe behavior, such as walking (not running) on the pool deck and not roughhousing.
- Stay within designated swimming areas.
- Never run or dive at water parks.
- Never dive in unknown depths or conditions.
- Never dive off the side of a diving board.
- Understand how to recognize and manage rip currents, if present.
- Know how to avoid contact with any animals present, such as stingrays.
- Provide any site-specific reminders, including areas that are off-limits.
Gear for Swimming
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful swimming experience.
Safety gear for pools (ask the facility about available equipment)
- Reaching pole
- Rescue tube
- Backboard
- Ring buoy
- Throw bag with line (typically 30 feet)
Safety gear for open water
- Paddleboard or kayak
- Rescue can
- Rescue gear
Clothing and footwear
- Water shoes for hot or sharp pool decks or beaches
- Swimsuit, rash guard, etc. (no swimming in cotton clothing)
- Goggles, swim cap, and nose clip (optional)
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Tethered Balloon Rides
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
|
|
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
No |
Experience breathtaking views of the city or countryside as you gently rise above the ground! A tethered hot air or helium balloon ride offers the thrill of floating while staying securely anchored.
Note: Untethered hot air balloon rides are not permitted.
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for essential supervision, transportation, first aid, and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
Learn More
Look for tethered balloon rides at balloon festivals, like Albuquerque’s famously colorful fiesta each October.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Tethered Balloon Rides
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
☐ Understand tethered balloon options.
- Helium Balloon Rides: Permanently installed and inflated with helium, these balloons feature a donut-shaped gondola (or “basket”) beneath them. A single cable runs through the gondola to the ground, allowing the operator to control ascent and descent.
- Tethered Hot Air Balloons: Using heated air for lift, these colorful balloons suspend a passenger gondola below. A licensed pilot controls altitude with propane-fueled heat. The balloon is secured to the ground by three anchors, with the crew monitoring wind conditions and assisting riders.
☐ Find a safe place to go on a tethered balloon ride. You might find vendors at:
- Well-established venues: amusement parks, zoos, or similar facilities that have a permanent ride
- Festivals or fairs: temporary attractions
- Private events where the organizer has rented a balloon
☐ Select a qualified operator. When choosing a balloon ride, ensure the operator meets safety and regulatory standards:
- Confirm the pilot is licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and holds a Letter of Agreement for the specific airspace.
- Ensure the pilot is rated for the specific aircraft and will be present when passengers are on board.
- Ask about the operator’s safety record and their experience flying in the area.
- Confirm that the operator follows all local and FAA regulations.
- Ask how the balloon will be tethered. (See Gear for Tethered Balloon Rides below for acceptable methods.)
- Ask if the operator participates in the FAA Wings program. This voluntary program indicates a pilot’s willingness to pursue elevated safety and professional standards.
- Do not accept rides from private balloon owners.
☐ Ensure all participants can safely enjoy the ride.
- Ask about basket height and access in advance.
- Confirm that all group members can comfortably see over the side of the basket, either by meeting the necessary height requirement or through available accommodations provided by the operator.
- Never lift a participant so they can see.
☐ Know local laws. Flight standards vary by country. Research regulations and enforcement before riding. Choose destinations with strict safety standards. Contact your Girl Scout council for guidance.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ 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
☐ Check the weather.
- Postpone or cancel if conditions are poor. Winds of as little as 5 mph can be risky—consult your balloon operator or pilot.
- Ensure no lightning storms are predicted within 50 miles.
☐ Dress appropriately. Make sure all participants are wearing:
- Layered clothing for the weather
- Comfortable pants to climb in and out of the basket
- No dangling items like scarves
☐ Check gear. The operator will provide and inspect the necessary safety gear. Look for:
- Tether system: Hot air balloons use a three-point tether; helium may have a single cable.
- Tethers: ropes or straps, in good condition
- Anchors: must be sturdy (poles, trees, or large vehicles), supporting thousands of pounds. If using a vehicle as an anchor, tethers must be attached to the frame, not the bumper. Small cars, trucks, or trailers are unsuitable.
- Rescue and safety gear: Includes fire extinguishers and weights, meeting industry standards for the aircraft type.
☐ Ensure riders follow safety rules. All participants must listen to the pilot’s orientation and:
- Stay clear of the balloon during inflation and deflation.
- Avoid ropes, anchors, and tethers.
- Follow pilot and crew instructions for boarding and exiting.
- Never lift someone to see over the basket.
- Keep feet firmly planted; do not lean over, sit, hop, or jump on the side rail.
- Use the buddy system and ensure adult supervision.
- Follow emergency instructions carefully.
Gear for Tethered Balloon Rides
As long as Girl Scouts are appropriately dressed, they shouldn’t need any other gear—the operator and pilot will supply whatever they need. Just show up and have fun!
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Tools—Hand and Power
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
Use varies by type of tool. Refer to the table below for specifics. |
No |
No |
|||||
Build, craft, make, and repair! Whether you’re crafting with hand tools or powering up for a bigger project, working with tools builds skill, confidence, and creativity. Measure, cut, drill, and shape—there’s no limit to what you can achieve!
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for essential supervision, transportation, first aid, and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Tools
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Note: See specific guidelines in the Pocket Knife and Jackknife SAC.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Assess maturity level. Participants must be old enough to understand safety procedures and handle equipment successfully and safely. See the chart below for guidance.
☐ Use expert advice and your good judgment if you’re considering tools not listed. Guidelines for similar tools may be applied.
☐ Verify expert/instructor knowledge and experience. At least one adult needs to be trained in proper tool usage, including safety precautions, equipment use, emergency procedures, and which grade levels are permitted to use which tools.
☐ Check with families to ensure interest and manage any concerns.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Arrange for protective equipment. The following may be relevant or appropriate:
- Eye goggles
- Earplugs or hearing-protective earmuffs
- Leather gloves
- Head protection
- Closed-toed or reinforced footwear
☐ Arrange for high-quality tools that are right for the job. Consider having extra tools handy in case the tool you had planned to use is damaged.
☐ Be clear on gear. Inform families whether tools will be provided or if they should bring their own. If bringing their own, specify acceptable types.
☐ 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.
- Closed-toed shoes
- Hair, clothing, or jewelry secured if it could be caught in equipment
☐ Inspect tools and surroundings for safety. Ensure that:
- Power tools have intact cords and plugs—no exposed wires.
- Tools have no damage, such as unexpected sharp edges.
- Tools are stored properly and are well-maintained.
- The shop area is free of trip hazards.
- A fire extinguisher is on hand.
- The area is well ventilated.
☐ 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.”
- Walk: Keep feet planted while working.
- Never carry tools in a pocket; use a toolbox or cart instead.
- Never carry tools up a ladder by hand; use a bucket or bag to hoist tools from the ground to a worker.
- When working at heights, secure tools with a lanyard to avoid dropping them, and/or mark off-limits areas so others are not underneath.
- For power tools:
- Never disable safety guards.
- Never carry a tool by its cord or hose.
- Never yank the cord or hose to disconnect the tool.
- Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil, and sharp edges. Keep them from being a trip hazard.
- Disconnect tools when not in use, or when changing bits or blades.
- Carry tools with fingers away from the power button to avoid accidental starts.
- Secure work with clamps or a vice so both hands are free to use the tool.
- Stay dry: Do not use power tools in wet conditions unless the tool is made for those conditions. Keep floors dry and clean to avoid electrical shock or slips.
- Use grounded (three-pronged) tools in three-pronged outlets only. Never allow the grounding plug to be removed. Use a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet or an assured grounding program.
☐ Make sure tool specifics are taught and practiced. Cover the following:
- How to power up a tool
- Body positioning and handling
- Safe and effective use
- Any rules specific to the type of tool
- How to care for the tool, such as cleaning, storing, or changing blades or belts
Gear for Tool Use
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful tool-using experience.
Essential equipment
- Tool
- Tool cleaning and maintenance items
Safety gear, as appropriate for the tool and use, such as:
- Eye protection
- Ear protection
Clothing and footwear
- Gloves
- Heavy apron
- Closed-toed shoes
- Hair secured
Tool table needs to go as an image here.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Travel / Trips
Travel Type See Progression Chart for descriptions* |
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Council approval required? |
Local field trip |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
Day trip |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
No |
Overnight |
D |
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Short trip |
|
B |
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Extended trip |
|
|
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
International trip |
|
|
|
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Individual trip |
|
|
|
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
* Travel experience within Girl Scouting is required at each level before progressing to the next.
Embark on unforgettable adventures with your fellow Girl Scouts! Whether it’s a local getaway with your group or an international leadership journey, Girl Scout travel sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and creates lifelong friendships. Explore, learn, and grow—one adenture at a time!
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for essential supervision, transportation, first aid, sleeping guidelines and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
The guidance below applies specifically to the travel journey itself. For safety guidelines and requirements related to activities during the trip—such as camping, outdoor cooking, aquatic adventures, horseback riding, or ferry rides—refer to the individual Safety Activity Checkpoints.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Travel/Trips
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
☐ Consider interest, readiness, and progression.
- Build experiences one step at a time, using the recommendations in the Travel Progression chart.
- Help your group reflect on experiences and future goals as you wrap up each trip.
- Assess individual and group readiness for travel by considering independence, flexibility, and curiosity about different cultures, as well as the group’s ability to work and live together. If the group is eager to travel but not quite ready, identify steps to build their skills and confidence. Readiness markers include:
- Comfort being away from parents/caregivers and home
- Adaptability to unfamiliar surroundings and situations
- Ability to make decisions for themselves and the group's well-being
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to navigate challenges
- Previous cross-cultural experiences, skills, interests, or language proficiency
☐ Learn about approval requirements. Check the SAC guidelines (below) and also contact your council office about:
- Required training
- Expectations for leader experience and Girl Scout progression
- Approval process and timeline
☐ Determine chaperone needs.
- Consider the number of adults you need, depending on the type of trip you are taking, the location and logistics, and the needs of Girl Scouts in your group.
- You may consider adding chaperones above the minimum required number for ratios, in case of emergency or to meet group needs; however, always prioritize including all Girl Scouts before adding additional adults, and ensure the Girl Scouts themselves are making decisions to include additional adults.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Make it girl-led. As Girl Scouts gain skill and experience, they should shift from simply voting on options to driving research and decisions. To guide them, you might ask:
- What is the purpose of our trip? What do we want to do, learn, or accomplish?
- How can we make sure everyone in our group can participate (schedules, cost, etc.)?
- When should we go? How much time do we need to plan and earn money?
- How long should our trip be?
- How much will the trip cost, and how will we earn the money?
- Where will we stay? (See Overnight Accommodations below.)
- What should we do along the way, and once we get there?
- Will we cook for ourselves or eat out?
- Should we find an organized Girl Scout event, use a tour company, or have a self-led adventure?
- How will we stay healthy and safe on our trip?
☐ Consider a behavior contract. Lead Girl Scouts to outline what behavior is expected of participants and the consequences of not following the agreement.
☐ Work together on big decisions.
- Let parents/caregivers know when you are starting to plan the trip and talk with them often about safety, cost, gear, and clothing needed, as well as chaperones who will accompany the group.
- Work with participants to set money-earning goals.
- Decide early if additional family members will be included.
- The addition of non-youth members, such as additional parents/guardians, should be a decision made by the Girl Scouts themselves.
- Ensure that all participating adults have a current background check.
- Siblings included should be the same approximate age as participating Girl Scouts. For example, an eight-year-old sibling of a Senior Girl Scout should not join an international trip.
- WAGGGS World Centres or your Girl Scout council may have other guidelines regarding additional travelers or age requirements.
☐ Plan transportation in advance.
- Follow the guidelines for Transporting Girl Scouts in the Safety Standards, including driver qualifications, rental and charter vehicles, and ride sharing.
- Follow the Offshore Passenger Vessels SAC for ferries and cruise ships.
☐ Hold a pre-trip orientation. Ensure everyone knows, if applicable:
- Transportation plans and timing
- Overnight accommodation arrangements
- Gear and clothing needed
- Geographic, weather, and other background information
- Buddy system arrangements and expectations
- What to do if separated from the group
- What to do if something significant is lost: money, passport, or luggage
- What to do if emergency help is needed
- How to perform basic first aid procedures
- How to practice cultural awareness and understand local customs
- How to stay safe and calm in crowded situations
☐ Line up first aid and health protocols.
- At least one adult must have 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, including over-the-counter remedies (with parent/guardian permission) in case ailments come up.
- Each traveler should carry basic first aid supplies, such as Band-Aids and moleskin. Teach Girl Scouts how to practice simple self-care and when to ask the first aider for help.
☐ Plan for contingencies.
- Especially for extended and international travel, budget additional funds in case unexpected changes occur. Examples include rising fuel costs, a canceled accommodation, a missed train, or an illness that requires quarantine or recuperation.
- Recruit a trusted person to be an in-town contact.
- Provide the contact with a roster of travelers, contact info for families, and all travel plans.
- Use them to relay updates and get help, in case of emergency or urgent changes in plans.
- See insurance section below, especially for international travel.
☐ Remind participants about what to wear.
- What to bring will vary greatly based on length of trip, expected weather, planned activities, etc. Work with the group to develop a sensible list. Insist on comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the elements.
- If there are limitations on luggage type, size, or weight, let participants and families know early.
- Consider a gear check to confirm everyone has items that comply with logistical needs.
- Ensure that participants can be responsible for their own belongings.
Day of the Activity
☐ Review basics with participants at the start of the trip.
- What to do if separated from the group, and what to do in relevant emergency situations
- How to stay safe and healthy
- Behavior expectations
- Schedule and logistics
☐ Include time each day for reflection.
- Reflection time allows Girl Scouts to process their experience and learn life lessons.
- Reflection time also gives Girl Scouts space to share feelings and can help everyone feel safe and comfortable as the trip continues.
Overnight Accommodations
Use the following guidelines when considering overnight accommodations.
- ☐ Evaluate lodging options. Consider safety, cost, amenities, distance to planned sights or transportation, privacy, and parking. Pay attention to online reviews and ratings and read comments. Consider:
- Girl Scout camps and other properties Girl Scout councils operate; rent for a weekend or as a stopover during travel.
- National, state, or local parks where cabins or campgrounds are available; see the Camping SACs for recommendations.
- Hostels that provide dorm-style space so your group can stay together
- Hotels—consider suites and adjoining rooms to enhance supervision, and avoid motels with doors opening to the outside.
- World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) World Centres or member organizations in other countries
- Short-term (or vacation) rentals such as Airbnb and VRBO. Before booking, ensure that:
- Use of the space is exclusive for your group; no other renters or the owner will have access.
- Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers are installed (noted in amenities section on booking sites)
- There are substantial, positive visitor reviews of the home and host. Do not book places with negative, few, or no reviews. Look for Airbnb “Superhost” status or similar listings.
- The host’s profile or identity are verified in the booking app. You can request this, and may be asked to do the same as a renter.
- The local host or manager is available for immediate needs. Share their contact info with a trusted person not on the trip.
☐ Make plans to follow guidelines for safe sleeping and bathroom arrangements. Ensure participants and parents/guardians understand the arrangements.
☐ Check accommodations on arrival.
- No matter what housing you book, inspect premises with your group immediately. Let the front desk or host know of any deficiencies.
- If you find a property to be unsafe, and there is no immediate resolution, move to another location.
- Ensure that:
- All points of entry are secure and lockable
- Evacuation routes are clear of obstructions
- Exit points, stairs, and fire escapes are identified and shown to group members
- Basic safety systems are in place, as required by law for that type of building, such as fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors
- Everyone knows how to contact emergency services, such as 911 in the U.S.; numbers and access to phones will be different in foreign countries.
- Provided Wi-Fi and phones are working properly
- Name an exterior meeting place in case of evacuation.
International Travel
Use the following guidelines when considering international travel.
☐ Check U.S. State Department warnings for international travel before deciding where to go. Monitor status during planning and before departure.
- Confirm the travel advisory level for countries you’re considering. The State Department classifies travel advisories with four alert levels. This chart includes Girl Scouts’ expectations for travel:
State Department advisory level |
Girl Scout expectations |
|
Level 1 |
Exercise Normal Precautions |
Travel permitted |
Level 2 |
Exercise Increased Precautions |
Travel permitted; follow warnings |
Level 3 |
Reconsider Travel |
See “Reconsider” section, below |
Level 4 |
Do Not Travel |
Travel not permitted under any circumstances |
- Pay attention to in-country travel alerts for the region you’re interested in. A country may be classified as Level 2, but a particular state or region may be classified as Level 3.
- Reconsider if your destination is Level 3. Follow these steps in order:
- Deeply consider selecting a different location.
- Contact the host destination facility and ask if they are aware of the travel alert level, and what extra security measures are in place.
- Inform participants and families, and determine if there is still a compelling interest in traveling to this location. Get parents’/guardians’ explicit written approval to travel to the location.
- Talk with your council’s safety or risk representative to fully understand the specific concerns at play. Request approval in writing. They may need to consult in-house or outside legal counsel. Confirm approval from your council’s senior management.
☐ Register with the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). You’ll receive updates about safety, and the State Department will know when and where you are traveling.
☐ Check the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) Travelers Health page for disease notices and vaccine or screening requirements for your destination, and for return to the United States.
☐ Get special consent for travel with minors. In addition to Girl Scout written parent/guardian permission, pay attention to documents needed to travel with minors. A notarized letter of consent from both parents and any custody documents may be required. Check with the embassy of your foreign destination and with your Girl Scout council office to see what you need.
☐ Line up insurance.
- Insurance that provides medical care for injuries and illness is required—and provided by Girl Scouts of the USA with membership. Most U.S. healthcare insurance will not cover international expenses. Girl Scouts of the USA partners with Mutual of Omaha for Activity Accident Insurance for international trips, Plan 3PI. Coverage includes emergency assistance and repatriation (evacuation of a severely ill or injured person). Coverage is automatic and at no cost to participants traveling on approved Girl Scout trips.
- Consider commercial cancellation insurance. This type of insurance can help cover expenses due to unexpected challenges that can occur before or during a trip. Coverage can include canceled flights, lost luggage, weather disruptions, and similar expenses. The group or individual families may decide to enroll to protect the significant investment in international travel. Read the fine print carefully, as plans vary widely. The Mutual of Omaha plan described above is a medical plan and does not cover these travel-related expenses.
☐ Share information with families. Share and explain the above information. Regularly keep parents/guardians up to date as plans progress.
Individual Travel
Girl Scouts participating in individual travel experiences, such as Destinations, will receive information directly from the event organizer. The above guidelines may be helpful in planning transit to or from organized events.
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
Tubing (Floating)
Daisy |
Brownie |
Junior |
Cadette |
Senior |
Ambassador |
Is Prior Council |
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Experience Required? |
|
|
J |
C |
S |
A |
Yes |
Yes |
Whether you’re drifting with the current or bouncing over gentle rapids, float tubing is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Soak up the sun, splash with friends, and let the water carry you to great memories!
General Checkpoints
Refer to the Safety Standards for essential supervision, transportation, first aid, and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
Learn More
Encourage all adults to complete the free, online American Red Cross Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers training.
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Tubing
Follow these basic reminders for each phase of planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
Note: This entry refers to free-floating tubing. For towed tubing, see the Water Skiing, Wakeboarding, and Towed Tubing SAC.
Decision-Making Phase
☐ Find a safe place to go tubing.
- Choose calm, slow-moving bodies of water:
- Rivers up to Class II
- Artificial “lazy rivers” at water parks; see Amusement and Water Parks and Swimming SACs.
- Calm lakes or ponds
- Check river run classifications and route information at American Whitewater’s interactive map.
☐ Factor in your return trip. Since river tubing is a one-way journey, explore return options in advance:
- Check for shuttle services provided by outfitters or local parks.
- Arrange transportation if no shuttle is available.
- Follow transportation guidelines in the Safety Standards to ensure a safe and organized return.
☐ Identify an expert.
- Arrange for instruction by an adult with experience teaching and supervising tubing for the ages involved.
- Engage an instructor with training suited to your location and conditions. Consider the following training:
- American Canoe Association (ACA)—various certification levels
- Girl Scouts Small Craft Safety Course
- American Red Cross Lifeguarding with Waterfront Module; American Red Cross Lifeguarding for Water Parks is acceptable for artificial lazy rivers.
- Documented experience per your council’s guidelines
- Maintain proper instructor–student ratio per the instructor’s training.
- Ensure instructor has firsthand knowledge of the hazards and conditions at the tubing location.
Planning and Preparation Phase
☐ Be clear on gear.
- Review Gear for Tubing (Floating) 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 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 in a waterproof container.
☐ Assess swimming ability. Strong swimming skills are important for tubers’ safety and confidence.
- Advance swim assessment is recommended to avoid disappointment.
- Same-day assessments may be conducted if necessary.
- If a swim assessment is 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.
- Check water and air temperature.
- Never go tubing during a storm.
- Monitor river conditions, as they change daily.
- Check water quality reports on the EPA’s How’s My Waterway? interactive map, especially after rainfall.
☐ 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.
☐ Inspect tubes. Ensure tubes are properly inflated and that all handles, ropes, and other gear are in good condition.
☐ Instructors must be well-positioned for supervision.
- Supervision from shore is only allowed on flat water near shore or at water parks.
- Instructors must accompany the group on moving rivers.
☐ Ensure everyone learns and practices the basics.
- Tube entry, launching, and landing techniques
- Self-rescue techniques in case the tuber falls out or capsizes
- Signaling for help
- Staying seated in fast-moving water
- How to read and manage rapids and how to float through if separated from the tube
- How to secure tubes—if tubes are rafted (tied) together, they are tied snugly, and long ends are secured to avoid snagging on obstacles
- Any site-specific instructions
☐ 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.
Gear for Tubing (Floating)
Make sure Girl Scouts have everything they need for a safe and successful tubing experience.
Essential equipment
Tube for each person; handles and/or grab rope preferred.
Safety gear
- Coast Guard–approved life jacket, 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)
Clothing and footwear
- Non-cotton clothing or swimwear (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
Download the checkpoints for this activity as a PDF.
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