Safety Activity Checkpoints | Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa

Safety Activity

Checkpoints

Safety guidelines for Girl Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA)

and Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa approved activities.

2024–2026 Edition

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Introduction: Standard Safety Guidelines ........................................................................................................................................................ 6 
Understanding Which Activities Are Not Permitted ................................................................................................................................ 14 
Chartered Aircraft Trips and Aviation............................................................................................................................................................ 15 
Other Actions Girl Scouts and Volunteers Should Not Take ................................................................................................................. 15 
First Aid........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 16 
Overall Health, Well-Being, and Inclusivity.................................................................................................................................................. 18 
Transporting Girl Scouts ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 21 
Troop Meeting Space.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 23 
Activities at a Glance .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 25 
How to Use Safety Activity Checkpoints ........................................................................................................................................................ 34 

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Aerial Fitness ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 35 
Amusement Parks ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 37 
Animal Interaction .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 39 
Backpacking ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 43 
Bicycling....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 46 
Camping ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 50 
Climbing and Adventure Sports—Master Progression Chart .............................................................................................................. 54 
Challenge Courses ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 56 
Climbing and Rappelling ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 59 
Recreational Tree Climbing................................................................................................................................................................................. 63 
Zip Lining..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 65 
Community Clean-Ups ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 67 
Girl Scouts Computer Internet Safety Pledge .............................................................................................................................................. 74 
Virtual Troop Meetings ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 75 
Cookie and Product Programs ........................................................................................................................................................................... 79 
Cross-Country Skiing.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 83 
Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding ................................................................................................................................................................ 85 
Fencing ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 87 
Fishing and Ice Fishing .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 89 
Fishing and Ice Fishing Checkpoints ............................................................................................................................................................... 89 
Ice Safety Quiz ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 92 
Geocaching .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 93 
Go-Karting ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 95 
Hiking ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 99 
Horseback Riding .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 101 
Ice Skating and Roller Skating......................................................................................................................................................................... 104 
Ice Safety Quiz ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 106 
Indoor Skydiving ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 107 
Indoor Trampoline ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 109 
Inflatables................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 111 
Miscellaneous Activities .................................................................................................................................................................................... 113 
Offshore Water Vessels ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 114 

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Orienteering ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 118 
Outdoor Cooking ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 120 
Paddling and Rowing Sports—Master Progression Chart ................................................................................................................. 125 
Canoeing ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 132 
Corcl Boats ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 137 
Row Boating ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 150 
Stand-Up Paddleboarding ................................................................................................................................................................................. 154 
Whitewater Rafting.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 158 
Parades and Other Large Gatherings ........................................................................................................................................................... 162 
Pocket Knife and Jackknife Safety ................................................................................................................................................................. 164 
Girl Scout Pocket Knife/Jackknife Safety Pledge .................................................................................................................................... 165 
Rocketry / Model Rocketry .............................................................................................................................................................................. 166 
Sailing......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 169 
Scuba Diving............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 172 
Sledding and Tobogganing ............................................................................................................................................................................... 176 
Snorkeling ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 178 
Snowshoeing ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 181 
Surfing ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 185 
Swimming ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 188 
Sample Swim Assessment—Documented Verification of Completion ......................................................................................... 192 
Target and Shooting Sports—Master Progression Chart.................................................................................................................... 193 
Archery ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 194 
Ax, Knife, and Hatchet Throwing ................................................................................................................................................................... 197 
Slingshot ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 200 
Shooting Sports/Guns......................................................................................................................................................................................... 203 
Tethered Hot Air Balloon Rides...................................................................................................................................................................... 206 
Tools—Hand and Power ................................................................................................................................................................................... 209 
Master Tool Chart ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 211 
Tubing ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 219 
Waterskiing and Wakeboarding .................................................................................................................................................................... 222 
Windsurfing ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 225 
 

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Introduction: Standard Safety Guidelines

Safety Activity Checkpoints (SAC) provides the standard safety guidelines for Girl Scouts of the United States of

America (GSUSA) and Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa’s approved activities.

GSUSA, local councils, and other units holding a credential—including USA Girl Scouts Overseas (USAGSO)—shall

be responsible for seeing that all activities are planned and carried out in a manner that considers the health,

safety, and general well-being of all participants in accordance with these standard safety guidelines.

In this section, you will find GSUSA’s standard safety guidelines, by topic, which apply to all Girl Scout activities.

Please read and become familiar with all topics in this section.

Throughout Safety Activity Checkpoints, several individual activities, such as Paddling and Rowing, Climbing and

Adventure, and Target Sports, are categorized under related sections to provide continuity as well as grade level

and skill progression information.

Standard Safety Guidelines are to be used in conjunction with the specific, individual activity’s safety checkpoints

along with reasonable common-sense adjustments to ensure a safe and positive experience for Girl Scout

members. The intent of providing these standard safety guidelines is to establish a checklist for success and to

foster confident leadership.

Adult Supervision

Girl Scouts has a strict standard that whenever Girl Scouts meet, whether in person or virtually, there are to

be at least two unrelated, registered, and Girl Scout–approved adults who have been background checked,

and one of whom is female, supervising Girl Scout members. A registered and approved adult volunteer is one

who has passed a background check and has been through the council’s volunteer onboarding and training

process. The two adult volunteers must not be related to each other (for example, not a sibling, spouse, domestic

partner, parent, child, or anyone who would be considered a family member) and who do not live in the same

residence.

This requirement applies to every Girl Scout gathering including troop meetings (in person and virtual), day

trips, camp, sleep-away travel, special events, activities, and projects. Members should be advised of this policy so

that they can report to the council if there is a violation.

Troop leaders must always be adults. Youth or youth members are not permitted to substitute for adult

supervision. This rule applies to every Girl Scout gathering including troop meetings (in person and virtual), day

trips, camp, sleep-away travel, events, activities, and projects. There are no exceptions to this rule.

There are different specific adult-to-youth ratio requirements for Girl Scout troop meetings as compared to events

outside of the regular Girl Scout troop meeting such as outings, activities, camping, and travel. Activities and travel

outside of the regular troop meeting space require more adult supervision.

For Troop Meetings

The adult-to-youth ratio means a minimum of two registered, approved, adult volunteers who are unrelated,

including one female, for up to this number of Girl Scouts:

• 12 Daisy Girl Scouts

• 20 Brownie Girl Scouts

• 25 Junior Girl Scouts

• 25 Cadette Girl Scouts

• 30 Senior Girl Scouts

• 30 Ambassador Girl Scouts

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There should be one extra registered, approved, adult volunteer for every additional:

• 1–6 Daisy Girl Scouts

• 1–8 Brownie Girl Scouts

• 1–10 Junior Girl Scouts

• 1–12 Cadette Girl Scouts

• 1–15 Senior Girl Scouts

• 1–15 Ambassador Girl Scouts

Adult Volunteer-to-Youth Ratios

Girl Scout

Volunteer-to-Youth

Ratios

Group Meetings

Events, Travel, and Camping

Two

unrelated

volunteers (at least

one of whom is

female) for up to

this number of

youth:

One

additional volunteer

to each additional:

Two

unrelated

volunteers (at least

one of whom is

female) for up to

this number of

youths:

One

additional volunteer to

each additional:

Girl Scout Daises

(Grades K–1)

1–6

1–4

Girl Scout Brownies

(Grades 2–3)

1–8

1–6

Girl Scout Juniors

(Grades 4–5)

1–10

1–8

Girl Scout Cadettes

(Grades 6–8)

1–12

1–10

Girl Scout Seniors

(Grades 9–10)

1–15

1–12

Girl Scout Ambassadors

(Grades 11–12)

1–15

1–12

For Outings, Activities, Travel, and Camping

The adult-to-youth ratio means a minimum of two registered, approved, adult volunteers who are unrelated,

including one female, for up to this number of Girl Scouts:

• 6 Daisy Girl Scouts

• 12 Brownie Girl Scouts

• 16 Junior Girl Scouts

• 20 Cadette Girl Scouts

• 24 Senior Girl Scouts

• 24 Ambassador Girl Scouts

There should be one extra registered, approved, adult volunteer for every additional:

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• 1–4 Daisy Girl Scouts

• 1–6 Brownie Girl Scouts

• 1–8 Junior Girl Scouts

• 1–10 Cadette Girl Scouts

• 1–12 Senior Girl Scouts

• 1–12 Ambassador Girl Scouts

Some high-adventure activities may require more adult-to-youth supervision than stated above. For those

activities, the individual activity’s safety activity checkpoints will provide the specific adult-to-youth supervision

ratios. Remember, some activities are less safe for younger members, particularly Daisies and Brownies. Younger

Girl Scout members may not be permitted to participate based on their age, as appropriate, and this will be

specified on the individual activity’s safety activity checkpoints. In cases where younger girl participation is an

option, but only under certain conditions, this is indicated on the first page of the individual activity’s safety

activity checkpoints.

Note: For mixed-grade level troops (Multi-Level Troops), use the adult-to-youth ratio for the lowest grade level in the

troop. For example, if the troop consists of Daisies and Brownies, the Daisy adult-to-youth ratio should be followed.

Activity Council Approval Requirement. On the first page of each individual activity’s safety activity checkpoints,

you will see a field indicating whether your Girl Scout council requires you to have prior council approval to

perform the activity. Council prior approval is required for those activities that are rated as high risk by Girl Scouts’

national insurance carriers. A council may approve an activity once for the duration of the year or require

individual approval each time the activity takes place. This is a council decision as local norms and laws vary from

state to state. The three council approval requirement types are:

• Required. You must check with your Girl Scout council for prior approval.

• Not Required. You do not need to check with your Girl Scout council for prior approval.

• May Be Required. Your Girl Scout council will determine if prior approval is required.

Activities Not Listed in Safety Activity Checkpoints. In a challenging, learn-by-doing environment like Girl Scouts,

it is only natural that Girl Scout members will sometimes want to take part in activities that are not specifically

addressed in Safety Activity Checkpoints. If safety checkpoints are not provided for a specific activity in Safety

Activity Checkpoints, the first step is always to contact your Girl Scout council to make sure your council approves

of the activity.

Be sure to have a plan or process in place for addressing and handling requests for activities that are not

specifically listed in Safety Activity Checkpoints. When considering activities not specifically listed in Safety Activity

Checkpoints:

• Consult with your Girl Scout council for clarification and approval in advance. Your Girl Scout council

may or may not permit the activity. If your council does approve the activity, they may direct you to a

specific vendor or facility or advise you to stay away from other vendors or facilities.

• Investigate whether the activity is similar to another activity and if the safety activity checkpoints for that

activity can easily translate and apply to an approved activity, then follow those checkpoints.

• Consider whether the proposed activity requires any additional expert supervision or special certification

for the instructor.

• Think about the quality of the experience in terms of how participation ties to Girl Scouts’ Five

Outcomes, the long-term positive outcomes Girl Scout members receive in Girl Scouting.

Selecting an Activity to Do with Girl Scout Members. When considering what types of activities to do, whether

specifically listed in Safety Activity Checkpoints or not, be thoughtful and intentional when selecting the activity and

be mindful of the long-term positive outcomes that Girl Scout members receive through Girl Scouting. Think about

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how participating in the activity ties to at least one of the Girl Scouts Five Outcomes. Girl Scouts has proven to help

girls thrive in five ways:

Strong sense of self. Girls have confidence in themselves and their abilities and form positive identities.

Positive values. Girls act ethically, honestly, and responsibly and show concern for others.

Challenge seeking. Girls take appropriate risks, try things even though they might fail, and learn from their

mistakes.

Healthy relationships. Girls develop and maintain healthy relationships by communicating their feelings

directly and resolving conflict constructively.

Community problem solving. Girls contribute to the world in purposeful and meaningful ways, learn how to

identify problems in the community, and create “action plans” to solve them.

Activities chosen should work towards intentionally helping Girl Scout members be successful in these key areas.

As part of the planning process, consider how and why the activity selected connects to Girl Scouts Five Outcomes.

Make it girl-led by sharing these outcomes with them and engaging them in the activity selection and planning

process.

Infectious Disease Safety in Girl Scouts

The health and safety of our members is always Girl Scouts’ highest priority. Recognize that communicable

diseases, including COVID-19, have always presented risks for Girl Scout members to handle. Following Centers for

Disease Control standards along with guidance from local jurisdictions is expected. Be prepared to monitor

evolving health matters.

Have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

Keeping to the Girl Scout motto, “Be Prepared,” proper preparation is the key to success. An important thing to

consider, before heading out on a trip or to an activity, is an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Volunteers can review

their troop’s EAP with participants as a learning experience for them, to the extent it makes sense according to

their age and maturity.

For the adult volunteer, it is important to think about and document an EAP for troop meetings and activities to

ensure you are prepared in the event of an accident or injury. When creating an EAP, think through scenarios of

what can go wrong, such as physical injury, severe weather, fire, intruders, missing persons, or sudden illness. This

basic step is invaluable. The key elements included in an effective risk management plan are:

Identify the type of emergency:

• Medical: A member becomes suddenly ill.

• Accidental injury: A member is hurt during an activity.

• Weather-related crisis or challenging environment: As with backpacking. Always pay attention to

weather so that the activity can be rescheduled if there is a severe storm or weather-related risk.

• Fire: Become aware of all entrances and exits, and alternative exit routes.

• Missing or lost member.

• Mitigate and minimize the damage, injury, or time element in seeking help: Know how far the activity

is from the nearest Emergency Medical Service (EMS).

o If EMS is more than 30 minutes away, an Advanced First Aider should always be present,

preferably with Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) credentials.

o If EMS is less than 30 minutes away, a General First Aider should be present with Girl Scout

members.

• If more than 200 people at an event, an Advanced First Aider should be added to the General First Aider

for every 200 people.

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• Make sure emergency response vehicles can access the area where the activity is being held. If an

emergency vehicle cannot access the site, notify either local EMS, park services, or other authorities ahead

of time and tell them where you will be, what you will be doing, and how many members are with you.

Respond once having confirmed the properly trained first aiders are present:

• Immediately engage the first aider to the accident scene involving an illness, accident, or injury.

• Notify and coordinate the arrival of emergency medical services or law enforcement.

• Contact all relevant parties:

o Parents or legal guardians

o Council staff

o Law enforcement

o Property owner or facility manager

Key Components of an Effective Emergency Action Plan

• Contact list. Create a chart, table, or simple list for all participants, including adults, with parent and legal

guardian contact phone numbers as well as key emergency phone numbers in addition to 911, such as the

nearest hospital, medical center, law enforcement office, or emergency transportation. Share this

information with a trusted individual, so that all information does not rest with one person. Consider a

hard copy for quick reference in an emergency.

• Roles and responsibilities. Keep predetermined and established emergency role assignments showing

who does what in the event of an emergency. For example, the leader stays with Girl Scout members while

the co-leader calls for help and coordinates the arrival of emergency services and notifies the parents, or

vice versa. Agree on this ahead of time so that you are calm and prepared if the worst occurs. Also think

through what you will do if the injured person is one of the adults.

• Exit strategy. Be aware of all emergency exits and/or evacuation plans beforehand. Identify and

communicate alternative exit routes with all present.

• Meeting place. Determine and communicate a prearranged meeting place (designated spot) in the event

the group becomes separated, or a Girl Scout member should become lost.

• Communication method. Have a method of emergency communication that works. If camping or

backpacking, consider a whistle or horn as an emergency call-out. Make sure to inform Girl Scout members

that this is the sound of an emergency. When they hear this sound, they know to go to the designated spot.

If there is cell service at the activity site, save all contact names and numbers, including those for the

appropriate authorities, in your mobile phones before the activity takes place.

Activity Preparation. Communicate with your Girl Scout council and caregivers about the activity, including

details about safety precautions and any appropriate clothing or supplies that may be necessary. Follow council

procedures for activity approval, certificates of insurance, and guidelines about general health examinations. Girl

Scouts are key to activity planning. Keeping their grade level abilities in mind, encourage them to take proactive

leadership roles in organizing details of the activity.

Review Safety Activity Checkpoints with Instructors. Standard Safety Guidelines and the individual activity’s

safety activity checkpoints should be reviewed with the vendor, facility, camp, or your Girl Scout council as

appropriate to determine if the safety checkpoints can be complied. Take any questions or issues with safety

compliance to your Girl Scout council for guidance and next steps.

Itinerary and Key Contacts. Give an itinerary to a contact person at home. Call the contact person upon departure

and return. Create a list that includes Girl Scout members’ parent/caregiver contact information, council contacts,

and emergency services contacts. Keep this list on hand or post in an easily accessible location. Emergency and

parent contact information should be saved to an adult’s mobile phone on the trip and be provided to the contact

person at home.

Organizing Gear

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• Safety Gear includes clothing and equipment members will need to safely take part in the activity. These

items are necessary to ensure safety. Always opt to take the safety equipment offered by an organization or

facility, even if it is not specifically listed in the individual activity’s safety activity checkpoints. If the facility

offers helmets, always accept the use of helmets, and have members wear them.

• Required Gear simply means activity-specific gear necessary to participate in the activity. For example, for

skiing, members will need skis, boots, and poles, or otherwise plan for rental equipment.

• Additional Gear may include items that support a safe and healthy outdoor learning experience. Always

take additional gear into consideration when planning an outdoor activity or trip in addition to the safety

gear required for the specific activity. These are items that often make the experience more comfortable.

Recommended items, based on Girl Scout experience, include:

o Layers of clothing for wintertime or activities on or by the water or mountains, where temperatures

or wind can change dramatically within a short period of time

o Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, sun visor, and lip balm

o Change of clothes for water-related activities or those involving dirt or mud, such as spelunking

o Comfortable shoes and socks if hiking or spending long days outside in order to prevent ticks and

blisters

o Watch, compass, and map(s)

o Insect repellent

o Towels for waterfront, pool, and paddling activities

o Bottle of drinking water and healthy snacks

o Backpacks (Girl Scout members carry their own gear and supplies)

Instructor Credibility. Verify instructor knowledge, experience, and maturity. Ensure the volunteers or onsite

instructors possess the proper skills, knowledge, training, and certification, or documented experience required to

meet your council’s guidelines and as outlined in the individual activity’s safety activity checkpoints for the

approved activity.

With respect to instructing and safeguarding children, maturity level and years of experience can positively impact

the support needed for volunteers to safeguard Girl Scout members. For example, while the legal definition of an

adult lifeguard is 18, qualified lifeguards of 21 years of age or over are preferred whenever possible.

Visiting and Participating Adults. Occasionally, friends and family members join Girl Scout outings or trips, or

experts in a subject may be invited to troop meetings to help work on badges. Verify with your Girl Scout council

any specific requirements when adults attend Girl Scout gatherings. Arrange for background checks for

participating adults or episodic volunteers. Depending on your jurisdiction, there may be specific background

check, fingerprinting, or child abuse prevention training requirements for adults who will regularly or periodically

attend Girl Scout gatherings, have shared oversight over members, participate in an overnight stay, handle money,

or drive youth members.

Facility General Insurance. Commercial general liability insurance protects the Girl Scout organization. The

facility or vendor that hosts your troop event (for example, a riding stable, a hotel, or a bus company) should carry

general liability insurance and auto liability insurance when motor vehicles are involved. A facility that carries

valid general liability insurance has almost always been examined for risk by its insurance carrier. If a facility or

vendor does not carry general liability insurance, it’s a red flag. It may not be safe, so it would be best to select

another facility or vendor.

When your Girl Scout council requires you to provide documented evidence of insurance, ask the facility for a

certificate of insurance for your records. Be aware that some places either do not or cannot provide a certificate of

insurance to all customers, only provide a certificate of insurance when a group is very large, or if the group plans

to pay a certain amount in advance. Still, the conversation will give you an idea of whether the facility is adequately

insured, and you can consult your council representative for next steps.

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When planning to use a written contract with a facility or when considering a new vendor, remember to consult

with your Girl Scout council for the proper insurance requirements and to see if your council uses an approved

vendor list. Check to confirm the certificate of insurance you will be obtaining validates the insurance limits

outlined in your contract or agreement before submitting a contract to your council for signature.

Activity Accident Insurance. Activity accident insurance is supplemental health insurance that protects

registered Girl Scout members. Registered members are automatically covered under activity accident insurance

when participating in all Girl Scout events and activities. Invited non-member participants are also covered. When

planning extended trips, always consult with your Girl Scout council to see if extra activity accident insurance is

needed. International trips always require Activity Accident Insurance Plan 3PI.

Leave No Trace. Girl Scouts has a long tradition of leaving an area better than we found it. Search the web for tips

on environmental responsibility and remember our principle of Leave No Trace. Doing so will teach Girl Scout

members responsibility and safeguard your troop and local Girl Scout council from complications or issues

involving the use of public property.

Weather Conditions. Always monitor the weather in the days preceding an activity or trip. Check the local

weather report on the day of the trip. For circumstances in which forecasted weather could be a risk to safety,

consider scheduling alternatives and options. In the case of severe wind, lightning, hail, ice, snowstorm, flood

warnings due to heavy rain, or a hurricane or tropical storm, make contingency plans for itineraries and

transportation. Reschedule the event if the weather report is severe. Adhere to public safety announcements

concerning staying indoors or evacuating the area. In extremely hot weather, do outdoor activities in the morning

and late afternoon hours and, during the hottest time of day, stay in a shaded area or inside with air conditioning.

On extremely hot days, it is important to plan for easy access to plenty of drinking water to prevent heat

exhaustion and dehydration. If extreme weather or temperature conditions prevent a trip, be prepared with a

backup plan or alternative activity.

Buddy System. For trips and activities, it is helpful for members of similar age to pair up as partners. Each Girl

Scout member is responsible for staying with their buddy throughout a trip or activity. A buddy can warn their

partner of danger, lend a helping hand, or get immediate assistance when the situation warrants it. All Girl Scout

members are encouraged to stay near the group so if someone is injured or not feeling well, there are others,

including an adult, close by to seek help.

Annual Permission Slips. Annual permission slips are parental or legal guardian consent forms for attendance at

regular troop meetings throughout the year. If annual permissions are practiced in your council, in addition to

specific activity permission slips, volunteers should keep copies of all permission forms for all Girl Scout members.

Permission Slips for Day Trips and Activities. It is imperative to secure a signed permission slip from a child’s

parent or guardian for any trip or special activity outside the troop meeting space. This applies to all Girl Scout

members under the age of 18. Always keep a copy of these permissions. In most cases, one parental consent or one

legal guardian is legally acceptable. However, there may be circumstances regarding a custody situation or a

standard in your council where dual parental consent is required. For international trips, written consent is

generally required from both parents/legal guardians. If there is a question about single versus dual parental or

dual guardian consent, consult your Girl Scout council and they can consult local or state laws for specific local

guidance.

Overnight Trips. Prepare Girl Scout members to be away from home by involving them in planning the activity or

event so they know what to expect. On trips where male volunteers are part of the group, it is not appropriate for

them to sleep in the same space as girl members. Always support and maintain a single-sex atmosphere for

sleeping quarters. Men may participate only when separate sleeping quarters and bathrooms are available for their

use. Men should not be in a situation where they must walk through Girl Scouts’ sleeping quarters to enter or exit

their sleeping quarters or access restrooms. In some circumstances, such as a museum or mall overnight, with

hundreds of Girl Scouts, this type of accommodation may not be possible. If this is the case, men do not supervise

girls in the sleeping area of the event and the adult-to-youth ratio is adjusted accordingly.

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An exception is made for family members during events such as parent-daughter or family overnights, where one

family may sleep together in an area specifically designated to accommodate families. Also please make note of the

following:

• Each participant has their own bed.

• Parent/guardian permission must be obtained if youth members are to share a bed.

• Youth members and adults do not share a bed; some councils make exceptions for family members.

• It is not mandatory that an adult sleep in the sleeping area with youth members.

• If an adult female does share the sleeping area, there must always be at least two unrelated adult females

present.

Vacation Rentals. See About Travel/Trips for specific safety checkpoints when utilizing Airbnb, VRBO, and

HomeAway. There are specific steps that must be followed when utilizing these privately owned property rentals,

steps that are not necessarily taken with traditional commercially owned and operated properties such as hotels.

Modeling the Right Behavior. Adult volunteers should adhere to the Girl Scout Promise and Law. When spending

time with Girl Scout members or representing Girl Scouts, do not consume alcohol, smoke, vape, or use foul

language. Always obey the law, for example, by not texting while driving or jaywalking.

Drugs and Alcohol. Volunteers and adults may not purchase, consume, possess, or be under the influence of

alcohol, recreational drugs/substances, prescription drugs, or over-the-counter medications which impair

performance or judgment while participating in Girl Scout–sanctioned activities, in the presence of Girl Scout

members, while conducting Girl Scout business, or in Girl Scout branded clothing. Alcohol or any substance which

may impair one’s judgment must never be used by volunteers, adult members, or any other adult in the presence of

a youth member, or immediately prior to a Girl Scout activity.

Alcoholic beverages may be served to and consumed by adults of legal age at Girl Scout events, when youth

members are not present, and when approved by the council’s Board of Directors or the council’s Chief Executive

Officer.

Youth members are not permitted to attend events where alcohol is being served and consumed. However, with

prior council approval, youth members may be permitted to attend functions at locations where alcohol is

incidentally being purchased by adults and then taken away to be consumed elsewhere, away from youth

members. For example, a council may approve an event taking place at an arena, stadium, theme park, movie

theater, or places where alcoholic beverages are sold at a concession stand and taken away to be consumed.

Firearms. Firearms and/or weapons are prohibited at any Girl Scout activity and on Girl Scout owned or leased

property except when in the possession of a sworn officer of the law, council-authorized property staff, a certified

instructor, licensed wildlife control personnel, and/or trained adult while conducting a council-approved Girl Scout

program activity. Volunteers and adults do not carry ammunition or firearms in the presence of Girl Scout

members, unless given special permission by your council for target sport activities.

Online Safety. Instruct all Girl Scout members never to put their full names, location, or contact information

online, engage in virtual conversations with strangers, or arrange in-person meetings with online contacts. On

group websites, publish first names only and never divulge members’ location or contact information. Teach

members the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge and ask them to read it, understand it, discuss it, and commit to

following it.

Money Earning Activities. Safety is an important consideration during money earning activities, including Girl

Scout Cookie Program sales and other council-sponsored product sales. During Girl Scout product programs, you

are responsible for the safety of Girl Scout members, money, and products. In addition, a wide variety of

organizations, causes, and fundraisers may appeal to Girl Scouts to serve as their labor force. When representing

Girl Scouts, members cannot raise money for other organizations, participate in money earning activities that

represent partisan politics, or are not Girl Scout-approved product sales and efforts. It is imperative that Girl

Scouts do not partake in anything that can be construed as unrelated business income. This is essential to protect

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our organization’s 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. If there is a questionable circumstance, consult your Girl Scout

council.

Volunteer Essentials. A key resource for volunteers in Girl Scouting is Volunteer Essentials. While Safety Activity

Checkpoints focuses on safety guidance and parameters, Volunteer Essentials addresses an array of topics such as

Engaging Girls and Families, Troop Management, Product Program, Troop Finances, and the Leader’s Guide to

Success. All Girl Scout volunteers are instructed to review, understand, and practice the principles and standards in

both Volunteer Essentials and Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Understanding Which Activities Are Not Permitted

After being thoroughly investigated by Girl Scouts leadership, some activities are clearly classified as “not

permitted.” Each sport or activity on the “not permitted” list is evaluated annually with respect to safety factors,

council feedback, insurability, and accident history. These activities pose a high risk of bodily injury, require

extensive prior experience to safely participate, or may require a driver’s license, such as ATVs. Activities with a

poor accident history based on loss data gathered from various industries are not approved and therefore “not

permitted.” The purpose of prohibiting certain activities is first and foremost to protect Girl Scout members, but

also to safeguard the financial and reputational well-being of your council and the Girl Scout organization.

GSUSA does not approve, endorse, or provide safety checkpoints for “not permitted” activities.

The following activities are in the not permitted category:

• Bungee jumping

• Flying in privately owned planes, helicopters, or blimps

• Hang gliding

• Untethered hot air ballooning

• Hunting

• Snowmobiling

• Riding a motorbike

• Riding electric scooters

• Using outdoor trampolines

• Parachuting or skydiving

• Parasailing

• Paintball tagging

• Riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)

• Stunt skiing

• Zorbing

Bungee Jumping. Bungee jumping is not highly regulated for safety or consistent in terms of facilitation from one

place to the next. It is an activity that carries a significant risk of bodily injury. Most insurance companies that have

access to the accident history of bungee jumping have deemed this activity high risk and dangerous.

Hang Gliding, Parasailing, Zorbing, Parachuting/Skydiving, and Untethered Hot Air Ballooning. These sports

also have inconsistent safety regulations, inconsistency of facilitation, and specific insurance implications or

exclusions. These are activities that carry a significant risk of bodily injury. Insurance carriers with knowledge of

these activities, from a loss experience perspective, view them as a high safety risk, meaning they see frequent

and/or severe accidents associated with these sports.

Privately Owned Aircraft. Flying in a privately owned aircraft is a very clear exclusion under GSUSA and (most)

councils’ commercial general liability insurance policies. In the event of an incident involving an aircraft accident,

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your council would be financially liable for potential liability and resulting lawsuits. Even with a specific non-

owned aviation liability policy (if your council purchases this type of policy, which it may not), a private plane is a

separate and distinct insurable interest (compared to a professional chartered aircraft tour). In other words, even

under non-owned aviation insurance, privately owned and/or operated planes are often excluded.

Outdoor Trampolines. Outdoor trampolines, particularly those with stilted metal frames, pose a high risk of

injury. The activity can result in sprains and fractures of the arms or legs—as well as potentially serious head and

neck injuries. The risk of injury is so high in the case of children that the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly

discourages the use of trampolines at home. Outdoor trampoline park injuries also are an area of emerging

concern. Indoor trampolines in a confined, padded indoor facility with higher supervision are safer, but still not

recommended for children under six years old. For reference see: AAOS: American Academy of Orthopedic

Surgeons.

Paintball Tag. Paintball tag is offered in specialized parks where participants shoot pellets of paint at each other

throughout an obstacle course, woods, or maze. The pressure used in a paintball gun is quite strong. When hit by a

paintball pellet, a person is certain to experience some pain, swelling, and perhaps a bruise or welt for a couple of

days. Shooting someone with a paintball pellet is likely to cause a minor injury but has the potential to cause a

more serious injury to eyes, mouth, ears, and throat. For these reasons, paintball tag is prohibited. Target paintball

shooting, however, is permitted.

Hunting. Hunting is a sport that requires handling firearms in the wilderness, high maturity levels, and the

availability of expert guides. Shooting accidents are common during hunting trips.

Jet Skis, Motorbikes, ATVs, Snowmobiles, and Electric Scooters. Jet skiing, motor biking, and riding

snowmobiles, ATVs, and electronic scooters are prohibited due to the extremely high incidence of serious injury

involved. Most insurance carriers are not comfortable with these activities due to poor accident history. Insurance

companies require that an operator hold a valid driver’s license. Adults and children riding on the back of

motorbikes and jet skis as passengers are exposed to a high risk of serious injury with no active opportunity to

actually learn the skill.

Chartered Aircraft Trips and Aviation

Chartered small aircraft trips require prior council approval for every flight. This activity is permitted only

with trip-specific council prior approval. The safety factors involving chartered aircraft, equipment, and pilots are

transparent and readily verifiable, unlike private aircraft. Confirm with your council ahead of time that chartered

aviation participation is covered under your council’s general liability policy or non-owned aviation liability

insurance policy. Again, these policies will almost always exclude privately owned aircraft.

Your council will confirm that the aviation company has evidenced proper insurance showing at least one million

dollars aviation liability insurance and five million dollars umbrella. It is strongly recommended that your council

consult with their insurance broker and/or GSUSA Risk & Insurance for assistance when vetting insurance issues

and implications.

Tethered Hot Air Ballooning. Some outdoor parks may offer the opportunity to learn the skill of hot air

ballooning in a relatively safe and controlled environment utilizing a tethered hot air balloon. Consult with your

council so they can check their general liability insurance or non-owned aviation liability policy to determine if this

activity is covered. A hot air balloon is an aircraft and viewed the same as small planes or helicopters from an

aviation risk perspective. Therefore, the same standard applies—professionally chartered and tethered hot air

balloon rides will be considered. Private rides and untethered balloon rides are not permitted.

Other Actions Girl Scouts and Volunteers Should Not Take

For legal reasons, there are other activities that Girl Scout members and volunteers are not permitted to

participate in while representing Girl Scouts. Avoiding these will preserve the integrity of our organization. These

include:

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• Endorsement of commercial products or services.

• Solicitation of financial contributions for purposes other than Girl Scouting.

• Participation in political campaigns or legislative activities unless the legislative activity has been

specifically council approved.

First Aid

Make sure at least one adult who is certified in first aid/CPR accompanies the troop/group to all activities. See

required qualifications below.

What to Do if There Is an Accident

Although you hope the worst never happens, you must observe council procedures for handling accidents and

fatalities. If a Girl Scout needs emergency medical care as the result of an accident or injury, first contact

emergency medical services, and then follow council procedures for accidents and incidents.

At the scene of an accident, first provide all possible care for the injured person(s). Follow established council

procedures for obtaining medical assistance and immediately reporting the emergency. To do this, you must

always have on hand the names and telephone numbers of council staff, parents/caregivers, and emergency

services such as the police, fire department, or hospital. Check with your council for emergency contact

information and keep your emergency action plan current with the appropriate contact information.

Your council may either have specific emergency contact information, a 24-hour emergency number, or both. Be

sure to reach out to them for their preferred method of contact. You will need:

• The exact time and location of the incident

• A description of the incident

• The names of the people involved

• The names of any witnesses

After receiving a report of an accident, council staff will immediately arrange for additional assistance at the scene,

if needed, and will contact parents/caregivers, as appropriate. Your adherence to these procedures is critical,

especially with respect to notifying parents or legal guardians. If the media is involved, let council-designated staff

discuss the incident with media representatives.

In the event of a fatality or other serious accident, the police must be immediately notified. A responsible

volunteer must remain at the scene the entire time. In the case of a fatality, do not disturb the victim or

surroundings and follow police instructions. Do not share information about the accident with anyone but the

police, your council, and, if applicable, insurance representatives or legal counsel.

When Someone Needs Emergency Care

Girl Scout members need to receive proper instruction in how to care for themselves and others in emergencies.

They also need to learn the importance of reporting any accidents, illnesses, or unusual behaviors during Girl Scout

activities to adult volunteers. Make sure you know what you do and do not need to report. Reporting requirements

vary by council; check with your local council for specifics.

Be Prepared

Follow these steps (and any others specific to your region or circumstances) to be prepared in case accidents or

emergencies occur:

• Establish and practice procedures for weather emergencies.

• Know the type of extreme weather to expect in your area (tornadoes, hurricanes, and lightning). Consult

with your council for the most relevant information for you to share with Girl Scout members.

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• Establish and practice procedures for such circumstances as fire evacuation, lost persons, and building

security issues. Every Girl Scout member and adult volunteer must know how to act in these situations. For

example, you and your Girl Scout members, with the help of a fire department representative, should

design a fire evacuation plan for meeting places used by the group.

• Assemble a well-stocked first aid kit that is always accessible. First aid administered in the first few

minutes can make a significant difference in the severity of an injury. In an emergency, secure professional

medical assistance as soon as possible, normally by calling 911, and then administer first aid, if

appropriately trained.

First Aid/CPR

For many activities, Girl Scouts recommends that at least one adult volunteer be first aid/CPR certified. You can

take advantage of first aid/CPR training offered by organizations such as:

• American Red Cross

• National Safety Council

• EMP America

• American Heart Association

• American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI)

• Medic

• Other sponsoring organizations approved by your council

If through the American Red Cross, National Safety Council, EMP America, or American Heart Association you have

a chance to be fully trained in first aid and CPR, doing so may make your activity planning go a little more

smoothly.

First Aiders

General First Aider. A general first aider is an adult volunteer who has taken Girl Scout–approved first aid and

CPR training that includes specific instructions for adult and pediatric CPR, first aid, and AED (Automated External

Defibrillator) training that, minimally, includes face-to-face, hands-on skill checks for:

• Checking a conscious victim

• Checking an unconscious victim

• Adult and pediatric CPR

• Adult and pediatric conscious choking

• Controlling bleeding

• Sudden illness

Advanced First Aider. An advanced first aider is an adult with general first aid certification and additional health,

safety, or emergency response expertise. For example, a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner,

registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, paramedic, military medic, person with wilderness training, certified

lifeguard, or emergency medical technician (EMT) meets these requirements.

The individual activity’s safety activity checkpoints will always tell you when a first aider needs to be present.

Since activities can take place in a variety of locations, the presence of a first aider and the qualifications they must

have are based on the remoteness and scope of the activity, as specified in the following chart:

Access to EMS

Minimum Level of First Aid Required

Less than 30 minutes

General First Aid

More than 30 minutes*

Advanced First Aid or Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or

Wilderness First Responder (WFR)

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*Although a Wilderness First Responder is not required, it is strongly recommended when traveling with groups in

areas that are greater than 30 minutes from EMS.

It is important to understand the differences between a first aid course and a wilderness rated course. Although

standard first aid training provides basic incident response, wilderness rated courses include training on remote

assessment skills, as well as emergency first aid response, including evacuation techniques to use when EMS is not

readily available.

Note: The presence of an advanced first aider is required at sleepaway camp and other large gatherings. For large

events—200 people or more—there should be, in addition to a regular first aider(s), one advanced first aider for every

200 participants. The following healthcare providers may also serve as advanced first aiders for large groups:

physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, paramedic, military

medic, and emergency medical technician.

First Aid Kit

Make sure a general first aid kit is available at your group meeting place and accompanies Girl Scout members on

any activity (including transportation to and from the activity). Please be aware that you may need to provide this

kit if one is not available at your meeting place. You can purchase a Girl Scout first aid kit, you can buy a

commercial kit, or you and the Girl Scouts can assemble a kit yourselves. The American Red Cross offers a list of

potential items in its Anatomy of a First Aid Kit (note that the American Red Cross’s suggested list includes aspirin,

which you will not be at liberty to provide without direct parent or guardian permission). You can also customize a

kit to cover your specific needs by including flares, treatments for frostbite or snake bites, and the like. Want to get

the troop involved? There’s a First Aid badge for all but the Daisy program level.

In addition to standard contents, all kits should contain council and emergency telephone numbers (which you can

get from your council contact). Girl Scout activity insurance forms, parent consent forms, and health histories may

also be included.

Overall Health, Well-Being, and Inclusivity

Health History Form. An annual health history form must be completed and signed by one parent/guardian for

every Girl Scout and kept on file with the troop leader.

Follow council guidelines to comply with this requirement. The form should reflect any significant medical

conditions, health issues, or allergies, and be updated each year. The form can also reflect any over-the-counter

medication that a Girl Scout is not permitted to take, if there are any.

If parents send medication on trips or activities, it should be in its original labeled container and controlled and

administered by one designated adult. Health history forms can be shared with the site camp physician or nurse

ahead of time.

Always keep a current and signed health history form for each Girl Scout member with you when traveling. Your

council may require an updated mid-year health history for overnight trips. For physically demanding activities,

such as water sports, horseback riding, or skiing, an additional current health history form may be obtained to

make sure all adults are aware of any current medical conditions or special needs. Councils will retain all health

history forms in accordance with state record retention requirements and laws.

Health Exams and Health Exam Forms. Some councils also require a health exam for any activity that is three

overnights or longer, which may include sleepaway camp. Again, follow your council’s guidelines with respect to

health exams. In most cases, the health exam needs to have been completed within one year of the last date of the

trip in order for Girl Scout members to participate. Your council may require a current health exam for adult

volunteers who participate in trips of three nights or more as well; be sure to ask your council about their health

exam policy. A health exam can be given by a licensed physician, a nurse practitioner, a physician’s assistant, or a

registered nurse. The medical provider must sign the health exam form.

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For large events or trips longer in duration, such as sleepaway camp or a weeklong trip to a ranch, the designated 
health professional at the trip location is responsible for collecting all health exam forms and health history forms 
for members and adults. 
Health exam forms and health history forms are to be shared only with designated health professionals and council 
staff responsible for coordinating them. All health and medical information are private (by law) and must not be 
shared or publicly available, so keep forms safe and secure. Only share information on a need-to-know basis. 
Councils will retain all health exam forms in accordance with individual state record retention requirements and 
laws. 
Vaccination and Immunization. Issues or questions with respect to vaccination exemption periodically arise with 
activity and trip participation. Vaccine exemption laws vary by state and focus on public and private school 
attendance more directly than they do for youth organizations. Therefore, it is best to obtain local and state legal 
guidance and proceed in accordance with the state law as it applies to school attendance. A general overview of 
state laws regarding school immunization exemption is provided and annually updated on the Centers for Disease 
Control’s website.  
If you have any questions about your obligation to communicate a Girl Scout member’s non-immunization with 
other troop parents, contact your Girl Scout council for legal guidance as privacy laws may apply. Absent state laws 
that speak directly to vaccines and communicating non-immunization with parents of youth groups, the guidance 
is to follow the standard and protocol as it pertains to school attendance.  
Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Lyme Disease Prevention. Mosquitoes, ticks, and insect bites are an inherent risk to any 
warm weather outdoor activity. Ensure parents and caregivers are aware of the need to have their children 
properly covered, preferably with closed shoes and light-colored clothing and socks. It is important to advise 
families of this risk and the safety precautions they should take. The understanding that your troop or council 
cannot be held responsible for tick bites can be reinforced with a waiver reference on a permission slip. 
An excellent source for learning more is the CDC’s Lyme Disease web page. 
To learn more about using insect repellent safely, visit the Environmental Protection Agency website at Repellents: 
Protection against Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Other Arthropods. To learn more about safely using DEET directly on the 
skin and on children, check out EPA DEET. 
Emotional Safety. In Girl Scouts, emotional safety is just as important as physical safety. Adults are responsible for 
making Girl Scouts a place where members feel comfortable, seen, and are able to be who they are. Protect their 
emotional safety by creating a team agreement and coaching everyone to honor this agreement. Team agreements 
typically encourage behaviors like respecting diverse opinions and feelings, resolving conflicts constructively, 
avoiding physical and verbal bullying or clique behavior, practicing fairness, and showing positive, respectful, and 
helpful communication with others.  
Physical or Sexual Abuse. Physical, verbal, emotional, or sexual abuse of youth is forbidden. Sexual pressure, 
sexual advances, improper touching, sexual communication, including text messaging, and sexual activity of any 
kind with Girl Scout members is not tolerated. If you witness or experience any behavior of this nature, including 
between youth, notify appropriate council staff immediately. Incidences of abuse of any kind will result in 
immediate council intervention. Volunteers are responsible for following their council’s guidelines for reporting 
any direct information or concern around physical, verbal, emotional, or sexual abuse with respect to members.  
Youth Violence and Bullying. Youth violence or bullying is also not tolerated in Girl Scouts. Youth violence occurs 
when young people intentionally use physical force or power to threaten or harm others. Bullying is a form of 
youth violence. Volunteers should become familiar with the signs, risk factors, and preventive measures against 
this type of behavior. If you witness or experience any behavior of this nature, notify the appropriate council staff 
for guidance. The CDC provides excellent resources on this topic, including: 
•  CDC Youth Violence 

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•  CDC Bullying 
•  CDC Youth Violence Prevention 
Child Abuse. All states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto 
Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have specific laws which identify persons who are required to report suspected 
child abuse to an appropriate agency. Therefore, if you witness or suspect child abuse or neglect, whether inside or 
outside of Girl Scouting, always notify the appropriate council staff immediately and follow your council’s 
guidelines for reporting your concerns to the proper agency within your state. For more information, please review 
these available resources: 
•  Child Welfare Information Gateway about Child Abuse and Neglect 
•  How to Report Child Abuse and Neglect 
•  CDC Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention 
Mental Health and Safety. As an adult volunteer overseeing the activities and behaviors of young people, you may 
witness other signs of harmful tendencies such as self-harm. Self-harm can take a physical form such as cutting, 
burning, bruising, excessive scratching, hair pulling, poisoning, or drug use. Other tendencies of self-harm are 
suicidal ideations that can be expressed verbally or with the written word. Another harmful expression involves 
harm to others which can be detected verbally or with physical aggression. If a situation of this nature is observed 
or comes to your attention in any form, always notify an appropriate council staff member immediately and follow 
your council guidelines with respect to next steps. The CDC provides informative guidance around identifying and 
responding to harmful behaviors: Self-Directed Violence and Other Forms of Self-Injury and also a section on at-
risk youth, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Youth at Risk. Encourage Girl Scouts to consider earning mental 
wellness badges, found on the Mental Wellness and Inclusion page. 
Accommodate All Members. Girl Scouts is committed to making reasonable accommodations for any physical or 
cognitive conditions. Talk to Girl Scout members of all abilities and their caregivers; ask about needs and 
accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location, facility, and/or instructors to ensure they are able to 
accommodate all participants. For more information, visit Disabled World. Whenever possible, the individual 
activity’s safety activity checkpoints will provide additional resources specific to that sport or activity. Our goal is 
to include all who have a desire to participate. 
Equity. Girl Scouts has a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we welcome and embrace 
individuals of all abilities and backgrounds into our sisterhood. For Girl Scouts, equity means that we ensure that 
all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to whatever is needed to fully 
participate in Girl Scouts. Follow the general guidance below, as well as any activity-specific recommendations in 
those chapters. 
Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop. What might affect their 
participation in an activity, or how comfortable they feel on a field trip? What might get in the way of family 
communications, or a troop member’s ability to access information? Work with members and families to 
understand how an activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and 
have access to whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills 
needed to enjoy the activity. 
•  Some activities addressed here—from indoor skydiving to horseback riding to sailing—can be expensive 
and out of reach for families. Girl Scouting—and the opportunity for participants to set goals, earn funds, 
and make decisions—means that expensive or exclusive activities can be within reach. Make sure budget 
plans include ways for all to participate. Clearly communicate any costs the family is expected to bear, and 
identify tactics to discreetly support them. Has the troop budgeted funds for this? How about your council?  
•  Consider body size and ability as potential barriers to participation. Ask vendors such as horseback or 
kayak outfitters about any weight or similar restrictions before booking to ensure that all can join in. If not, 
choose a vendor with more inclusive equipment and resources. 

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• Identify and communicate what gear is provided by the vendor, what is shared by all members of the troop,

and what must be brought by each individual.

• Required or recommended gear for many activities can be expensive or unfamiliar to families. Help Girl

Scouts find appropriate gear by borrowing, thrifting, or renting. Check your council office for items your

troop may be able to check out, or ask the vendor if they have extras. Show participants how to use any

equipment they are expected to bring. Make needs clear to parents/caregivers to ensure everyone is

prepared and confident.

• Provide progressive opportunities to build skills and confidence in new sports—especially aquatics. Water

sports are often accessible only to privileged communities. Contact your local YMCA or public pool for

swim lessons that will build comfort and success not only in the water, but on it.

• Meet all participants where they are. If your troop has different levels of experience, teach to the level of

the least experienced so no one gets left behind.

Transporting Girl Scouts

How parents decide to transport Girl Scouts between their homes and Girl Scout meeting places is each parent’s

individual decision and responsibility.

For planned Girl Scout field trips and other activities, in which a group will be transported in privately owned

vehicles, arrange qualified drivers and ensure:

• Every driver must be a registered, background-checked member (approved adult volunteer) at least 21

years old, and have a safe driving record, a valid license, and a registered/insured vehicle, and meets

council standards and policies for driving and transportation.

• Girl Scout youth members never drive other members to, from, or during activities or field trips.

• If a group is traveling in one vehicle, there must be at least two unrelated, registered background-checked

members (approved adult volunteers) in the vehicle, one of whom is female.

• If a group is traveling in more than one vehicle, the entire group must consist of at least two unrelated,

registered background-checked members (approved adult volunteers), one of whom is female.

Plan for Safe Driving

• Review and implement the standards in the Checklist for Drivers, later in this section. Share it with all

drivers, in advance. Build possible delays into your schedule. Allowing time for traffic or other delays will

help prevent urgency and stress, which can be dangerous when driving.

• Provide directions for each vehicle.

• For driving trips of more than a few hours, plan a stop where all cars can meet and gather. This will avoid

having drivers follow too closely or worry about being separated from the group.

• Anticipate stops every couple of hours for drivers to rest and refresh. Let drivers know they can stop more

often if needed.

• Arrange for relief drivers if drive time will last six hours or more.

• In each vehicle, there should be a first aid kit, and permission and health history forms for each person in

that car.

Borrowing or Renting Vehicles. When borrowing or renting vehicles, drivers may rent cars or minivans in their

own names without council staff signature. Make sure the car is adequately insured; consult the driver’s auto

insurance company. Know who is responsible for damage to, or loss of, the vehicle. Be sure the vehicle is used only

for Girl Scout purposes, as non-related use can compromise coverage. Contact GSGI for specifics and approval.

To avoid surprises, read rental agreements to be familiar with the terms of the agreement and to be sure you

comply with the terms. For example, in many cases the minimum age of drivers is 25, and the maximum age is

often under 70.

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Chartered Vehicles. Chartered vehicles, such as buses, are contracted, usually with the driver or operator, for a

group’s exclusive use. Volunteers may not sign contracts for charters even if there is no cost. Contact GSGI for

specifics and approval.

Taxis and ride-sharing services, including Uber and Lyft, may be used with these guidelines:

• An adult should ride in each vehicle with Girl Scouts when multiple vehicles are being used.

• Wait for your ride in a safe place. For taxis, when possible, call (or ask your hotel to call), rather than

hailing from the street. Use a taxi stand at airports. Stand away from traffic while waiting.

• For taxis, check that the taxi is appropriately marked.

• For ride-sharing services:

o Check that the vehicle’s license plate, make, and model match what is shown in the app.

o Compare the app’s photo with the driver. Ask for their name and be sure it matches the app.

o Ask, “Who are you here to pick up?” They should have your first name, but no other information

about you.

• If you feel uncomfortable for any reason, do not get into the vehicle. If you become uncomfortable, end

the ride. Report your experience to the taxi service or ride-sharing app.

• Send your in-town trip contact the name of the driver and your destination. Most apps have a sharing

feature for this purpose.

• Do not share information about the group or where you are staying with any strangers.

• Each passenger must wear a seat belt.

• Enter and exit curbside.

• In foreign countries, consult a local expert about how best to call for taxis or rides. Reputable practices

vary.

Recreational Vehicles, Campers, and Trailers. Whether privately owned or rented, these may be used if the

driver has the appropriate training and license for the vehicle. Passengers must use seat belts when the vehicle is

in motion and may not ride in a trailer or in the bed of a truck.

Vans Designed for 15 Passengers. Volunteers are not encouraged to operate 15-passenger vans as the design of

the vehicles makes them inherently unsafe for the average non-professional driver. School buses, minibuses, and

minivans are preferred. For atypical circumstances, when another option is impossible, make sure to follow this

checklist before driving Girl Scout members in a van designed for 15 passengers:

• Prior council approval must be obtained.

• The van was built in 2011 or later.

• Driver assistance technology has been installed:

o Electronic stability control

o Tire pressure monitoring

o Side curtain airbags

o Center aisle

• Insurance is valid. Check with the auto insurance company to confirm.

• All other safety measures are in place; see the Checklist for Drivers.

• No gear is loaded on top, or heavy gear in the back of the van.

• Van is not overloaded.

• Drive with headlights on, in the right-hand lane when possible.

• Inspect tire conditions and pressure before each trip.

• The driver has the appropriate license in the state(s) where the van will be driven. This type of van may

need a commercial driver’s license. Contact GSGI for specifics and approval.

Note: These rules do not apply to commercial or professionally operated services such as airport shuttles.

Professionally operated commercial vans designed for 15 passengers are permitted.

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Commercial and common-carrier transportation is available to the public. They include buses, trains, airlines,

ferries, and similar modes of transportation. In the United States, these are regulated and can be considered safe.

Keep it girl-led; members can compare fares and schedules and make decisions with adult support.

When traveling internationally, consider the transportation options available in the host country and determine

safety and accessibility specific to the location.

Checklist for Drivers

When driving a car, RV, or camper, take the following precautions and ask all other drivers to do the same:

• Ensure all volunteer drivers are at least 21 years old.

• Only adult volunteers transport Girl Scout members.

• Wear seat belts and insist that all passengers do the same. Each person must have their own, fixed seat belt.

• Anyone under 12 must ride in the back seats. Use car seats and boosters as required by your state.

• Never transport Girl Scout members in flatbed or panel trucks, in the bed of a pickup, or in a camper-trailer.

• Keep directions and a road map in the car, along with a first aid kit and a flashlight.

• Check your lights, signals, tires, windshield wipers, horns, and fluid levels before each trip, and recheck

them periodically on long trips.

• Load gear appropriately. Heavy objects and luggage can affect vehicle stability and handling. Avoid

overloading, especially on the top or back of any vehicle.

• Keep all necessary papers up to date including, but not limited to, your driver’s license, vehicle registration,

any state or local inspections, and insurance coverage.

• Follow the best driving safety practices:

o Keep at least a two-car-length distance between you and the car ahead of you.

o Do not talk or text on a cell phone or other device.

o Do not use ear buds or headphones.

o Turn your lights on when your windshield wipers are on.

• No caravaning (cars following closely together with the lead vehicle in charge) is allowed. Each driver must

have information about the route and destination in addition to the cell phone numbers of other drivers.

• Know what to do in case of breakdown or accident. It is smart to have reflectors, a flashlight, a few tools,

and a good spare tire.

• Take time to familiarize yourself with any new or rented vehicle.

• Take a break when you need it. The volunteer in charge of your trip will plan occasional stops, but it is okay

to pull over to a safe place whenever you are too tired to continue. Relief drivers should be planned for long

drives of six hours or more.

• Do NOT drive when you are tired or taking medication that makes you drowsy.

Contact GSGI for specific guidelines and requirements.

Troop Meeting Space

Always Choose a Safe Meeting Space. Consider the age range and the type of activities you want to engage in

when selecting a location or facility for your troop meetings. A meeting place needs to provide a safe, clean, and

secure environment that allows for the participation of all Girl Scout members. You might consider rooms at

schools, libraries, houses of worship, community buildings, childcare facilities, and local businesses for your

meeting location. For teens, you can also rotate meetings at coffee shops, bookstores, and other places they enjoy

spending time. Below are a few points to keep in mind as you consider meeting locations:

• Accessibility. Be sure the space can accommodate those with disabilities, including parents/caregivers.

Also consider transportation access, based on your troop’s needs: Is the meeting site close to public

transportation? Is there a safe place for Girl Scouts to get dropped off? Is there parking on site?

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 24 of 226

• Allergen-free. Ensure pet dander, smoke, and other common allergens will not bother susceptible

members during meetings.

• Availability. Be sure the space is available for the day and the entire length of time of your troop meetings.

• Communication friendly. Be sure your cell phone works in the meeting space or there is a land line for

emergencies. Internet access is helpful.

• Cost. The space should be free to use. However, you may wish to develop a partnership with the facility and

provide them community service (e.g., flower planting in the spring at the entrance, or a clean-up day for

the grounds) or offer a donation toward maintenance or utilities.

• Facilities. Sanitary and accessible restrooms and toilets are critical.

• Resources. Determine what types of furnishings come with the room and ensure the lighting is adequate. A

bonus would be a cubby or closet where you can store supplies.

• Safety. Ensure the space is safe, secure, clean, properly ventilated, heated (or cooled, depending on

location), free from hazards, and has at least two exits that are well-marked and fully functional. Also check

to see if a first aid kit and equipment (e.g., portable defibrillator), smoke detectors, and a fire extinguisher

are on site.

• Size. Make sure the space is large enough to accommodate the whole group and all planned activities.

Can We Meet in a Private Home? Girl Scouts does not recommend holding troop meetings in private homes. If

you are considering meeting in a private home, check with your council to make sure it is permitted based on their

council policy. In addition to the above, remember to ensure these standards:

• Always obtain prior approval from your council.

• The private home must be the home of a registered, council-approved volunteer.

• Girl Scout members may not meet in a home where a registered sex offender resides.

• Some councils require membership and background checks for all adults living in the home. Contact your

council for specific guidelines.

• Troop members need to be able to focus without disruptions from other household members.

• Animals should be kept in a place that is separate from the meeting space.

• Homeowners should consider any personal insurance implications. The homeowner should ask their

personal homeowner’s insurance carrier if there are any insurance concerns with troop meetings in the

home. Also, volunteers should confirm with the council that troop meetings in the home are covered by the

council’s liability insurance carrier.

• Weapons must be out of view and in a locked space. Medication, cleaning products, or any poisonous

substances must be stored in a secure space, out of sight, and preferably locked.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 25 of 226

Activities at a Glance

Girl Scout activities require consideration by the safe and caring adults who guide Girl Scouts as they plan each activity. Awareness of the abilities of each

member and considering the progression of skills it takes from the easiest to the most difficult part of the activity is the role of the adults. Making sure the

complexity of an activity does not exceed an individual’s ability is why Girl Scouts safety activity checkpoints are based on progressive experience.

Certain activities have been rated by Girl Scouts’ national insurance company as high risk. High risk activities are those that, if practiced unsafely or in an

unsafe environment, could cause serious injury or death to a participant, could require crisis communication if an injury occurs, or if not handled

appropriately, could negatively impact the Girl Scout reputation or brand. High risk activities require prior council approval. A council can provide

approval for an activity in a manner that does not require approval every single time the troop practices an activity. However, a volunteer must confirm

that the activity is approved by your council prior to participation whenever Prior Council Approval is indicated as “Required.”

As you explore the many options to engage Girl Scout members in exciting activities, you will notice that there are recommendations for some activities

to start at an older grade level. These recommendations are based on progressive experience and have taken into consideration the emotional, physical,

and developmental stages of participants and are intended to guide you as you plan activities with them. Reach out to your council if you have specific

questions about progression in Girl Scouting. Guidelines may differ from state to state. The ultimate goal is for Girl Scout members to feel confident and

comfortable with each planned activity.

For every activity, always follow the adult-to-youth ratios listed in the

Introduction: Standard Safety Guidelines.

Activities at a Glance

Daisy

Brownie

Junior

Cadette

Senior

Ambassador

High Risk?

Prior

Council

Approval

Required?

Additional Comments and Required Instructor

Certifications, Experience, and Verification

Aerial Fitness

May Be

Required

Includes silks, hoops, trapeze.

Verify instructor experience and credentials.

Amusement Parks

May Be

Required

Animal Interaction and

Adventure

Not

Required

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 26 of 226

Backpacking

Required

*Backpacking is not recommended for Daisies and

Brownies due to weight restrictions on their small frames

and the need, when backpacking, to be able to carry all their

needed supplies. For Daisies and Brownies, refer to Hiking

Activity Checkpoints.

Bicycling

May Be

Required

Council approval may be required for long rides or difficult

terrain.

Camping

Required

Ensure that at least one adult is trained for camping as

required by your council.

Climbing and Adventure Activities

Challenge Courses

Required

Instructor trained and certified by a verified agency who

demonstrates competence in equipment maintenance,

safety and rescue techniques, proper use of the course, and

hands-on training.*Daisies and Brownies may participate

only in activities that have been designed for their grade

levels and that have equipment that suits the size and

ability of each Girl Scout member. Outdoor high ropes and

high elements are only permitted for Juniors and older.

Climbing and Rappelling

Required

*Daisies and Brownies are permitted to boulder, slackline,

and do low challenge elements. Note that Daisies and

Brownies may participate only in activities designed for

their ages, with equipment suitable to the size and ability of

each Girl Scout member. *Brownies can participate in most

indoor climbing activities provided a minimum of one

facilitator and an additional adult are present, and

facilitators are skilled in selecting appropriate activities,

teaching, and supervising spotting and lowering techniques,

and modifying tasks to meet any specific needs. Outdoor

high ropes, high elements, and rappelling are only

permitted for Juniors and older.

Recreational Tree Climbing

Required

A certified instructor with documented experience in

leading and teaching tree climbing is required. In

recreational tree climbing, climbers use ropes, harnesses,

saddles, and climbing techniques to ascend into the crowns

of trees.

Zip Lining

Required

*Not permitted for Daisies, except for playground zip lines.

*Canopy tours are not permitted for Daisies or Brownies on

non-Girl Scout sites.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 27 of 226

Community Clean-Up

Required

Check grade-permission levels that apply to the individual

type of projects that are outlined in the Community Clean-up

Safety Activity Checkpoints. For example, beachfront,

waterways, parks, and roadsides.

Computer and Internet Use

Not

Required

All Girl Scout members, as well as their parents and

guardians, must read, agree to, and abide by the Girl Scout

Internet Safety Pledge when online.

Virtual Troop Meetings

May Be

Required

Adults check with their Girl Scout council if they have any

questions about which video conferencing service to use.

Councils may prefer to utilize only specific conferencing

services, or they may leave this entirely up to the volunteer.

Always follow the Virtual Meeting Activity Checkpoints.

Cookie and Product Programs

Not

Required

Adults must accompany Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors

when they are selling, taking orders, and delivering

products. Adults oversee Cadettes, Seniors, and

Ambassadors and must be aware of how, when, and where

they are when selling products.

Cross-Country Skiing

May Be

Required

First Aider has a current certificate in first aid including

adult and child CPR or CPR/AED and is prepared to handle

cases of frostbite, cold exposure, hypothermia, sprains, and

altitude sickness. *Not recommended for Daisies due to

complexity and strength.

Downhill Skiing and

Snowboarding

Required

Instructors are certified by the Professional Ski Instructors

of America (PSIA) and the American Association of

Snowboard Instructors (AASI) or possess equivalent

certification.

Fencing

May Be

Required

One adult is a certified fencing instructor or has equivalent

certification or documented experience according to your

council’s guidelines. Ensure there is a ratio of one instructor

for every ten fencers.

Fishing and Ice Fishing

May Be

Required

Adult or fishing instructor completes Girl Scouts small craft

safety training or has equivalent certification or

documented experience (competencies); the ratio of

instructor-to-participant is one-to-ten.

Geocaching

Not

Required

*Daisies are permitted when working with older Girl Scout

members and adults as part of another outdoor activity.

Go-Karting

Required

*Juniors may not independently drive go-karts unless on a

rail system.

Hayrides

Required

Qualified driver who is licensed to drive a motor vehicle, is

at least 21 years of age (25 and older preferred), and has

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 28 of 226

experience hauling a trailer and driving the vehicle being

used.

Hiking

Not

Required

Horseback Riding

Required

Riding instructors are adults (at least 18 years old) who

have current certification from an accredited horsemanship

instructor training organization, such as the Certified

Horsemanship Association and American Association for

Horsemanship Safety, or documented proof of a minimum

of three years’ experience successfully instructing in a

general horseback riding program. *Daisies are only

allowed on pony rides and hand-led horseback walks.

Ice Skating and Roller Skating

May Be

Required

Council approval may be required for natural bodies of

water.

Indoor Skydiving

Required

Instructor holds instructional flight certification from the

International Bodyflight Association or has council

approved equivalent certification or documented

experience and skill in teaching and/or supervising indoor

skydiving.

Indoor Trampoline

May Be

Required

*Daisies under the age of six may not participate.

Inflatable Activities

Aquatic Bounces and Slides

May Be

Required

Aquatic bounce houses and inflatable bounce bubbles and

slides are approved for Brownies and above.

Aquatic Climbing Walls

May Be

Required

Aquatic climbing walls are not permitted for Daisies and

Brownies. Juniors and above may take part in aquatic

climbing wall activities when they are strong swimmers

and can swim in water deeper than five feet.

Bounce Houses

Not

Required

*Daisies can only take part in bounce houses that are

specific for their age, height, and weight.

Log Rolling

May Be

Required

Log Rolling is not permitted for Daisies.

Bubble Soccer

May Be

Required

Bubble Soccer is not permitted for Daisies and Brownies.

Land Sports

See Miscellaneous Activities

Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Not

Required

Ensure adults are well versed in rules and aware of safety

concerns for the designated sport.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 29 of 226

Laser Tag

See Miscellaneous Activities

Safety Activity Checkpoints.

May Be

Required

Verify vendor is licensed and insured.

Offshore Water/Large

Passenger Vessels

Required

Large water vessels such as ferries, cruise ships, and whale-

watching boats must be licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Orienteering

Not

Required

Orienteering is not recommended for Daisies and Brownies,

except when 1:1 with an adult, but they may be ready to

learn pre-orienteering activities such as map reading,

navigation, and map drawing.

Outdoor Cooking

Not

Required

Ensure that at least one adult is trained for outdoor cooking

as required by your council.

Paddle Sport Activities

Canoeing

Required

Follow the Master Paddling Chart for instructor/expert

certification by water type. At least one adult instructor or

guide is currently certified by the American Canoe

Association, or other sponsoring organization approved by

your council. *Not recommended for Daisies except with an

experienced adult in each canoe on flat water.

Corcl Boats

Required

Follow the Master Paddling Chart for certification by water

type.

Kayaking

Required

Follow the Master Paddling Chart for instructor/expert

certification by water type. *Flat water only for Brownies.

Packrafting

Required

Follow the Master Paddling Chart for instructor certification

by water type.

Row Boating

Required

Follow the Master Paddling Chart for certification by water

type. *Daisies may use basic row boats only if they have an

adult in the boat with them.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Required

Follow the Master Paddling Chart for instructor/expert

certification by water type.

Whitewater Rafting

J**

Required

Follow the Master Paddling Chart for instructor/expert

certification by water type, and for program grade levels

permitted to raft in various conditions.

Parades and Other Large Group

Gatherings

Not

Required

Pocket Knife and Jackknife

Safety

May Be

Required

See Pocket Knife and Jackknife Activity Checkpoints for all

instructor requirements and grade-level recommendations.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 30 of 226

*Daisies can learn pocket knife and jackknife safety with

cardboard or wood examples.

Rocketry/Model Rocketry

Required

Daisies and Brownies are not ready to participate in model

rocketry as defined in this activity. Daisies and Brownies

can participate in simple science experiments like air-

powered drinking straw rockets, balloon rockets, stomp

rockets, or water-powered bicycle pump rockets. Daisies

and Brownies may observe model rocket launches at a safe

distance.

Sailing

Required

Adult or sailing instructor is certified as a sailing instructor

or sailing counselor by U.S. Sailing, completes Girl Scouts

small craft safety training, or possesses equivalent

certification or documented experience according to your

council’s guidelines. The instructor-to-girl ratio is one to

four. *Thoroughly verify Brownie maturity level for sailing.

Scuba Diving

Required

Scuba diving teacher holds instructional certification from

Scuba Schools International (SSI), Professional Association

of Diving Instructors (PADI), the National Association of

Underwater Instructors (NAUI), or the YMCA. The

instructor-to-girl ratio is one to four.

Segway

See Miscellaneous Activities

Safety Activity Checkpoints.

May Be

Required

Vendor must be licensed and insured. Segway is only

permitted when used in a pedestrian environment, not on

public roads.

Skateboarding

See Miscellaneous Activities

Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Not

Required

Skate parks are for experienced skaters. Beginners should

not be in skate parks.

Sledding, Tobogganing, and

Snow Tubing

May Be

Required

Girl Scout members must go feet-first and helmets are

strongly recommended. Girl Scout members are not

permitted to be towed behind any vehicle, including

snowmobiles. No sledding near trees, buildings, or

roadways.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 31 of 226

Snorkeling

Required

Snorkeling instructor holds instructional certification from

Scuba Schools International (SSI) or the Professional

Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) or has equivalent

certification. If the instructor is not also a certified

lifeguard, you will need a lifeguard present. Lifeguards need

current American Red Cross Lifeguarding plus Waterfront

Module, or YMCA Waterfront Lifeguarding certification or

equivalent experience. One lifeguard is needed for every 25

swimmers.

Snowshoeing

Not

Required

Instruction is given by an adult with experience teaching

and/or supervising snowshoeing or has documented

experience.

Spelunking/Caving

Required

Instruction is given by an adult with experience teaching

and/or supervising spelunking or has documented

experience.

STEM, Arts, Crafts

See Miscellaneous Activities

Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Not

Required

Surfing

Required

Instructors should hold a certification from the National

Surf Schools and Instructors Association, the International

Surfing Association, or similar certification. Notify

lifeguards and point out location of other surfers. Ocean

lifeguard certifications, according to local and state norms

and standards, are required. The instructor-to-girl ratio is

one to four. Surfers must demonstrate appropriate swim

skill level.

Swimming

Required

Follow the lifeguard certification requirements and ratios

listed in Swimming Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Target Sport Activities

3-D Archery

Required

One adult is certified by the National Field Archery

Association, USA Archery, or Easton Foundation. In

addition, one adult to every ten Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors,

and Ambassadors is required.

Air/BB Guns

Required

One adult is a certified National Rifle Association range

safety officer or USA Shooting Sports instructor. In addition,

one adult to every five Brownies and one adult to every ten

Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors is required.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 32 of 226

Archery

Required

One adult has certification from the National Field

Archery Association, USA Archery, or Easton Foundation. In

addition, one adult to every five Brownies and one adult to

every ten Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors is

required unless on a Girl Scout site.

Ax/Hatchet Throwing

Required

One adult instructor trained in ax/hatchet form and

technique, safety, range rules, and emergency procedures.

In addition, one adult to every two Cadettes, Seniors, and

Ambassadors is required.

Knife Throwing

Required

One adult instructor trained in knife throwing form and

technique, safety, range rules, and emergency procedures.

In addition, one adult to every two Cadettes, Seniors, and

Ambassadors is required.

Muzzle Loading

Required

*Must be 12 years or older to participate. One adult is a

certified National Rifle Association range safety officer or

USA Shooting Sports instructor. In addition, one adult to

every two Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors is required.

Pistol

Required

*Must be 14 years or older to participate. One adult is a

certified National Rifle Association range safety officer or

USA Shooting Sports instructor. In addition, one adult to

every four Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors is required.

Rifle

Required

*Must be 12 years old or older to participate. One adult is a

certified National Rifle Association range safety officer or

USA Shooting Sports instructor. In addition, one adult to

every eight Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors is required.

Shotgun—Trap/Skeet Shooting

Required

*Must be 12 years old or older to participate. One adult is a

certified National Rifle Association range safety officer or

USA Shooting Sports instructor. In addition, one adult to

every eight Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors is required.

Slingshot

May Be

Required

One adult instructor trained in slingshot form and

technique, safety, range rules, and emergency procedures.

In addition, one adult to every five Daisies and Brownies

and one adult to every ten Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and

Ambassadors is required.

Target Paintball

May Be

Required

One adult is trained in paintball safety, range rules, and

emergency procedures. In addition, one adult to every five

Brownies and one adult to every ten Juniors, Cadettes,

Seniors, and Ambassadors is required.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 33 of 226

Tethered Balloon Rides

Required

Ensure operators have liability insurance and are licensed

through the Federal Aviation Administration. Pilots must be

currently licensed.

Tools—Hand and Power

May Be

Required

See the Tools—Hand and Power Safety Activity Checkpoints

for grade level permission and progression. Certain power

tools are not permitted for all grade levels. Adults must be

present to meet the adult-to-youth ratios listed in the

Introduction: Standard Safety Guidelines.

Travel/Trips

Required

See Travel/Trips Safety Activity Checkpoints for grade-level

trip and travel length recommendations.

Tubing

Required

One adult must complete Girl Scouts small craft safety

training or equivalent, and have experience teaching and

supervising tubing activities. If tubing behind a motorboat,

make sure the driver is an adult and has a valid license to

operate the motorboat. Girl Scout members are not

permitted to be towed by jet skis or wave runners. Follow

the lifeguard certification requirements and ratios listed in

Swimming Safety Activity Checkpoints. Adults must be

present to meet the adult-to-youth ratios listed in the

Waterskiing and Wakeboarding

Required

Ensure the adult or instructor is certified by USA Water Ski

or possesses equivalent certification or documented

experience according to your council’s guidelines. Confirm

the boat driver is an adult, has an appropriate license, and

is skilled in operating the watercraft. Follow the lifeguard

certification requirements and ratios listed in Swimming

Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Windsurfing

Required

In addition to a lifeguard, at least one adult present should

have Girl Scouts small craft safety training or equivalent.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 34 of 226

How to Use Safety Activity Checkpoints

On the following pages, you will find the individual safety activity checkpoints for Girl Scouts of the USA and Girl

Scouts of Greater Iowa’s approved activities.

As soon as the Troop/Group begins planning a particular trip or activity, adult volunteers and troop leaders should

always review:

• The Introduction: Standard Safety Guidelines section, which provides the standard safety guidelines that

apply to all Girl Scout activities, and

• The related individual activity’s safety activity checkpoints (e.g., Swimming, Backpacking, Camping)

Volunteers and troop leaders should then continue to refer to both the Introduction: Standard Safety Guidelines and

the individual activity’s safety activity checkpoints throughout the entire activity planning process to ensure all

proper precautions have been taken and all safety guidelines have been met before participating in the activity.

As part of your activity planning, be sure to pay particular attention to the following areas:

• When the adult-to-youth ratio or other safety parameters are stricter for a specific activity than in the

Standard Safety Guidelines, always follow the stricter parameters given in the individual activity’s safety

activity checkpoints.

• Where access and inclusion can be enhanced. See the Equity section in the document introduction, and

any specific recommendations in activity sections.

• Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting

any activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an

accident, physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

When in doubt, contact your Girl Scout council for help and guidance in adhering to the safety standards set forth

in Girl Scouts Safety Activity Checkpoints.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 35 of 226

Aerial Fitness

Council Approval: May Be Required

Activity Permitted for: C, S, A

Includes:

• Silks

• Hoops

• Trapeze

About Aerial Fitness

Aerial fitness has a special focus on three-dimensional movement, conditioning, joint rotation, and mobility and is a

great way to move your body outside of a typical gym workout. It allows for different body types, personality types,

and levels of challenge for expression. More than just a fun activity, aerial fitness uses silks, hoops, and trapeze to

provide a wide range of health benefits that target physical strength and support a positive mental state by fusing

together a variety of activities and skills such as stretching, Pilates, cardio, strength training, and concentration.

Aerial fitness uses a variety of equipment to support and suspend the body and works with a range of body types

to use the effects of supported body weight and gravity to lengthen, strengthen, contract, and extend muscles,

improve posture, add gentle traction effects, optional inversions, and align joints.

Learn More

• American Circus Educators

• Circus Safety Strategies

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to

ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities. For more information, visit Aerial Yoga for

Wheelchair Users and Children with Special Needs Soar in the Circus.

Equity. Check with the vendor to determine if any size or weight restrictions might limit participation. Consider

the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could affect their ability to

equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an activity is perceived.

Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to whatever is needed to

fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy the activity. See the

Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about expense, body size, ability,

gear, experience, and confidence.

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 36 of 226

Aerial Fitness Checkpoints

Assess participants’ maturity level. Participants must be old enough to understand safety procedures and handle

equipment so as not to endanger themselves or others.

Verify instructor knowledge and experience. Instruction is to be given by an adult who has experience teaching

and/or supervising Aerial Fitness for the ages involved, has necessary certifications, or has substantial

documented experience. Ensure that the instructor has the appropriate qualifications and skills to undertake all

aspects of the course, that they are aware of their responsibilities, and that they are willing to comply with the

relevant legislation.

Select a safe site.

• Location and equipment are clean, sanitized, and free of debris and or odors.

• Care and storage should be taken for the proper maintenance of equipment in accordance with the

specifications set by the manufacturer.

• Any broken or damaged equipment should be removed immediately.

• Safety mats/nets are clean and placed appropriately under participants.

• All stations should have well maintained rigging and setup that is inspected by a certified person on a daily

basis as well as regularly scheduled inspections based on your local regulations.

• Enough information and guidance are provided to ensure the risks involved are minimized.

• Participants are taught how to use the equipment properly and safely.

• Ensure that no student can access the equipment without supervision.

• Ensure that when participating in activities that do not provide a harness, participants cannot be more than

6 feet from the ground.

• Facility should have enough ventilation and temperature control for the size of the space.

Contact the location regarding any physical concerns. Aerial fitness students with certain health conditions

and/or existing or previous injuries should contact the facility’s office prior to registration. Typically, anyone over

200 pounds should contact the facility’s office to discuss safety and other considerations.

Youth learn about and prepare for aerial fitness. Instructors teach a set of readiness instructions and

commands. All participants should use gentle muscle warm-up and stretching activities before beginning physical

activities. Instructors must describe the objectives, safety procedures, and hazards to the participants before

beginning an activity.

On the Day of the Activity

Dress appropriately. Make sure participants wear clothing that is comfortable, snug fitting, and covers the knees,

and that they have the appropriate footwear for the activity. Avoid wearing dangling earrings, bracelets, and

necklaces that may become entangled in equipment. Tie back long hair.

Ensure the instructor reviews the rules and operating procedures beforehand. The instructor covers safety

procedures, including:

• No gum or candy

• Drinking plenty of water and resting when tired

• Being aware of other participants

Safety and Required Gear

• Hoops, silks, or trapeze equipment

• Harnesses and safety nets for trapezing

• Harnesses potentially for silks

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 37 of 226

Amusement Parks

Council Approval: May Be Required

Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A

Includes:

• Large theme parks

• Smaller amusement-type parks/Free-standing rides

• Carnivals/County Fairs

• Waterparks or facilities (more than a swimming pool)

• Themed adventure parks

• Controlled go-kart activities

About Amusement Parks

Amusement parks take a wide variety of forms depending on where they are geographically located and the

audience they are geared toward. These parks are commercially operated enterprises that offer rides, games,

activities, and other forms of entertainment. To ensure a safe park experience, it is important to look at the various

activities individually to ensure safety and compliance with Girl Scouts’ Safety Activity Checkpoints. For example,

some locations may have activities that are not permissible Girl Scout activities, such as bungee jumping. Be sure to

identify these prior to making final plans and communicate which activities may be restricted because of age,

height, and weight. Also, discuss ride and crowd safety, have a designated meeting space, and encourage Girl Scouts

to act responsibly.

Currently 44 of 50 states regulate amusement parks. The six without state oversight are Alabama, Mississippi,

Montana, Nevada, Wyoming, and Utah. These states contain few, if any, amusement parks. Amusement and other

types of adventure parks, as listed above, can be found in most states.

Learn More

• Saferparks Database

• Guide to U.S. Theme Parks

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location in advance to understand the

accommodations for those with disabilities. Communicate this information with families.

Equity. Find out about age, height, or weight restrictions for park attractions. Communicate these with troop

members and their families. Discuss selecting rides or areas of the park that all members can engage in, as well as

identifying the rides that interest them. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout

members in your troop that could affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and

families to understand how an activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel

comfortable and have access to whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior

experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity

Checkpoints for general advice about equity.

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 38 of 226

Amusement Park Checkpoints

Connect with your Girl Scout council for approved sites or site suggestions to ensure the location is vetted.

If it is not, allow enough time to have the location approved.

Inquire about adequate insurance. The park you attend may or may not be able or willing to provide evidence of

one million dollars general liability insurance and instructor certifications upon request (depending on the size of

the group). It is best to at least inquire and have the conversation in order to verify credibility of the park’s

management.

Ensure safety of theme park rides. Obtain full information about the rides and other activities and evaluate them

for safety with a special focus on the age, height, and weight levels of riders.

Follow Swimming Safety Activity Checkpoints. Pay particular attention to water park safety rules. Ensure there

are certified lifeguards at each activity. A swim assessment is strongly recommended prior to the trip.

Follow Go-Karting Safety Activity Checkpoints. Note age restrictions.

Know where individuals are at all times. Keep track of whereabouts. Conduct a head count before and after

activities. Ensure everyone knows where to go and how to act when confronted by strangers.

Review plans upon arrival. Adults should obtain a copy of the park guide to facilitate the visit and gain important

information on park policies, as well as the location of restrooms and the first aid station. Plan the rides or events

to attend with predetermined groups.

Determine a meeting spot beforehand. Adults and Girl Scouts should discuss plans for the visit and set a place to

meet (home base spot) if they get separated from the group.

Verify first aid particulars. Know where the first aid station is located. Ensure the presence of a first aid kit and a

first aider (with a current certificate in first aid, including adult and child CPR or CPR/AED) who is prepared to

handle cases of abrasions, sprains, and fractures.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 39 of 226

Animal Interaction

Council Approval: Not Required

Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A

Includes:

• All animal tourism and interaction

• Farm animals and home pets

• Wild animals

• Rescue, shelter, and therapy animals

About Animal Interaction

Planned interaction with animals is a popular and desired activity for many Girl Scouts, from petting zoos to

therapy dogs and rescue animals. Through these activities they can learn about animals and have memorable

experiences.

Unplanned interaction with animals can occur during other activities, such as hiking. Prepare for those ahead so

girls know that not interacting with an animal will provide both safety and a valuable learning opportunity.

This activity primarily focuses on planned animal interaction under a controlled environment, including all

educational programs, wildlife tourism, and farm animals.

Learn More

• Child Safety Around Animals: HealthyChildren.org

Animal Safety and Health Reminders

• Partner with reputable organizations. Ensuring they have liability insurance helps credibility.

• Assess your group. Ensure they are mature enough to follow rules and exercise self-control. Do not allow

children under age five to interact with reptiles, amphibians, baby chicks, ducklings, or pet zoo animals (per

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

• Control their interaction. Let everyone know that it is not okay to tease, hurt, or play roughly with any

animal.

• Keep it clean. Make sure hands are washed before and after contact with animals, animal bedding, or

waste.

• Be vigilant. Treat bites or scratches according to the first aider’s training to avoid infection. Report animal

aggression, bites, or other concerns to the authorities and to your council.

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers. Ask

about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructors in advance to

ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities.

Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could

affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an

activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to

whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy

the activity. Recognize that Girl Scouts may have various levels of exposure to and experience with animals. They

may also have different cultural or personal perspectives on the keeping of animals on farms, in zoos, or in other

facilities. Remind your troop that there should be no judgment as everyone learns together. See the Equity section

of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about expense,

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 40 of 226

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

Animal Interaction Checkpoints

Review basic rules for animal interaction:

• Do not pet or otherwise disturb an animal that is sleeping or eating.

• Stay away from an animal’s food.

• Do not tease or abuse an animal.

• Watch for warning signs like growling or hissing.

• Never pet an unfamiliar dog, cat, or other animal. If an animal is with its owner, ask first before petting.

• Be cautious about touching young animals, such as puppies and kittens, within view of their mother.

In addition, in the case of dogs for example, do not run when approached by an unfamiliar dog. Running may make

the dog anxious and aggressive. Instead, stay calm. Slowly back away, avoid sudden movements, and avoid direct

eye contact, but keep the dog within view.

Pets, Therapy Animals, and Rescue Shelters

• Protect participants as well as hosts’ house pets. This should be taken into consideration during

meetings, overnights, and activities. Secure all pets out of reach when Girl Scouts are present.

• Trained service animals, such as guide or hearing dogs, must be welcomed. When engaging with

service animals, be welcoming and follow the handler’s instructions regarding petting or engaging with

them.

• Follow the rules. These are often provided by the animal rescue facility or shelter.

• Supervise closely. Watch the group and practice the buddy system.

• Be clean. Take care to wash hands and sanitize footwear to protect participants from disease and to

prevent spreading disease from one animal to another.

• Make it a learning experience. Talk to the group and research the root causes that lead to animals being

in shelters. Brainstorm Take Action projects the troop might be able to do to help.

• Avoid these activities while at the rescue or shelter:

o Eating or drinking.

o Sitting or playing on the ground.

o Feeding the animals, unless supervised by shelter personnel and animal contact is controlled with

barriers.

o Contact with animals if you or the animal has an open wound.

o Contact with animal waste.

Petting Zoos and Animal Ambassadors

• Follow rules provided by the zoo.

• Take care to wash hands and sanitize footwear, as directed.

• Do not handle bedding, food, water, or manure unless trained to do so.

Drive-Through Zoos and Parks

• Drive vehicles with secure roofs and doors and windows that fully close.

• Keep windows rolled up.

• Do not get out of the vehicle.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 41 of 226

Swimming with Dolphins and Other Interactive Experiences

• Choose a safe and responsible animal organization. See the “Choosing a Partner Organization” section

below.

• Review safety management with the organization before visiting the site.

• Make sure predators are secured or separated from the group.

• Contact your council for specific approval and guidance for wolf, big cat, shark, or similar interactions.

• Follow any related safety activity checkpoints. For example, follow Swimming Safety Activity Checkpoints

when swimming with dolphins.

Farm Animals and Husbandry

• Ask permission before entering a farm or barnyard.

• Ask if there are areas to avoid.

• Get an orientation from an on-site expert. Learn and follow their safety rules.

• See Horseback Riding Safety Activity Checkpoints if you will work with or ride horses.

Wild Animals

• Learn about the animals that live in the area you frequent or will visit.

• Never approach wild animals. Generally, animals will not attack or bite if left alone.

• Back away if you come across baby animals and assume that there is a protective mother nearby. Backing

away protects you and the babies.

• Report animals that appear sick or behave strangely to the authorities.

• Take special care in snake country:

o Do not stick your hand or foot in places you can’t see.

o Wear closed-toed shoes.

o Use a flashlight when walking at night to avoid stepping on a snake.

o Do not handle snakes, even if you think they are dead.

o Back away slowly if you encounter a snake.

• Never feed wild animals.

• Store food away from tents or cabins and out of the reach of animals. If the site is in bear country, check

with local authorities on precautions to take, and ask if a bearproof canister is required for food.

Choosing Partner Organizations

Select partner organizations that have visitor safety and animal well-being as top priorities.

For visitor safety, look for organizations that:

• Provide handwashing stations.

• Provide an orientation or training on safety rules.

• Supervise visitors.

• Limit visits so animals do not get overwhelmed.

• Keep the environment clean, especially manure pick-up.

• Have food stations for visitors that are separate from animal enclosures.

For animal well-being, look for organizations that:

• Keep animals healthy and cared for with food, clean water, and a sheltered place to rest.

• Do not have animals that sway or pace in their enclosures, as these behaviors can be signs of stress.

• Keep exotic or wild animals only while they recover or because they can’t be reintroduced into the wild.

• Do not engage in the commercial trade of animals or animal parts.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 42 of 226

• Do not breed animals and have measures in place to prevent breeding unless the animals are part of an

authorized release program.

• Do not take in more animals than they can humanely handle.

• Do not use animals for entertainment or force animals to perform acts such as rides, shows, or tricks.

• Operate in the best interest of the animals, rather than for profit.

• Do not allow venomous animals to be handled.

Note: Be wary of places that claim to be sanctuaries, especially those overseas. They often operate for profit and are

likely to exploit animals. Wildlife tourism sites, including those that offer elephant rides, the opportunity to hold

newborn cubs, or the chance to pet tigers, are also potentially exploitive and dangerous. Investigate these beforehand

at the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. Ethical tour operators can be found here.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints  Page 43 of 226 
Backpacking 
Council Approval: Required 
Activity Permitted for: J C S A 
Not Recommended for: Daisies and Brownies 
 
 
About Backpacking 
A backpacker’s primary mission is to explore on foot, while carrying all their gear in a backpack and being a good 
steward of the land. These checkpoints focus on preparing for backpacking in remote areas, but the 
recommendations can be used in urban areas too.  
Backpacking is not recommended for Daisies and Brownies because of the equipment used in backpacking trips 
(see below) and the longer duration of the activity. Hiking is recommended for Daisies and Brownies to prepare 
them for the adventure of backpacking at the next grade level.  
When choosing a destination, connect with your Girl Scout council for site suggestions, such as Girl Scout camps.  
Learn More 
•  AmericanTrails.org 
•  Backpacker.com 
•  LeaveNoTrace.org 
Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers. 
Ask about needs and accommodations. Contact the location and/or local, state, or national parks to inquire about 
their accommodations for people with disabilities. To learn about accessible trails, visit Trail Access Project; find 
tips on gear selection and planning at Pack Your Tent.  
Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could 
affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an 
activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to 
whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy 
the activity. Check out Melanin Base Camp and Diversify Outdoors for resources and inspiration. See the Equity 
section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about expense, 
Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any 
activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident, 
physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.  
   

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 44 of 226

Backpacking Checkpoints

Encourage resource sharing. Have your troop make a list of needed gear and supplies and determine which

items can be shared. This way your group is not bringing more supplies than you need. For communal items,

spread them across backpacks or have troop members rotate carrying them so the load is shared equitably.

Choose an appropriate backpacking route. The route chosen needs to be within the abilities of every person in

the group and the pace needs to be set by the slowest backpacker. Determine the length of the trip by the

backpackers’ grade levels, level of experience and ability, physical condition, nature of the terrain, and weight of

the load to be carried as well as the season and weather conditions, the water quantity and quality, and the

activities planned along the way.

Assess the safety of backpacking sites. The route needs to be known to at least one of the adults or a report

should be obtained in advance to assess potential hazards. Ensure that a land-management or similar agency is

contacted during the trip-planning stage to help with available routes and campsites, recommended group size,

information about water quantity and quality, and permits (if needed).

Assess backpack quality and do a trial run. Check the gear! Troop members should try on the clothes and shoes

they plan to bring to make sure it all fits. Ensure that backpacks and all equipment (including food and water)

weigh no more than 20 percent of each person’s body weight, with a maximum of 35 pounds. Guide troop members

in choosing backpacks, adjusting straps, and taking them on and off. Have them plan and conduct a series of hikes

to practice and build up endurance before the backpacking trip.

Ensure backpackers have a comprehensive understanding of the trip. Group members need to be trained to

be observant of the route, the surroundings, and the fatigue of individuals. Instruction should be given on the

safety rules for backpacking, such as staying together in a group, recognizing poisonous plants, biting or stinging

insects and ticks, respecting wild animals, and behaving effectively in emergencies. Ensure that hikers know how

to read maps, use a compass, navigate a route, and estimate distance.

Prepare for emergencies. Ensure the presence of a waterproof first aid kit and a first aider with a current

certificate in first aid (including adult and child CPR or CPR/AED), who is prepared for extremes of temperature,

such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, frostbite, cold exposure, and hypothermia, as well as sprains, fractures, and

altitude sickness. Ensure that emergency transportation is available, if possible; if any part of the activity is located

30 minutes or more from emergency medical services, ensure the presence of a first aider with Wilderness First

Aid certification. The designated adult should have a working cell phone or satellite messenger for emergencies.

Take safety precautions. Create a trek/risk management plan with the group. Search and rescue procedures for

missing persons should be written out in advance, reviewed, and practiced by youth and adults. Methods of

communication with sources of emergency care, such as police, hospitals, and park and fire officials, should also be

arranged in advance. Write, review, and practice evacuation and emergency plans that cover any foreseeable

situation. File your plan with local authorities, a trusted contact at home, and troop families.

Practice safe backpacking. Progressively challenging treks build skill, experience, and endurance. Backpackers

should successfully complete entry-level hikes before moving on to the next difficulty level. Hiking after dusk is not

recommended. Off-trail hiking must be done with an experienced leader. The group must hike away from the edges

of waterfalls, rock ledges, and slopes with loose rocks. Girl Scouts are never allowed to go on high-altitude climbs.

Safety Gear. Backpacking requires various equipment dependent on the length of the trip, location, and weather,

such as:

• Lightweight, layered clothing and outerwear appropriate for weather conditions

• Water bottle or hydration pack (each person should carry at least one quart—or enough to get to the next

resupply point)

• Non-perishable, high-energy, lightweight foods such as dehydrated meals, fruits, and nuts

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 45 of 226

• Whistle

• “Ten Essentials” emergency survival kit, including a flashlight, first aid kit, extra clothing (including a

waterproof jacket), snacks, tablets for purifying water, emergency shelter, matches in a waterproof

container, knife, map, compass or GPS, and a water bottle

• Backpack appropriate for size and experience of user

• Sturdy hiking/trail footwear with thick soles (optional: soft-soled shoes to wear at campsite after removing

hiking footwear). Wear socks designed for hiking; use either a liner with a thicker sock or high-tech socks

to keep moisture away from feet

• Map and compass or compass and GPS

• Sleeping bag, preferably a mummy or lightweight sleeping bag; closed cell sleeping pad.

• Potable water or water purification supplies (e.g., iodine tablets) to remove potential contaminants from

natural water sources; use water filters designed to remove Giardia Lamblia. See Outdoor Cooking Safety

Activity Checkpoints for purification tips.

• Unbreakable, lightweight knife/fork/spoon combo, with a bowl and cup

• Portable cook stove and fuel whenever possible (to reduce the use of firewood)

• Waste management supplies (toilet paper, garbage bag, plastic trowel to dig a cat hole, hand sanitizer)

• Food storage (check local regulations to find out if a bearproof canister is required)

• A working cell phone for emergencies (in the hands of an adult) or a specific backup plan.

• Hat or bandana

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints  Page 46 of 226 
Bicycling 
Council Approval: May Be Required, especially for long trips 
Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A 
 
 
 
 
About Bicycling 
Cycling is a fun activity that Girl Scouts can enjoy their entire lives. As with all activities, progression through skill 
building and conditioning are very important. Long day cycling trips, mountain and road biking, and long-distance 
cycling trips can be strenuous. The terrain may be difficult. Riders must also carry more gear and supplies than on 
short day trips. For this type of cycling, it is essential to have opportunities to condition themselves beforehand. 
When training for lengthy bicycle trips, set realistic goals for mileage. Plan to gradually increase the distance. For 
instance, one week aim to ride 10 miles and strive for 15 the next.  
Learn More 
•  The League of American Bicyclists 
•  People for Bikes 
•  International Mountain Bicycling Association 
•  NICA Teen Trail Corps 
•  Adventure Cycling Association 
•  USA Cycling 
Find out about mountain bike trails in your area at MTBproject.com. Check with your local bicycle coalition or 
mountain bike association for events that can help you learn. Contact local bike shops and ask if they will host a 
maintenance clinic or guided ride for your group. 
Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers. 
Ask about needs and accommodations. Learn more about the resources and information that the National Center 
on Health, Physical Activity and Disability provides for people with disabilities. 
Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could 
affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an 
activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to 
whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy 
the activity. Owning a bike is not a requirement to participate in biking; contact local bike shops and clubs about 
bicycle rental or loan programs. Groups like Black Girls Do Bike offer supportive information and events; look for 
similar resources that fit your riders’ needs. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints 
for general advice about expense, 
Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any 
activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident, 
physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.  
Bicycling Checkpoints 
Organize cycling groups. Participants should travel in groups of five or six, unless on a bike path, where more can 
ride together. An adult must ride at the head and rear of every two groups. Groups should ride with at least 150 

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 47 of 226

feet (that’s about half the length of a soccer field) between them so that vehicles may pass. Each Girl Scout member

must have their own bike, unless riding tandem. Those riding tandem bikes must have their own seats.

Select a safe cycling site or route. A community bike park is an excellent place to evaluate and practice bike

handling skills. When selecting a trip route, use designated bicycle paths whenever possible. Avoid routes with

heavy traffic and observe all state and local biking rules.

Make careful plans for the type of road or trail to be traveled. For example, secondary roads are quiet, but may

have trees, curves, and hills that obstruct visibility. When planning to cycle on trails, check that trails are

authorized for cycling by contacting land managers or checking jurisdictional websites and maps. Notify

jurisdictional authorities about the group’s trip when necessary.

Know your surroundings. Check the location of emergency and medical services along the route.

Consider your riders. Ensure that the length and terrain of the route, the time of day, weather, and equipment are

appropriate for the riders’ experience levels and physical condition. Review the route together and practice map-

reading skills.

Check the ABCs:

• Air: Check tire pressure and ensure it meets the tire’s specific air requirement.

• Brakes: Check that pads and brakes are adjusted appropriately.

• Chain: Make sure the chain is engaged with gears and shifting smoothly.

Ride safely. Plan to ride only during daylight hours. Ride with the flow of traffic. Obey traffic regulations, signals,

lane markings, and local ordinances pertaining to bicycling. When on natural surface trails, cyclists yield to all

others on the trail, including hikers and those on horseback. Review trail etiquette guidelines.

Help riders learn to:

• Watch the road. Recognize and avoid common roadway hazards like drainage grates and utility access

hole covers, sand, gravel, glass, wet leaves, litter, and other road and trail hazards.

• Communicate and cooperate with other road and trail users.

• Ride defensively, not aggressively. Each person should stay aware of their surroundings and put

themselves in the best position for safety.

• Prepare for the unexpected.

• Pack light. In addition, cyclists should carry a load weight on practice rides that is similar to the load

weight they will carry on the planned, longer trip.

• Practice packing and storing gear. Light gear is stored in bicycle panniers (foldable carriers) or packs on

the back of the bike.

• Practice bike-riding skills in traffic. These include signaling, scanning ahead and behind (especially

before moving left), yielding to oncoming traffic, and making left turns. Riders should travel single file with

traffic but can ride side-by-side briefly in order to pass a slower rider.

• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

• Be aware of hazards. Understand that motor vehicle traffic presents the greatest danger to cyclists. Other

hazards that can also cause cycling accidents include motor oil, wet leaves, parked cars, parked cars with

doors that open in front of a cyclist, and rocks.

• Brake early. Slow down and brake gradually and early, before necessary, especially on curves and when

going downhill. Practice braking under similar conditions before heading out.

• Stop fully. It is important to make a full stop and look left, right, and left again, especially at the end of a

driveway and before entering a street or roadway.

• Walk bikes across busy intersections. Signal properly. Use hand signals to let other cyclists and drivers

know when someone plans to turn and stop. Riders should also let other cyclists know when they plan to

pass before actually passing.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 48 of 226

• Use lights. Keep lights on to increase visibility.

• Make basic repairs. This should be based on what is age appropriate.

• Dress the right way. Dress in layers in cooler temperatures and shed layers as you get warmer. If possible,

avoid cotton and use synthetic fabrics instead because they wick sweat away from the skin. Wear reflective

or light-colored clothing when cycling at dusk and wear bright-colored or fluorescent clothing during the

day. On longer trips in cooler weather, carry extra clothing and rain gear. Remind riders that fancy clothing

isn’t required. Do not wear dangling earrings, bracelets, or necklaces that can tangle in equipment.

• Hydrate and fuel. Everyone needs to bring water (if available, attach a bottle cage to the bike) and energy

bars, trail mix, or other snacks that are light, portable, and easy to eat while at a pit stop.

• Learn emergency moves. Read about and practice the quick stop, rock dodge, and instant turn at Bike

League, which also provides tips for beginners.

On the Day of the Ride

• Stretch your muscles. Before cycling, always warm up. Try walking, jogging, or cycling slowly before going

faster. Gently stretch your hamstrings, quads, and calves, before and especially after riding.

• Be prepared in case of an emergency. Provide a detailed itinerary and plan to call and check in with

someone each day. Carry identification and a list of emergency phone numbers and contact information for

bike repair shops.

• Prepare for the long haul. Adjust bicycles frequently for comfort. Check handlebars after adjusting the

seat for proper leg extension. When stopping for the day, cool down gradually by walking around for a few

minutes—do not stop cycling abruptly. Watch riders so that they do not push beyond their endurance

levels.

Safety Gear. Safety gear needed will depend on the length of your trip, the location, and the weather.

Bicycles should be in good working order and appropriate for the type of ride planned. Seats should be adjusted to

the right height for each rider. Cyclists should have a slight bend in the knee when seated. A seat that is set too low

is a common problem and causes significant discomfort. Watch for seats set too high; a rider’s legs should never be

fully extended.

It is also important to have appropriate pedals for the experience level. Beginners should use flat pedals;

experienced riders may choose clip-in pedals. Protective bicycle helmets with properly fitted safety straps are

required. Helmets should fit comfortably but snugly, be worn level on the head, and not move in any direction

when the chin strap is securely fastened.

The helmet should meet the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F1163-88 requirements. Check the

helmet for a Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) seal.

If you’re not sure about these pieces of safety equipment, have your troop gather at a local bike shop so the experts

can get you all set up!

You will also need a cycling repair kit for each group. Each kit should contain:

• Tire pump

• Spare tubes of appropriate size

• A tire patch kit

• Tools, including tire irons, a screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, pliers, and hex-head (Allen) wrenches

• Lubricating fluid

Each rider should have:

• Front and rear lights, for visibility during the day and at dusk

• Bike bell

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 49 of 226

• Reflectors

• Two water bottles or a hydration pack

• Day pack

• Appropriate clothing, such as bike shorts designed for cycling with wicking fabric

• Non-perishable, high-energy foods such as energy bars, fruits, and nuts

• Cycling gloves (for comfort; optional)

• Stiff-soled athletic shoes such as court shoes for beginners; shoes with clips for experienced riders using

clip-in pedals

• General map and/or bike route map or map app on a smartphone

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 50 of 226

Camping

Council Approval: Required

Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A

Required: At least one adult must be trained in camping as required

by your council.

About Camping

Camping, a great Girl Scout tradition, is one of the very first activities that Girl Scouts’ founder Juliette Gordon Low

encouraged. The key to an enjoyable camping experience is being prepared—by packing just enough gear, supplies,

and weather-appropriate clothing. Girl Scouts advocate for the Leave No Trace method of camping, which involves

leaving a campground the way it exists in nature, free of garbage and human impact.

You can add to the experience with a camp kaper chart, dividing up cooking duties and getting creative when

preplanning outdoor meals. Also, be ready with camp entertainment. Before you go camping, read about camping

stories, songs, activities, and games.

Note: When planning activities to do while camping, remember that Girl Scouts are never allowed to hunt, go on high

altitude climbs, or ride all-terrain vehicles or motorized bikes.

For travel camping—camping as you travel—note the additional safety precautions listed.

Learn More

• American Camp Association

• Reserve America

• Leave No Trace

Camping with Daisies and Brownies

A Daisy troop may participate in an occasional overnight camping experience. Daisies who have completed

kindergarten may independently participate at day camp and in sleepaway camp experiences lasting up to three

nights. Daisies who have completed first grade may independently participate in sleepaway camp experiences

lasting four or more nights.

Travel camping is not recommended for Daisies and Brownies.

Know where to camp when camping with Daisies and Brownies, which includes Girl Scout camps; public, private,

state, and national parks; and sites deemed appropriate by local and state authorities.

Connect with your Girl Scout council for site suggestions and for information on using a non-council-owned site.

Search for campground locations at Reserve America.

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to check with the location in advance to ensure they are

able to accommodate those with disabilities. Discover more about accessible campgrounds, services, and gear in

this REI article: Guide to Adaptive Camping.

Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could

affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an

activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 51 of 226

whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy

the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about

expense,

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

Camping Checkpoints

Safe camping locations. These are Girl Scout camps, public, private, state, and national parks, and sites deemed

appropriate by local and state authorities. Connect with your Girl Scout council for site suggestions and for

information on using a non-council-owned site. The campsite should be able to provide evidence of one million

dollars General Liability insurance and instructor certifications upon request.

Verify leader/instructor knowledge, experience, judgment, and maturity. Ensure that at least one adult is

trained or possesses knowledge, skills, and experience in the following areas:

• Outdoor program activities and leadership

• Emotional responses to trips, including homesickness

• Trip planning in a youth-led environment

• Safety management

• Program activities specific to the trip

• Group dynamics and management

• Outdoor cooking (if relevant)

Ensure that supervision of Girl Scouts and adults for travel camping includes at least two adults who are

additionally trained, or have documented experience, in the following areas:

• Participation in similar trips

• Familiarity with the area in which the trip is conducted

• Physical fitness and skills necessary to support the group

• Chosen mode(s) of transportation

• Site orientation

• Emergency procedures

• Minor maintenance for equipment and vehicles, as appropriate

If travel camping (using campsites as a means of accommodations), verify the following adult certifications and

standards:

• Review Transporting Girl Scouts.

• Share the Checklist for Drivers with drivers.

• For trips by small craft, one adult is currently certified as required by the safety activity checkpoints for any

vehicle or vessel being used (canoe or kayak, for instance).

• For trips that involve swimming, follow the Swimming Safety Activity Checkpoints.

• If a trailer is used, make sure it complies with all state, local, and federal regulations for the areas of travel.

The assigned driver is experienced in pulling a trailer. No one rides in the trailer.

• Ensure that participants receive information about first aid kit procedures, emergency and rescue

procedures, environmental awareness, and program plans for mode of travel and geographic area, as well

as operational procedures (water purification, food preparation, camping equipment, sanitation, and food

storage procedures).

For sites without electric lights and toilet facilities (otherwise known as primitive campsites):

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 52 of 226

• Choose and set up your campsite well before dark.

• Use a previously established campsite if available.

• Make sure the campsite is level, below the tree line, and located at least 200 feet away from all water

sources.

• Avoid fragile mountain meadows and areas with wet soil.

• Avoid camping under dead tree limbs.

• Use existing fire rings if a fire is necessary.

• If a latrine is not available, use individual cat holes—holes for human waste that are at least 200 feet away

from the trail and known water sources—to dispose of human waste. Note: Cat holes are not permitted in

some areas, so follow local sanitary codes or alternative instructions in those areas.

• Wash dishes and do personal bathing at least 200 feet away from water sources.

• Store food in a secure location away from tents and out of reach of animals.

• Where necessary, use a bearproof container to store food or, if allowed or appropriate, hang food at least

10 feet off the ground from a rope that’s stretched between two trees. If the site is in bear country, check

with local authorities for additional precautions.

Sleeping Arrangements

Follow these Girl Scout standards around sleeping:

● Each participant has their own bed and sleeping bag. Parent/guardian permission must be obtained if Girl

Scouts are to share a bed.

● Girl Scouts and adults do not share a bed; however, some councils make exceptions for mothers and their

children.

● It is not mandatory that an adult sleep in the sleeping area (tent, cabin, or designated area) with the group,

but if an adult female does share the sleeping area, there should always be two unrelated adult females

present.

On trips where male volunteers are part of the group, it is not appropriate for them to sleep in the same space as

youth members. Men may participate only when separate sleeping quarters and bathrooms are available for their

use. In some circumstances, such as public venue (museum or mall) overnights, with hundreds of girls, this type of

accommodation may not be possible. If this is the case, men do not supervise youth in the sleeping area of the

event and the adult-to-youth ratio is adjusted accordingly.

Always avoid having men sleep in the same space as girls and women. An exception is made for family members during

events such as parent-daughter or family overnights where one family may sleep together in an area specifically

designated to accommodate families. If possible, men should have their own designated bathroom. If a unisex

bathroom is used, the door must have a working lock, or a system for notifying others that the bathroom is in use.

This system should be reviewed and understood by all participants.

Men should not have to walk through the troop members’ sleeping area to get to the bathroom. When camping in

tents or single room cabins, men should stay in a tent or a cabin that is separate from the Girl Scouts or female

adults.

During family or “he and me” events (in which youth share sleeping accommodations with men), ensure the

sleeping details are clearly explained in a parent/guardian permission slip.

More than one family may use a tent or single-room cabin during these events only if both families agree.

In public venue overnights, such as museums or at malls, ask if there are separate sleeping areas and bathrooms

for men. If no such areas exist, designate an area out of the way or off to the side so that men are not sleeping

alongside the girls.

Safety Gear

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 53 of 226

• Clothing, including a rain jacket or poncho that can be layered and is appropriate for the weather

• Socks with sturdy shoes, hiking boots, or sneakers (no sandals, clogs, flip-flops, or bare feet)

• A sleeping bag that is rated for the anticipated temperature

• A flashlight and other battery-powered lights for indoor use (no candles, kerosene lamps, portable cook

stoves, heaters, or other open-flame devices are to be used inside tents)

• A first aid kit

• Sunscreen

• Insect repellent

• A hat or bandana

• A hat, gloves, and thermal underwear for cool temperatures

• Flame-resistant tents or tarp (no plastic tents)

• A map and either a compass or a GPS

• Mosquito netting, where necessary

• Cooking supplies (pots, pans, utensils, mess kit, dunk bag, etc.)

• A cooler for food storage

• Portable cook stoves and fuel whenever possible (to reduce the use of firewood)

• A flashlight or propane-fueled lantern (for outdoor use)

• A water purification kit

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 54 of 226

Climbing and Adventure Sports—Master Progression Chart

Climbing Type

Grade Levels

Safety Standards and Gear

Additional Information

Slacklining

See Climbing and

Rappelling Safety

Activity Checkpoints.

D, B, J, C, S, A

• Sneakers

• Comfortable clothing

• Specific uniform or

costume

• Slackline

• Check anchors

• Slackline U.S.

Initiatives and Low

Rope Elements

Any element that has a

fall distance of 6 feet or

less.

D, B, J, C, S, A

• Sneakers

• Comfortable clothing

appropriate for weather

• Activity elements and

supplies

• Ultimate Camp Resource Team

Building

• Team Building and Low

Challenge Elements

High Elements

Any element that has a

fall distance of 6 feet or

more.

B, J, C, S, A

Brownies can

participate only

with indoor high

elements

specifically

designed for small

children.

• Climbing helmets

(Union of International

Alpine Association

approved)

• Belaying equipment:

ropes, webbing,

harnesses, hardware,

and helmets that are

designed, tested, and

manufactured for the

purpose of climbing and

size appropriate for

user

• Association for Challenge Course

Technology

Notes:

• If the hosting facility or

instructor indicates the use of

helmets is hazardous for belay,

follow those instructions. They

may not offer helmets for this

reason.

• When the hosting facility or

instructor indicates a helmet is

required, always opt for the

helmet.

Bouldering

Permissible on elements

that have a fall distance

of 6 feet or less.

D, B, J, C, S, A

• Comfortable clothing

• Sneakers

• Spotters

• What is Bouldering?

Artificial Climbing

Walls—Indoor and

Outdoor

B, J, C, S, A

No free climbing

above 6 feet.

Brownies on

indoor walls

designed

specifically for

small children

only.

• Auto belay/harnessed

indoor ropes

• Belaying equipment:

ropes, webbing,

harnesses, hardware,

and helmets that are

designed, tested, and

manufactured for the

purpose of climbing and

size appropriate for

user.

• Indoor Climbing Basics—REI

Notes:

• If the hosting facility or

instructor indicates the use of

helmets is hazardous for belay,

follow those instructions. They

may not offer helmets for this

reason.

• When the hosting facility or

instructor indicates a helmet is

required, always opt for the

helmet.

Recreational Tree-

Climbing

J, C, S, A

• Harnesses

• Helmets if climbing

above 6 feet

• Combining arboriculture,

climbing, and fun, this unique

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 55 of 226

• Rope, webbing, and

hardware designed for

this purpose

activity is described by The Tree

Climbing Planet.

Zip Lining

D*, B*, J, C, S, A

• Harnesses

• Helmet

• Ropes, webbing, and

equipment designed for

this purpose

• Close-fitting clothing;

no dangling clothing or

jewelry

• Sneakers or other

athletic shoes

• *Canopy zipline tours are not

permitted for Daisies or

Brownies

• Daisies can only participate in

playground ziplines

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 56 of 226

Challenge Courses

Council Approval: Required

Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A

For slacklining, see Climbing and Rappelling checkpoints.

About Challenge Courses

A challenge course is a set of structures that provide a setting for physical challenges designed to increase

participants’ self-confidence and physical coordination, to increase group cooperation, and to be fun.

Initiative games and low elements require the group to work together to accomplish mental or physical challenges;

spotters safeguard the movements of each member of the group. High ropes challenge courses involve components

for individual or group challenges that are 6 feet or more off the ground. A safety belay (a rope to secure a person

to an anchor point) is used with a harness and participants wear helmets unless the hosting facility or instructor

indicates the use of helmets is hazardous for belay. Spotters (participants who safeguard the movements of a

member of the group) provide support and protect the head and upper body of a climber in case of a fall.

Each participant must possess the physical strength and technical skills to use the equipment and understand the

safety procedures and consequences of their actions. Connect with your council for suggestions and site approval.

Note: Daisies and Brownies may participate only in activities designed for their ages, with equipment suitable to the

size and ability of each girl. Outdoor high ropes and high elements are only permitted for Juniors and older.

Learn More

• Association for Experiential Education

• Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT)

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to

ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities. Learn more about the resources and information that

the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability provides for people with disabilities.

Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could

affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an

activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to

whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy

the activity. Contact the course staff to discuss how to include all members, considering differences in physical

ability, body size, height, etc. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general

advice about expense,

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

Challenge Course Checkpoints

Here are components to consider and evaluate before selecting a challenge course:

• It is critical to verify instructor knowledge, experience, and participation according to all of the

following criteria.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 57 of 226

• High ropes courses require an instructor trained and certified by a verified agency, such as ACCT, which

includes demonstrated competence in equipment maintenance, safety and rescue techniques, proper use of

the course, and hands-on training.

• Initiative games and low ropes courses require a trained and certified instructor or an instructor with

training and documented experience, according to your council guidelines.

• Written documentation of the completed training as well as proof of participation in routine instructor

review and updates should be provided to you.

• All instructors need to be skilled in selecting appropriate activities, teaching, and supervising spotting and

belaying techniques, and modifying tasks to provide an appropriate experience for the ages and skill levels

in the group.

• Before use, instructors should inspect all equipment, course components, and landing areas.

• A minimum of two instructors must be present.

• Instructor-to-participant ratios must meet the standard as identified by the course manufacturer or

installer and need to comply with industry best practice standards.

Climbing Type

Grade Levels

Safety Standards and Gear

Additional Information

Initiatives and Low

Rope Elements

Any element that has a

fall distance of 6 feet or

less.

D, B, J, C, S, A

• Sneakers

• Comfortable clothing

appropriate for

weather

• Activity elements and

supplies

• Ultimate Camp Resource Team

Building

• Team Building and Low

Challenge Elements

High Elements

Any element that has a

fall distance of 6 feet or

more.

B, J, C, S, A

Brownies can

participate only

with indoor high

elements

specifically

designed for

small children.

• Climbing helmets

(Union of International

Alpine Association

approved)

• Belaying equipment:

ropes, webbing,

harnesses, hardware,

and helmets that are

designed, tested, and

manufactured for the

purpose of climbing

and size appropriate

for user

• Association for Challenge

Course Technology

Notes:

• If the hosting facility or

instructor indicates the use of

helmets is hazardous for belay,

follow those instructions. They

may not offer helmets for this

reason.

• When the hosting facility or

instructor indicates a helmet is

required, always opt for the

helmet.

Ensure equipment is well-maintained. There needs to be a documented maintenance schedule and periodic

inspection by instructors and outside professionals of all artificial structures and equipment used in the activities.

A Use Log should be kept on all equipment that is subject to stress, wear, and deterioration. A written process for

equipment monitoring and retirement should be established and followed by the facility.

Participants learn about and prepare for challenge courses. Instructors teach a set of readiness and action

commands to all participants for climbing, spotting, and belaying. All participants should use gentle muscle warm-

up and stretching activities before beginning physical activities. Instructors must describe the objectives, safety

procedures, and hazards to the participants before beginning an activity.

Participants practice safe challenge course techniques. Spotting techniques are taught, demonstrated, and

practiced by participants prior to any challenge course activity. All activities are appropriately spotted. For

activities where partners are needed, instructors should match participants according to size and skill level, if

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 58 of 226

appropriate. Instructors must supervise all tie-ins, belays, and climbs on high ropes courses and spotting on low

elements courses. Participants must not be stacked more than three levels high vertically (e.g., in a pyramid) at any

time. No one should stand on the middle of someone else’s back.

Safety Gear

Girl Scouts will need their own:

• Sturdy shoes

• Long pants or athletic leggings for activities that may lead to skin abrasions on legs

• Close-fitting clothing (avoid wearing loose clothing, especially around the head and neck)

Course must provide:

• Climbing helmets (with Union of International Alpine Association approved label) must be worn for all

climbing activities in which the participant is more than 6 feet off the ground and by participants standing

in the “fall zone” beneath a climbing element. Helmets are also required for belay, unless the hosting facility

or instructor indicates the use of helmets is hazardous for belay.

• Belaying equipment—including ropes, webbing, harnesses, hardware, and helmets—designed and tested

for this type of activity and appropriate for the size of the user

• A chest harness with seat harness or full-body harness for small-framed climbers

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 59 of 226

Climbing and Rappelling

Includes bouldering and slacklining

Council Approval: Required

Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A

Notes:

• Daisies and Brownies can do bouldering, slacklining, and low-challenge elements.

• Daisies and Brownies may participate only in activities that are designed for their ages, with equipment

suitable to the size and ability of each girl.

• Outdoor high ropes, high elements, and rappelling are only permitted for Girl Scout Juniors and older.

About Climbing and Rappelling

Girl Scouts may participate in various types of climbing, rappelling, and rope adventures.

Bouldering. This sport involves climbing without a rope but at a height not greater than 6 feet off the ground.

Spotters (participants who safeguard the movements of a member of the group) provide support and protect the

head and upper body of a climber in case of a fall. Spotting is used when descending and ascending high elements

or climbing routes.

Top Roping. In this climbing method, the rope is anchored from the top of the climbing route, using belays (safety

ropes to secure a person to an anchor point). The belayer (person who controls the belay/safety line to prevent

long and dangerous falls) is set up at the bottom of the route with the other end of the rope tied to the climber.

Multi-Pitch Climbing. For experienced climbers only, this is a climb on a long route that requires several pitches

the length of a rope or less. (A “pitch” is the rope-length between belay stations). The group climbs to the top of the

first pitch; the lead climber climbs the next pitch, anchors in, and belays each remaining climber individually to the

anchor.

Free Climbing. This method, which involves climbing on rocks or walls without a belay system in place, is not

approved.

Slacklining. A sport and an art that can involve balance training, recreation, and moving meditation. It is similar, at

first glance, to tightrope walking and is accomplished by stretching and tensioning a 1-inch to 2-inch length of

nylon/polyester webbing between two anchor points, most often trees. It is a way of passing time while

maintaining concentration, fitness, core strength, and balance. It can be used as a team-building activity in which

spotters safeguard the movements of each member of the group. Slackliners must be belayed when the line is 6 feet

or higher.

Artificial climbing walls and harnessed indoor ropes are great learning options too.

Learn More

• International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation

• Climbing Magazine

• Indoor Climbing Basics—REI

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 60 of 226

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to

ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities. For more information visit Adaptive Sports at Move

United.

Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could

affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an

activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to

whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy

the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about

expense,

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

Climbing and Rappelling Checkpoints

Verify instructor knowledge and experience.

For bouldering, top roping, and multi-pitch climbing:

• An instructor with documented experience—indicating competence in equipment use, safety and rescue

techniques, proper use of the course, and hands-on training (must provide certification) or documented

experience according to your council’s specific guidelines—directly supervises the group.

• Ensure that there is a regular process of review and update for all instructors.

• A minimum of two instructors needs to be present and instructors should be skilled in selecting

appropriate activities, teaching and supervising spotting and belaying techniques, and modifying tasks to

provide an appropriate experience for the ages and skill levels in the group.

• Before use, instructors must inspect all equipment, course components, and landing areas.

For indoor or outdoor artificial climbing walls and auto belay or harnessed indoor ropes courses:

• Facilitators should have experience, indicating competence in equipment maintenance, safety and rescue

techniques, proper use of the course, and hands-on training.

• A minimum of one facilitator and an additional adult must be present.

• Facilitators need to be skilled in selecting appropriate activities, teaching and supervising spotting and

lowering techniques, and modifying tasks to provide an appropriate experience for the ages and skill levels

in the group.

• Before use, facilitators should inspect all equipment, course components, and landing areas.

Indoor or outdoor artificial climbing walls and auto belay or harnessed indoor ropes courses:

• These activities do not incorporate an element of high risk and can be done by Brownies through

Ambassadors. However, all ages must have appropriately sized harnesses.

• If no harness properly fits a Girl Scout member, that person may not participate in climbing and/or

rappelling.

• Daisies are not permitted to participate in climbing and rappelling.

The instructor-to-participant ratios are:

• Bouldering and Top Roping: One instructor to ten participants.

• Multi-Pitch Climbing: One instructor (qualified lead climber) to three participants.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 61 of 226

Climbing Type

Grade Levels

Safety Standards and Gear

Additional Information

Slacklining

See Climbing and

Rappelling Safety

Activity Checkpoints.

D, B, J, C, S, A

• Sneakers

• Comfortable clothing

• Specific uniform or

costume

• Slackline

• Check anchors

• Slackline U.S.

Bouldering

Permissible on elements

that have a fall distance

of 6 feet or less.

D, B, J, C, S, A

• Comfortable clothing

• Sneakers

• Spotters

• What is Bouldering?

Artificial Climbing

Walls—Indoor and

Outdoor

B, J, C, S, A

No free climbing

above 6 feet.

Brownies on

indoor walls

designed

specifically for

small children

only.

• Auto belay/ harnessed

indoor ropes

• Belaying equipment:

ropes, webbing,

harnesses, hardware,

and helmets that are

designed, tested, and

manufactured for the

purpose of climbing

and size appropriate

for user.

• Indoor Climbing Basics—REI

Notes:

• If the hosting facility or

instructor indicates the use of

helmets is hazardous for belay,

follow those instructions. They

may not offer helmets for this

reason.

• When the hosting facility or

instructor indicates a helmet is

required, always opt for the

helmet.

Select a safe site. Permits and permission requests are filed as required for outdoor natural climbing sites and

facilities. All permanent structures and the belaying system are planned and constructed by experienced

individuals. Plans and procedures are established to avoid unauthorized use of the site, structures, and equipment.

The artificial climbing site must be posted to warn against unauthorized use.

Participants learn about and prepare for climbing and rappelling. Instructors teach a set of readiness and

action commands to all participants for climbing, spotting, and belaying. All participants take part in muscle warm-

up and stretching activities before beginning physical activities. Instructors describe the objectives, safety

procedures, and hazards to the participants before beginning an activity.

Participants practice safe climbing and rappelling techniques. Spotting techniques (if necessary) are taught,

demonstrated, and practiced by participants prior to any climbing or rappelling activity. All activities should be

appropriately spotted. For activities where partners are needed, instructors must match participants according to

size and skill level, if appropriate. Instructors should supervise all tie-ins, belays, and climbs on climbing sites and

spotting on bouldering sites.

Safety Gear

• Climbing helmets (with International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (IAA)-approved label) worn

for all outdoor natural climbing situations where the participant is more than 6 feet off the ground and by

participants standing in the “fall zone” beneath a climbing element. Helmets are also required for belay,

unless the hosting facility or instructor indicates the use of helmets is hazardous for belay.

• A chest harness with a seat harness or a full-body harness, required for specific climbing or ropes activities

• Sturdy shoes

• Close-fitting clothing—loose clothing should be avoided, especially around the head and neck

• Potable drinking water

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 62 of 226

• Raingear, as necessary

• Long pants or athletic leggings are strongly recommended for activities involving potential skin abrasions

on legs

All equipment used for belaying, such as ropes, webbing, harnesses, hardware, and helmets, should be designed and

tested for this type of activity and appropriate for the user’s size.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints  Page 63 of 226 
Recreational Tree Climbing 
Council Approval: Required 
Activity Permitted for: J C S A 
 
 
 
 
About Recreational Tree Climbing 
In recreational tree climbing, climbers explore the beauty of living trees with guided facilitator support. 
Recreational tree climbers use ropes, harnesses, saddles, and climbing techniques to ascend into the crowns of 
trees and the canopies of forests. Care should be taken to keep climbers and trees safe.  
Climbing may be done on branches that have at least 6 inches of living tissue. A full inspection of the health of the 
tree and surrounding area must be made.  
Leave No Trace 
While climbing in natural areas, it is important to respect the environment. Read tips from the Leave No Trace 
Center for Outdoor Ethics. 
Learn More 
•  The Tree Climbing Planet offers courses and resources. 
•  The Global Organization of Tree Climbers has an interactive map to help you find tree-climbing programs. 
Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers. 
Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to 
ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities. For more information, check out Move United to learn 
about adaptive climbing.  
Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could 
affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an 
activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to 
whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy 
the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about 
expense, 
Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any 
activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident, 
physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.  
   

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 64 of 226

Recreational Tree Climbing Checkpoints

Choose a certified instructor. The facilitator needs to have documented experience in leading and teaching tree

climbing.

• Ensure the instructor climbs all routes before participants begin.

• Ensure only instructors clip participants in and out of the tie-in system.

• Ensure a process for managing safety and performing rescues is in place.

Climbing Type

Grade Levels

Safety Standards and Gear

Additional Information

Recreational Tree-

Climbing

J, C, S, A

• Harnesses

• Helmets if climbing

above 6 feet

• Rope, webbing, and

hardware designed for

this purpose

Combining arboriculture, climbing,

and fun, this unique activity is

described by The Tree Climbing

Planet.

Ensure helmet-only areas are clearly designated to protect participants and passersby from falling debris.

File required permits. Contact the park ranger or jurisdictional authority for guidance.

Inspect equipment. The instructor will inspect all equipment before each use. Equipment will be well-maintained.

A Use Log will track wear, stress, and deterioration of gear. Outside professionals should periodically inspect all

trees and equipment. A written process for equipment monitoring and retirement needs to be followed.

Get a weather report. On the morning of the activity, visit Weather.com to determine if conditions are

appropriate. Be prepared to alter the activity plan if weather conditions change. Participants must not climb when

trees or gear are wet. In a storm, take shelter away from all trees and other tall objects. Find the lowest point in an

open flat area. Squat low to the ground, on the balls of the feet, and place hands on knees with head between them.

Participants receive instruction. Instructors must describe the climb’s objectives, safety procedures, and hazards

to the participants. Climbers learn:

• Readiness and action commands.

• Muscle warm-up and stretching techniques.

• Safety procedures and site-specific hazards.

Safety Gear

• Climbing equipment—such as ropes, webbing, harnesses, hardware, and helmets—designed for this

purpose and appropriate for the size of the user

• Climbing helmets worn by all participants who will be more than 6 feet off the ground or on belay; helmets

must be approved by the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA)

• Sturdy shoes

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 65 of 226

Zip Lining

Council Approval: Required

Activity Permitted for: *D *B J C S A

*Canopy Zip Line Tours are Not Permitted for Daisies and Brownies.

*Daisies can only participate in Playground Zip Lines.

About Zip Lining

A zip line consists of a pulley suspended on a cable, usually made of stainless steel, mounted on an incline. It is

designed to enable a user, propelled by gravity, to travel from the top to the bottom of the inclined cable by holding

on to, or attaching to, the freely moving pulley. The various types of zip lines include:

• Playground Zip Lines. These are short and low, intended for child’s play, and found at some playgrounds

and recreation venues. All Girl Scouts are permitted to use them.

• Zip Lines. These are launched from a platform usually accessed by a staircase, ladder, or climbing wall.

They are sometimes found as part of a challenge course. Participants must be able to walk short distances

and climb stairs or ladders. Check with the venue before arrival to determine its rules on age, height, and

weight restrictions. Communicate these restrictions clearly with the troop in advance of the activity.

• Canopy Zip Line Tours. These are guided aerial explorations or transits of the forest canopy, commonly

done by a series of zip lines or aerial walkways with platforms. Canopy tours are not permitted for Daisies

and Brownies. In addition, check with the venue before arrival as many have minimum age requirements as

well as height and weight restrictions. Communicate these restrictions clearly with the troop in advance. If

some cannot participate, consider another location.

Site Selection. Connect with your Girl Scout council for site suggestions. Girl Scouts should use a venue that has

professional accreditation by either the Professional Ropes Course Association (PRCA) or the Association for

Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) to ensure a regulated experience. Both organizations are accredited by the

American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to develop industry standards and regulations.

Note: Each venue sets its own rules regarding the age and weight of participants, and some states regulate zip lines as

amusement rides.

Learn More

• Association for Challenge Course Technology

• Specifications Amusement Ride Safety Act

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to

ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities. Some facilities may have specialized harnesses and a

ramp (instead of stairs, a tower, or a wall) for people who use wheelchairs. Ensure that a member of the facility’s

staff has training and experience helping people with disabilities participate in zip lining. Note: Some venues will

not allow participation if a person has recent or recurring injuries, or muscular or skeletal disorders.

Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could

affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an

activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to

whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 66 of 226

the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about

expense,

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

Zip Lining Checkpoints

Verify instructor knowledge and experience. An instructor with Association of Challenge Course Technology

(ACCT) certification, or similar documented experience, is expected to have knowledge and experience setting stop

ropes, tying required knots, assisting guests in proper harness and helmet fitting, demonstrating proper zipping

techniques, operating the zip line activity, braking guest’s speed upon incoming approach, performing retrievals

and rescues, inspecting equipment, and educating guests about the venue. Ensure that the instructor has provided

written documentation of completed training. In addition, note that there is a regular process of review and update

for all instructors.

Climbing Type

Grade Levels

Safety Standards and Gear

Additional Information

Zip Lining

D*, B*, J, C, S, A

• Harnesses

• Helmet

• Ropes, webbing, and

equipment designed

for this purpose

• Close-fitting clothing;

no dangling clothing or

jewelry

• Sneakers or other

athletic shoes

• Canopy zip line tours are not

permitted for Daisies or

Brownies

• Daisies can only participate in

playground zip lines

Dress appropriately for the activity. Wear long pants or biker shorts, sturdy closed-toe athletic shoes, a helmet,

and a close-fitting top with sleeves. Do not wear dress shoes, sandals, water shoes, flip-flops, skirts, regular shorts,

ponchos, or dangling jewelry of any kind. Leave backpacks, purses, or similar items in a car or locker; do not bring

anything on the zip line.

All participants may be weighed and have their height measured before being issued zip lining equipment.

Girl Scouts learn about and prepare for zip lining. Instructors need to teach a set of readiness and action

commands to all participants before beginning an activity. They must describe the objectives, safety procedures,

and hazards to the participants before beginning.

Prepare for landing. Zip line participants should be provided with a hands-on walk-through of what will happen

at the landing zone when under full speed. Volunteers must attend the orientation session (even if they will not

participate) along with riders and learn what to watch for in order to supervise those in their care.

Girl Scouts practice safe zip line course techniques. Zip line participants should be provided with an

explanation of what each piece of gear is used for. Harnesses are designed to support the human body from the

hips, and hanging upside down is not permitted.

Safety Gear

• Helmet, which must be supplied by the venue; never zip line without helmets

• Harness, which will be supplied by the venue

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Community Clean-Ups

Council Approval: Required

Activity Permitted for: See Specific Project Guidelines below.

About Community Clean-Ups

Community clean-ups can include Adopt-A-Highway programs, beach or river clean-ups, and park or natural area

clean-ups. They may be organized by the troop or be part of a community-wide service project. While doing this

type of community service, you must be aware of the hazards and educate everyone involved.

Note: Clean-ups that are part of a larger sustainable project may qualify as a Take Action project for Girl Scouts to

complete a Journey.

Community Clean-Ups: General Guidelines

• Always check to see if permission is required from the property owner or government agency.

• Hard-sole, closed-toe, and closed-heel shoes are required.

• If clean-up is done in an area of vegetation higher than your shoes, long pants and long-sleeved shirts are

required to protect against insects, hazardous plants, vegetation, etc.

• Adult watchers should have a communication plan using two-way radios or cell phones.

• All adult watchers must carry an emergency warning device, air horn, or whistle.

• An Emergency Action Plan must be created for the event to include communication plans, and all

participants should practice the plan before the clean-up.

• Clean-ups are planned during daylight hours, never at night. Light-reflective gear is helpful even during

daylight hours, particularly on overcast days.

• Clean-up projects require additional information, which is included on permission forms.

Parents/guardians must give expressed permission for the event after having received specific

instructions, including information on the location and environmental conditions.

• In the case of roadway clean-ups, the permission slip must also include how close to the roadway the group

will be working (for example, they will work no closer than within 10 feet of the roadway’s shoulder) as

well as the time duration.

Specific Project Guidelines

Beach Clean-Up (Daisies and above)

• Do not enter water deeper than 6 inches without an adult trained in American Red Cross Water Safety for

Parents and Caregivers or equivalent experience, or a lifeguard, present.

• Hard-sole, closed-toe, and closed-heel water shoes may be used in place of regular shoes.

Public Parks, Community Clean-Ups (Daisies and above)

• Call ahead to determine if any permissions or specific permits are necessary.

• Ensure the safety of the grounds and security of the area by choosing a location that is in a public space

with ample human activity (not remote).

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints  Page 68 of 226 
•  Do not enter any bodies of water such as lakes or large ponds without a lifeguard present. See the Safety 
Activity Checkpoints for Swimming. 
River or Waterway Clean-Ups (Brownies and above) 
•  Do not enter the water on rivers or waterways due to potential unstable bank conditions without a 
lifeguard present. See the Safety Activity Checkpoints for Swimming. 
•  Stay away from swift moving water. 
Highway/Road Clean-Ups (Cadettes and above) 
•  Speed limits of the road where the clean-up is taking place cannot exceed 40 mph. Participants cannot work 
in or around high-risk areas such as bridges, overpasses, medians, roundabouts, and steep slopes. 
•  Contact the owner or government agency (such as the State Department of Transportation) for permission. 
Many states and local governments have specific guidelines and safety rules to follow. Some states have 
safety videos for highway cleanups. 
•  All participants should work facing traffic. 
•  All participants must wear bright clothing or light-reflective gear. 
•  Stay away from rural and winding two-lane roads and highways.  
•  Adult watchers are safety observers at the event. They do not participate in cleaning the area; they observe 
the roadway and participants to identify hazards and activate emergency warnings to avoid danger. 
•  An adult watcher should stand ahead of the group facing traffic to flag cars to slow down. At least one adult 
watcher should be at the front and one at the back of the group. If the two adult watchers cannot keep each 
other in sight, additional adult watchers are required. Use of air horns should be considered to activate an 
emergency response. 
•  Adult watchers must carry an air horn as an emergency warning device. 
•  Use cones or large, bright signs to indicate a clean-up in progress. 
Learn More 
•  Adopt-A-Highway: Contact your state’s Department of Transportation. Many have safety tips, rules 
and regulations, or videos. If your state does not have specific laws concerning adopt-a-highway and 
community clean-ups, reference another state. For example, Wisconsin Department of Transportation 
Adopt-a-Highway Safety. 
•  Understand that waste products on the side of the road and in parks have the potential to be 
hazardous or poisonous. Research what those may be. For an overview of safety guidelines, including 
hazardous materials, view this Michigan Department of Transportation video. 
Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers. 
Ask about needs and accommodations. Ensure state laws that are specific to children with special needs are 
adhered to. For example, the visual or hearing impaired may require very specific laws or guidelines. For more 
information, visit Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in Service Days and Events. 
Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could 
affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an 
activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to 
whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy 
the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about 
expense, 
Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in advance; review it so 
all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident, physical injury, missing 
person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies. 

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 69 of 226

The emergency action plan should include:

• Communication plans.

• Adult-to-youth ratios apply for the number of participants.

• Required adult watchers are not included in the adult/girl ratio.

• Air horns are required for use as an emergency warning device on roadways.

• Whistles or air horns may be used as emergency warning devices on beaches, parks, waterways, and other

areas, not including roadways.

• All should know how to respond to an emergency warning device.

Community Clean-Up Checkpoints

Girl Scouts should plan the activity. Encourage them to plan the location, their desired outcome, safety

precautions, and how to deal with problems that may arise during the clean-up, such as:

• Traffic

• Public interference

• Stress from hot or cold weather

• UV radiation

• Severe weather

• Dangerous animals (snakes, foxes, alligators, jellyfish, etc.) depending on the area you will be working in

• Stinging/biting insects

• Poisonous/toxic plants—poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, wild parsnip

• Where collected trash will be discarded; arrangements or permissions may be required

Be sure participants have a good understanding of potentially hazardous waste they should not touch or

pick up. Discuss this with them. Explain that if they see something, they should say something to an adult. The

checklist below provides examples of hazardous or dangerous materials:

• Abandoned barrels

• Antifreeze

• Any container with a RADIOACTIVE label

• Any container with liquid, including soda bottles

• Broken automotive batteries

• Bulging or dented containers

• Chemical containers

• Containers leaking an unknown substance

• Containers of unidentifiable materials

• Dead animals, sea creatures

• Gas cans

• Hypodermic needles

• Unidentified liquids, powders, chemicals

• Narcotics

• Paint cans

• Pesticide/herbicide containers

• Propane or other fuel canisters

• Sharp objects

• Unidentifiable containers

• Used oil

• Weapons

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 70 of 226

Prompt Girl Scouts to share resources. Encourage them to create a list of safety gear and supplies, and to

determine which resources can be shared.

Choose an appropriate area. Consider terrain, safety, and public access when choosing a location to clean up.

Work with local community groups that may offer clean-up days as part of a larger community beautification

project. Locations are restricted to a reasonable length as determined by age, nature of the terrain, physical

condition of the participants, disabilities, weather conditions, and time of day. The location should always

accommodate everyone interested.

Assess safety of the clean-up area. Safety is of utmost concern during a clean-up. Be aware of the members of the

public participants may encounter when cleaning up, traffic, and the potential hazards listed above. Consider extra

safety precautions for areas where driver vision is restricted, such as curves in roads. Avoid areas with steep drop-

offs. Do not work or stand within 10 feet of the shoulder of the road. Follow all state Adopt-a-Highway safety rules

when working along any roadsides. Ensure that the DOT (Department of Transportation) or a land management or

similar agency is contacted during the planning stage to determine any restricted areas or if any permits are

needed. First aider is required. If any part of the activity is located 30 minutes or more from emergency medical

services, ensure the presence of a first aider with Wilderness First Aid certification.

Ensure adults have a comprehensive understanding of the trip. Group members are trained to be observant of

the area, surroundings, and fatigue of individuals. Instruction is given on safety rules, such as staying together in a

group; recognizing poisonous plants, biting or stinging insects, and ticks; respecting wild animals; and behaving

effectively in emergencies. Ensure that Girl Scouts, based on their level, know the safety precautions.

Permission Slips. Clean-up projects require additional information included on permission slips.

Parents/guardians must give express permission for the event, including specific instructions on the location and

environmental conditions. In the case of roadway clean-ups, the permission slip must also include how close to the

roadway the group will be working (for example, youth will work no closer than within 10 feet of the roadway’s

shoulder).

Safety Gear. The gear you will need will depend on the clean-up project, location, and weather.

• A water bottle or hydration pack with enough water for each person, for the length of the clean-up

• Face mask

• Sturdy footwear

• Sturdy gloves

• Safety vests

• Bright clothing

• Garbage bags

• Tongs (pick-up tool)

• A working cell phone held by designated adult in case of emergencies.

• First aid kit

Additional Safety Gear: Roads and Highways

• Safety cones or triangles to warn drivers of workers along the road or highway

• Red flags for adult watchers at front and back of the group

• Air horn for each adult watcher

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Computer and Internet Use

Council Approval: Not Required

Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A

About Computer and Internet Use

Girl Scouts use the internet for a variety of reasons, including:

• Completing steps toward earning a badge or other similar award online.

• Research topics. Girl Scouts might research other council sites or Girl Scout topics, complete research

needed to earn a badge, or learn more about their community.

• Visit Girl Scouting sites. These can include the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS)

website online or other WAGGGS member countries’ websites.

• Build a website. Members could create a static webpage on the internet (one that looks the same each

time users view it, with no commenting or posting capabilities) or set up a secure, password-protected

website with a calendar and information for troop members and families.

• Blog about Girl Scouting. Groups that are planning a Take Action project, road trip, or camping adventure

can consider documenting their plans and experiences on a council or national blog, and divide up the

documentation duties (e.g., photography, writing, editing) among the group.

• Participate in product programs. Girl Scouts may participate in online Girl Scout product programs.

Adults should monitor websites that youth view, ensuring that they are safe and actively controlled. No one acting

on behalf of members can conduct money-earning activities online with one exception: GSUSA-approved product

programs. For more information, see Cookie and Product Programs Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Most Girl Scouts will go online from their home computers and older girls may access the internet on mobile

phones. For those who cannot go online from home, confirm their ability to access a computer at school or at their

local library. If those are not options, check with your Girl Scout council for suggestions on sites where computers

are available for use.

When planning a group learning session, identify locations such as a library, a Girl Scout program center, a school

or college computer lab, a computer retail store with a training facility, or a museum that provide groups with

opportunities to use computers and access the internet.

Learn More

• Girl Scouts of the USA

• Stop, Think, Connect

Include all Girl Scout Members.

Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers. Ask about needs and accommodations, such as

screen readers for Girl Scouts who are blind or visually impaired. Some members may need adult or peer support

to physically navigate the internet themselves.

Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could

affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an

activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to

whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 72 of 226

the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about

expense,

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

Computer and Internet Use Checkpoints

Copy and distribute the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge. All youth, as well as their parents/guardians, must

read, agree to, and abide by the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge when online.

Ensure Girl Scouts’ safety in website design. They must understand that the internet is an open means of

communication that anyone can access. As such, websites can often attract people other than their intended

audiences and users. It is therefore imperative that any information that could jeopardize the safety and security of

all Girl Scout members is not disclosed on a website. The following measures help to ensure Girl Scouts’ safety

while online:

• Use only first names; never include last names.

• Never post addresses, phone numbers, or email addresses of members.

• Always have a parent or guardian’s permission when using pictures of Girl Scouts on a website. This is

important for all youth, and special regulations apply for children younger than 13 years of age.

• Do not post addresses of group meeting places or dates and times of meetings, events, or trips. Instead, an

adult who wishes to communicate about upcoming events with troop members and families should send an

email or use a secure, password-protected website.

• Do not allow automatic posting of messages to their website. All postings on sites such as message boards

or guest books should have adult oversight and be screened prior to posting live.

• Ensure websites do not show personal email addresses of members but use a troop or group email or an

adult’s email address.

Be aware of shared content. When linking to other websites from your site, make sure site contents are in

keeping with Girl Scout principles and activities. Avoid linking to commercial sites selling merchandise to avoid

implied Girl Scout endorsement of the products they offer. Instead, seek out sites that support participation in Girl

Scouting. These sites should be tasteful and program-level appropriate. They should show diversity, be beneficial

to Girl Scout members, adults, and families, and be consistent with the mission of Girl Scouting. As a courtesy,

consider emailing the site’s webmaster for permission to link to the site. Use similar criteria to determine which

sites you support linking to your group’s website.

Respect copyrighted material. The basic principle is: If it’s not yours, don’t use it. A group’s website may not use

copyrighted designs, text, graphics, or trademarked symbols without specific permission from the copyright or

trademark holder.

Girl Scouts may use trademarks owned by GSUSA, which include the trefoil shape, Daisy and Brownie Girl Scout

pins, contemporary and traditional Girl Scout pins, the words Daisy Girl Scout, Brownie Girl Scout, Junior Girl

Scout, Cadette Girl Scout, Senior Girl Scout, Ambassador Girl Scout, Girl Scouting, Girl Scouts, Girl Scout Cookies,

Brownie Girl Scout Try-Its, Junior Girl Scout badges, all Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout interest project

awards, names, and symbols, and all Girl Scout Journey insignia. Information on the use of GSUSA trademarks can

be found under Terms and Conditions on the footer of each page of the national site.

Keep in mind that Girl Scout trademarks can be used only in accordance with guidelines for their use. The Girl

Scout trefoil, for example, may not be animated or used as wallpaper for a website. Check with your council for

complete graphic guidelines and approval information.

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Note, too, that some names (such as commercial products and cartoon characters) are trademarked and cannot be

incorporated on most websites. Permission is also required from the author or publisher for the use of videos and

music on websites—so don’t post words from copyrighted songs, poems, or books, as permission must be granted

from the record label, publisher, artist, poet, or author.

A troop/group social networking site may be set up by groups whose Girl Scouts are at least 13 years old

and who have obtained parental permission to do so. In addition, all social networking sites (such as Facebook,

Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram) must be approved by the council and must meet age limits set by the provider—

usually 13 years or older in most cases, which is in accordance with the U.S. Child Online Privacy and Protection

Act (COPPA) and the Child Online Protection Act (COPA).

Any appearance in a Girl Scout–related online video or picture requires permission in writing from each

member’s parent or guardian, using the Girl Scout permission form or media release provided by your council.

These completed forms should be held by the adult and/or council.

For information on online product programs, see Cookie and Product Sales Safety Activity Checkpoints.

Other Girl Scout Programs

As part of Girl Scout programs, members may create their own unique website to highlight their program activities.

These program activity website links should only be shared with family, friends, and others the members know

firsthand.

To keep members safe when they use their own websites, keep in mind:

• Parents/caregivers must review and approve a Girl Scout’s website before it goes live.

• For youth under 13 years old, a parent or caregiver must manage their website and be responsible for all

content, communication, and information posted.

• Parents/caregivers must review and approve any pictures and videos before they are posted to the

website. If the youth is under 13 years old, a parent or caregiver must personally post the pictures and

videos to the website themselves—youth under 13 are not permitted to do this.

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Girl Scouts Computer Internet Safety Pledge

Girl Scouts Internet Safety Pledge for all Girl Scouts

On my honor I pledge that,

I will not give out personal information such as my address, telephone number(s), parents’ or guardians’ work

address/telephone number(s), and the name and location of my school without their permission.

I will tell an adult right away if I come across or receive any information that makes me feel uncomfortable.

I will always follow the rules of internet sites, including those rules that are based on age of use, parental approval

and knowledge, and public laws.

I will never agree to get together with someone I “meet” online without first checking with my parents or

guardians. If my parents or guardian agree to a meeting, I will arrange it in a public place and bring a parent or

guardian along.

I will never send a person my picture or anything else without first checking with my parent or guardian.

I will talk with my parent or guardian so that we can set up rules for going online. We will decide on the time of day

that I can be online, the length of time that I can be online, and appropriate areas for me to visit. I will not access

other areas or break these rules without their permission.

I will not use the internet to collect money for Girl Scout products other than what is specifically permitted and

outlined in the safety guidelines related to Girl Scout product sales.

I will practice online “netiquette” (good manners) at all times when online.

I will not spam or hack others.

I will not bully, nor will I tolerate bullying (and I will always tell a trusted adult if this is a problem).

I will not use bad language.

I will be guided by the Girl Scout Promise and Law in all that I do online.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 75 of 226

Virtual Troop Meetings

Council Approval: May Be Required

Activity Permitted for: D, B, J, C, S, A

About Virtual Troop Meetings

Holding virtual troop meetings creates an array of challenges and exciting

opportunities to deliver a powerful Girl Scout experience into the lives of

members. As with all the special experiences that Girl Scouts offers, meeting

virtually creates not only the ability for Girl Scouts to participate regardless of busy schedules, physical ability, lack

of childcare, distance, and other barriers to joining in.

There are so many ways to encourage Girl Scouts to learn and grow and experience life virtually. For every

adventure that can be done in person, there is another that can be shared, taught, and experienced virtually. Adult

volunteers will find it exciting and challenging to bring new experiences to participants through video troop

meetings. Whether it be community service projects, outdoor adventures, cookie sales, badge work, or STEM, there

is a way to meet Girl Scouts where they are and keep them connected.

Privacy and Safety

As with all aspects of technology, it is important to keep in mind that virtual troop meetings can be the target of

unwanted intruders. This can mean either directly by interrupting or lurking in a live virtual meeting or, more

covertly, using data behind the scenes in a manner that has not been authorized or made transparent. Do all that is

possible to learn about the platforms being used to host virtual troop meetings. Choose platforms that are publicly

recognized, reported on by others as favorable and/or transparent about the issues they (the provider) may have

experienced and the steps they are taking to protect users. Become knowledgeable about the terms of use and do

not choose a company that you are unsure about, for any reason, without consulting your council for advice.

It is imperative to personally protect both adult volunteers and youth while holding virtual meetings and

communications online.

• Maintain control of virtual troop meetings. Be ready to block intruders.

• Keep meetings set to private. Do not post meeting links or passwords publicly.

• Teach troop members to use first names only, and keep background space invisible or obscured, keeping

photos and images of members offscreen.

• Operate in a manner and with the knowledge that anything recorded or photographed or “saved” to a

particular site may be misused in the future. Stay away from that sort of situation by making educated

choices. More specific safety steps to follow are included below.

Tips for a Successful Troop Meeting

Make sure everyone can participate. You may have members in your troop or group who live in remote areas

without internet access, have limited access to technology, share devices with multiple family members, or other

circumstances. Make certain to accommodate and include all, regardless of their internet access, before moving

forward with plans to go virtual.

Ensure that your troop utilizes a video conferencing service that is accessible on all types of devices. For

example, you may need to stay away from FaceTime because it is only available to those with an Apple brand

device. Also, the video program should work the same on a cell phone as it does on a laptop or tablet, considering

that participants may or may not be using the same types of devices.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 76 of 226

Adults and volunteers are encouraged to prepare some fun and respectful protocols to agree upon when

meeting virtually. For example, you might agree to speak in turn and not speak over each other, or mute yourself

when there is background noise. You might also consider whether the group will use the chat feature. Think

through your meeting and prepare meeting and agenda notes for what you aim to accomplish during the virtual

meeting, as virtual meetings will flow differently than in-person meetings. Also consider the types of experiences

that happen during in-person meetings (such as group check-in, snack break, etc.) and how you can recreate those

in a virtual setting.

Consider if your Girl Scouts would like to dress a certain way to encourage and strengthen their sense of

belonging. Some troops may wear uniforms to their meetings, while others may not. You may want to suggest

having them wear their vests for the virtual meeting to reinforce their camaraderie or have them vote on how they

would like to show their Girl Scout pride when meeting online.

Consider the grade level and age groups of troop members when planning virtual meetings. Be mindful of

the meeting time(s) that are set or any other factors that may differentiate the context of a virtual meeting between

younger and older Girl Scouts.

Learn More

There are many choices when it comes to free video conferencing services and countless skills one can learn online

ranging from protecting your troop meeting to creating fun ways to interact with members. Explore blogs and

news articles to stay current and to enable you to make the best and safest selections for your virtual troop

meetings. If you are unsure about something, always consult your council. For more ideas for holding virtual

meetings, visit:

• Protect Your Zoom Meeting from Hackers

• The 7 Best Free Video Conferencing Platforms

• Tips for Video Chatting with Young Children

Include all Girl Scout members in a virtual setting. Hosting or leading virtual meetings provides a unique

opportunity to increase inclusion in new ways. The virtual setting can also present new challenges around access.

Recognize that everyone has things they need in order to participate in an online meeting, such as a device,

internet or data access, microphone, camera, and a quiet space. Some may also need closed captions, headphones,

or a screen reader to take in what others are saying during the meeting. Some may need a break from screens or

the ability to move around to stay present.

Talk to Girl Scout members and their caregivers. Ask about needs and accommodations. The goal is that everyone

can participate, as they are.

Once underway, virtual meetings can provide a way for all to have a voice and input into the meeting, potentially

drawing in those who are hesitant or less likely to either attend in person or speak up in a face-to-face meeting.

Some may enjoy reactions or the chat feature, for example, where they can become more comfortable expressing

themselves.

Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could

affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an

activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to

whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy

the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about

expense,

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 77 of 226

Virtual Troop Meeting Checkpoints

Have Girl Scout members take the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge to teach, encourage, and support web

safety and respectful “net-iquette” while online. Review the Computer and Internet Use Safety Activity

Checkpoints and share with participants.

Make sure the adult volunteer troop leader(s) are still co-leading the virtual meeting and are the person(s)

initiating and doing the inviting to the virtual troop meeting. This is especially important for Girl Scouts under

the age of 13. However, this should always be practiced with all in Girl Scouts.

Be sure to research the video conference service when selecting and implementing an appropriate video

conference service provider as a virtual troop meeting host. Be sure to read and understand the terms of use

of the selected platform. Also learn about the privacy guidelines and precautions that are available concerning the

platform prior to implementing your virtual troop meeting.

Make sure the virtual lines are set to private so that only invitees can attend (not a public meeting space). Do

not share sign-up links so that anyone can join. Instead, invite participants individually.

Make sure there is nothing on the virtual stream that identifies someone personally or reveals a personal

address, home address, or a person’s physical location. To further protect privacy of personal space, there is

typically an option to obscure the background in the room. Participants can also pick fun nicknames to identify

themselves on the meeting attendee list or use their first name only. Let the group know about these options so

that they can learn about them.

Continue to adhere to the “two unrelated adult volunteers” rule when gathering with youth virtually. It is

important that everyone understands they are in the same safe Girl Scout space when in a virtual meeting as they

are when attending in-person meetings. They are cared for, and they still have two dedicated unrelated adults

whom they can count on.

Maintain control of images shared. Set meeting controls so that you can mute or disable screen sharing by any

participant. Make sure your co-leader knows how to do the same. If an unauthorized person enters your meeting

space, take action to remove them immediately.

Do not record troop meetings and ask that those in attendance do not record troop meetings. Virtual

meeting platforms may or may not offer a consent option for all attending prior to activating the recording feature.

However, most Girl Scout members are minors and not of age to legally consent. Because of this, recording of

regular recurring troop meetings is not permitted. If the group wants to prepare a special recording session, make

sure to obtain permission slips from each parent or legal guardian, as with any special activity, as well as council

staff approval to record the session. Also, please be aware that virtual meeting platforms may have the capability to

save, store, and can potentially reuse recordings on their technology.

Screen shots taken of the group, particularly when all involved are not aware that it is happening, are

strongly discouraged. Girl Scouts love to take pictures and share them on social media. When done in the right

manner, this is a fun and safe thing to do. However, parents, guardians, and caregivers have their own feelings and

personal rules in their homes about photographs and social media, particularly with younger children, so it is very

important to be respectful of that. Also, as with recording meetings, note that some virtual meeting applications

will save and can potentially reuse photographs taken on their technology.

When sharing any material developed by a third party, be mindful that third-party products and services

may have their own terms of use and privacy policy. The user should always read, understand, and abide by

third-party terms of use.

Be sure that any member emails are not available to anyone but the troop leader. It is important to protect

against unauthorized, uncleared individuals having access to a youth’s email or be able to contact them outside of

the meeting in any manner.

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Remain up-to-date on developments related to online meeting safety from your council and from the meeting

platform you choose.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints  Page 79 of 226 
Cookie and Product Programs 
Council Approval: Not Required 
Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A 
 
 
 
 
 
About the Cookie Program 
The Girl Scout Cookie Program is the largest girl-led business in the United States. Through the Girl Scout Cookie 
Program, members develop five essential skills: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, 
and business ethics. Girl Scout council–sponsored product sales—which include products from official Girl Scout 
Cookie, magazine, and nut vendors—give members proven opportunities to earn money and/or credits for their 
Girl Scout program activities, while contributing significantly to their local councils and communities through Take 
Action projects.  
Learn More 
•  About Girl Scout Cookies: Girl Scouts of the USA. 
•  Selected companies are licensed by Girl Scouts of the USA to produce official Girl Scout products to sell. 
These companies are selected by councils and contracted for one or more years. They include: Little 
Brownie Bakers and ABC Bakers for cookies and Ashdon Farms and Trophy Nut for Fall Product. 
•  The company approved by GSUSA to offer magazine subscription programs is M2 Media Group. M2 Media 
Group provides online tools and activities, and magazine selection and sales take place online—check with 
your council for more details. 
Equity. Product programs often involve more family participation because Girl Scouts cannot market products on 
their own. Be mindful that caregivers in your troop may have different bandwidth to participate. How can you 
support all Girl Scouts in having a fulfilling, successful experience? Can Girl Scouts sell in teams? Or can adults 
rotate being chaperones for booths? Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members 
in your troop that could affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to 
understand how an activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and 
have access to whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills 
needed to enjoy the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general 
advice about expense, 
Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any 
activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident, 
physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.  
   

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 80 of 226

Cookie and Product Program Checkpoints

Sell in designated area(s). Girl Scouts should observe their council’s jurisdiction (by zip code) when marketing

and selling products in person or at a cookie booth. With the Digital Cookie® platform, Girl Scouts may market and

sell to family and friends beyond their council’s jurisdiction. Prospects that are beyond their delivery area should

be referred to GSUSA’s Cookie Finder. Girl Scouts should observe council jurisdictions when selling cookies at a

parent’s or caregiver’s workplace, unless other arrangements are made to accommodate all Girl Scout families

connected to that workplace.

For cookie booth sales, all booth locations are designated and approved by the council or their designee. In

addition, all council guidelines regarding booth set-up and takedown and staffing booth must be followed.

Arrange for adult supervision. Adults should provide supervision and guidance for all program levels, and must

accompany Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors when they are selling, taking orders, and delivering products. Adults

oversee Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors and must be aware of how, when, and where they marketing products.

In addition, an adult must be readily accessible to them when they are participating in product programs. This can

be accomplished by an adult being present with them or by having the adult and Girl Scouts exchange telephone

numbers. Girl Scouts should never sell or deliver cookies alone. Parents, guardians, or caregivers must approve all

member-delivered online orders and supervise all communications and product delivery.

Adults must be present at booth activities with members of any program level.

• For each troop cookie booth, a minimum of two adults (at least one of whom is a registered Girl Scout

volunteer with the required background check) and one Girl Scout should be present at all times.

• Certain locations may be inappropriate for younger Girl Scouts based on the standards of your local

community, may negatively impact the cookie program experience for Girl Scouts and/or may negatively

impact our brand in the community. For additional clarity, Girl Scout should not sell in or in front of

establishments that they themselves cannot legally patronize.

• Additionally, with respect to marijuana dispensaries, we have been steadfastly combating the unauthorized

uses of the Girl Scout trademark by the cannabis community, which has been marketing—without

authorization—certain cannabis products under our youth-appealing brand. We are continuing to

aggressively fight these unauthorized uses of the Girl Scout brand and hope that our councils and

volunteers will join GSUSA’s efforts by discouraging cookie booths at such locations.

• Retail sales without Girl Scouts present are not approved by GSUSA. Councils, troops, and Girl Scouts may

not sell cookies in a retail space where Girl Scouts cannot be present to market, manage inventory, collect,

and process payments for cookies. Store employees and/or adults cannot sell cookies on behalf of a Girl

Scout or troop.

Girl Scouts learn and practice personal protection skills such as:

• Working with adults. The Girl Scout Cookie Program is a youth/adult partnership. Adults should oversee

customer communications.

• Not sharing personal information like address, school, or last name.

• Protecting personal identity by never using direct messaging with people they don’t know online or

through social media platforms.

• Never sharing personal location information, including booth locations.

• Never giving out their phone numbers or personal email addresses.

• Always using the secure sales link from product program vendors for orders.

• Ensuring a first aid kit is available at a booth or a troop “walk-about.”

• Ensuring immediate telephone access to an adult and/or 911 as part of the emergency plan for Cadettes,

Seniors, and Ambassadors.

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Prepare for cookie and product programs with Daisies. Daisies participate in product programs but always

under the direct supervision of an adult. Materials provided by GSUSA for Daisies focus on engaging them in selling

to their circle of friends—only people they know—including neighbors, social groups, and family.

Respect Girl Scout trademarks. “Girl Scout Cookies” and “Girl Scouts” are trademarked by Girl Scouts of the USA

and cannot be used to endorse others’ products or services. Any questions regarding the use of these terms must

be addressed to the council or [email protected]g.

Remember, the Girl Scout name and other terms trademarked by GSUSA, as well as pictures of Girl Scout Cookie

packages or cookies themselves, can be used only by councils and members in conjunction with a Girl Scout

program (e.g., product program). These rights are not transferable to customers or businesses purchasing cookies

for use with gifting or promotional activities. Councils, troops, and members may not use GSUSA’s intellectual

property as part of a vanity URL.

Know what’s in the cookie. Read nutritional and health information on product description sheets provided by

the vendors annually or check GSUSA’s website. Girl Scouts should be able to discuss serving size, nutritional

makeup, and allergen information. Read additional nutrition information at Girl Scout Cookies. Additionally,

recycling information is provided on product containers.

On the Day of a Sale

• Wear a membership pin, uniform, or Girl Scout clothing (e.g., Girl Scout T-shirt) to clearly identify

themselves as Girl Scouts.

• Girl Scouts and accompanying adults should be familiar with the areas and neighborhoods where selling

takes place. Avoid alleys.

• Participate in door-to-door sales during daylight hours only, unless accompanied by an adult.

• When Girl Scouts operate a cookie booth in a public place, adults must be present regardless of the age of

the Girl Scout. When planning booths, follow council guidelines for additional information about setting up

a booth and safety and security suggestions and assistance.

• Use safe pedestrian practices, especially when crossing at busy intersections. Be aware of traffic when

unloading products and passengers from vehicles.

• Never enter someone’s home or vehicle. Only approach vehicles at designated drive-thru cookie booths.

• Do not carry large amounts of money and ensure provisions have been made for safeguarding the money in

advance.

With booth sales, ensure:

• You have adequate space at the booth for tables, products, and troop members that allows for safe

passage by pedestrians, bikes, and cars.

• You maintain a safe distance from cars. If possible, set up a safety barrier between cars and the booth.

• The booth does not block a store entrance or exit.

• When Girl Scouts receive cash from buyers and make change, they hand the money to the adult for

safekeeping. It is important that cash is kept safe and out of sight. This can be accomplished by:

o Keeping the cash box against a wall or behind a barrier.

o Having an adult keep the money by securing it in a front-facing pouch.

o Depositing cash as soon as possible to prevent potential thefts or break-ins of vehicles.

Safe Online Marketing. Girl Scouts may use the internet to share their Cookie Program sales links, stories, and

learnings with the following guidelines.

• Girl Scouts should partner with their troop and their families to learn how to safely run their online

business. They should have a hands-on role in marketing their product program businesses.

• Together, they should review the Digital Marketing Tips for Cookie Entrepreneurs and Their Families.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 82 of 226

• Girl Scouts, volunteers, and caregivers must review and adhere to the Girl Scout Internet Safety Pledge and

Safety Activity Checkpoints for Computer and Internet Use.

• Girl Scouts participating in the product programs may call, text, and send email messages to alert friends

and family to product programs and accept customer commitments via email, text, or telephone.

• Posting sales links to online resale sites is prohibited (eBay, Facebook Marketplace, craigslist). Be aware

posts on Facebook containing the use of a dollar sign ($) may automatically move the post to Facebook

Marketplace. To prevent this, the posting party must disable the automated function.

• Social media ads should not be purchased or donated to promote sales links.

• Girl Scouts may not use the internet to share their fall product links beyond friends and family.

• Parents/caregivers should do the posting for youth under the age of 13. Youth who are 13 or older may use

social networking sites to market products but must follow council and GSUSA guidelines.

• Parents/caregivers must review and approve a Girl Scout’s website before it goes live.

• Parents/caregivers must review and approve any pictures or videos before they are posted to their

website. If the youth is under 13 years old, a parent or caregiver must personally post the pictures and

videos to their website themselves—youth under 13 are not permitted to do this.

• When they are marketing online, they should only use their first names, their troop/group number or

name, and their council’s name.

• Personal emails or street addresses of members should never be used for contacting or responding to

customers. Instead, use one of the following:

o A blind return address account hosted on a secure site, such as that provided by the product

program vendors, where their names and personal email addresses are not revealed to customers.

o A group account monitored by an adult.

o An adult email account supervised by an adult.

• Parents, Girl Scouts, and volunteers should contact and collaborate with their councils and GSUSA in

advance of any national news media opportunities tied to Girl Scouts’ online marketing and sales efforts.

Digital Cookie® Platform. Keep the following also in mind when selling cookies online.

• GSUSA reserves the right to remove or disable product program links for any reason, including violation of

guidance, inventory fulfillment issues, safety issues, or if sales and marketing activity goes viral or

otherwise creates unanticipated disruption.

• Girl Scouts must have their caregiver’s permission to participate in all online activities.

• Read and abide by the Girl Scout Digital Cookie Pledge, GSUSA Internet Safety Pledge, and the Girl Scout

Digital Cookie Pledge.

• Read, understand, and comply with Computer and Internet Use Safety Activity Checkpoints.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 83 of 226

Cross-Country Skiing

Council Approval: May Be Required

Activity Permitted for: B J C S A

Activity Not Recommended for: Daisies

About Cross-Country Skiing

Also referred to as Nordic and XC skiing, cross-country is a form of skiing where skiers rely on their own

locomotion to move across snow-covered terrain, rather than using ski lifts or other forms of assistance. Unlike

downhill skiing, in which the entire boot is attached to the ski, only the toe of the cross-country boot is attached to

the ski.

*Cross-country skiing is not recommended for Daisies due to the complex nature of the cross-country ski and the

fact that young children will typically not learn with ski poles, which means it may be far more difficult for an adult

volunteer to corral and manage a group of Daisies for this activity. Daisies may find it too labor intensive and not

enjoyable, which is why it is not recommended. However, while cross-country skiing is not recommended for

Daisies, it is permitted. So councils located in regions where cross-country skiing with young children is common

and typical may choose to allow this activity.

Know where to cross-country ski: Designated cross-country ski trails are recommended. Connect with your Girl

Scout council for site suggestions and approval. Also, Cross Country Ski Areas Association provides information

about cross-country skiing trails.

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the ski instructor and location and/or the

instructor in advance to ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities. Find tips and inspiration

from a disabled XC skier, and learn more at Move United.

Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could

affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an

activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to

whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy

the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about

expense,

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 84 of 226

Cross-Country Skiing Checkpoints

Verify instructor knowledge and experience. Instruction is given by an adult with experience teaching and/or

supervising cross-country skiing for the ages involved, or has documented experience, according to your council’s

guidelines.

Select a safe site. Girl Scouts are encouraged to plan trip details and include adequate rest periods with

opportunities to replenish fluids and eat high-energy foods (such as fruits and nuts). The nature of the terrain,

potential hazards (such as an avalanche or frozen lake), mileage, and approximate cross-country skiing time should

be known to all group members. When a latrine is not available, individual cat holes located at least 200 feet away

from water sources should be used to dispose of human waste.

Map the course. The route should be marked on a map.

Designate a meeting spot. Before skiing, designate a meeting place where skiers can contact a supervising adult.

Recover from a fall. The act of hoisting back up while wearing skis can be a cumbersome process. Have members

learn how to get back up on their skis prior to beginning the route.

Prepare for emergencies. Ensure the presence of a waterproof first aid kit and a first aider with a current

certificate in first aid, including adult and child CPR or CPR/AED, who is prepared for cases of frostbite, cold

exposure, hypothermia, sprains, fractures, and altitude sickness. Emergency transportation should be available. If

any part of the activity is located 30 minutes or more from emergency medical services, ensure the presence of a

first aider with Wilderness First Aid certification. Participants must be trained in winter survival (such as snow-

cave building, whiteouts, and avalanche avoidance), as needed. Search and rescue procedures are written out in

advance and arrangements are made for medical emergencies and evacuation procedures.

Follow cross-country skiing safety standards. Ski area rules are explained and observed:

• Ski under control to avoid other skiers and objects.

• Yield the right-of-way to those already on the trail. They step to the side to let the faster skier pass. A

descending skier has the right of way.

• A faster skier should indicate the desire to pass by calling “track, please.”

• Never ski close to the edge of an embankment or a cliff.

• Do not walk on ski trails.

Safety and Required Gear

• Skis and ski poles

• Boots

• Water-resistant gloves or mittens

• Heavy insulating socks

• Winter hat

• Thermal underwear or long underwear (as necessary)

• Sunglasses or ski goggles to protect eyes from glare

• Water bottle

• High-energy food (such as fruits and nuts)

• A daypack to carry personal belongings

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Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding 
Council Approval: Required 
Activity Permitted for: *D B J C S A 
*With the appropriate instructors, equipment, and hills/levels, Daisies are 
permitted to participate in skiing and snowboarding.  
 
About Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding 
Whether Girl Scouts are participating in snowboarding or traditional downhill, slalom, super-G, or other types of 
skiing, participants use trails and slopes matched to their abilities.  
Note: Even experienced skiers are not permitted to do aerial tricks on skis or snowboards when skiing or riding as 
part of a Girl Scout activity. 
Learn More 
•  Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI): 
The Snow Pros 
•  National Ski Patrol  
•  U.S. Ski and Snowboard  
•  Locate ski resorts by region: ABC of Snowboarding 
Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers. 
Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to call ahead to the ski and snowboard resort to ensure they 
are able to accommodate those with disabilities—most are extremely accommodating and offer specialized 
instructors and trails for athletes who are blind, deaf or hard of hearing, paraplegic, or who have other conditions. 
Ask to speak to an instructor ahead of time, if appropriate. See Move United’s Skiing and Snowboarding articles.  
Equity. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could 
affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an 
activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to 
whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy 
the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about 
expense, 
Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any 
activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident, 
physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies. 
Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding Checkpoints 
Prepare for physical activity. Skiing and snowboarding might look like standing still, but they require muscle 
strength, balance, and aerobic fitness (as in, healthy lungs and heart)! It takes endurance to stay on the mountain 
for several hours. Encourage participants to get in condition by stretching and exercising before the skiing or 
snowboarding trip. 
Learn how to ride ski lifts. This includes line courtesy, loading and unloading, and emergency procedures.  
Observe the basics. Ski and snowboard under control. Participants should ski responsibly, and not beyond their 
ability level. All rules of the ski area must be explained, learned, and followed. 
Stay on trails. Do not ski off-trail or in an unmarked or closed area.  

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 86 of 226

Be aware of terrain. Avoid objects and obstacles, such as trees, rocks, growth coming up under thin snow

coverage, and melted snow and puddles, which can occur in spring or during fluctuating weather.

Understand right-of-way protocol. Make others aware before you turn. Yield the right-of-way to those already

on the slope. Do not cross the path of other skiers or snowboarders.

Prepare for falls. Move quickly to the side of the trail or slope after falling, unless injured. Plan for how the adults

will accompany Girl Scouts (for instance, one in front and another in back), so that a Girl Scout who falls has

support to put their skis back on, if needed, and is not left behind.

Summon the Ski Patrol if a skier is injured. They are usually dressed in red.

Know the slopes. Ski Slope Ratings Explained details trail ratings, which include green circle as the easiest, blue

square as intermediate, and black diamond for expert skiers and snowboarders. Review the trail maps before

hitting the slopes.

Know where the Medical Clinic at the ski resort (mountain) is located.

Verify instructor knowledge and experience. Instructors are certified by the Professional Ski Instructors of

America (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI) or possess equivalent certification

or documented experience according to your council’s guidelines. Instructors have experience teaching and/or

supervising downhill skiing/snowboarding for the ages involved.

Select a safe downhill skiing and/or snowboarding site. Ensure that terrain and potential hazards are known to

all participants.

Prepare for emergencies. Ensure the presence of a waterproof first aid kit and a first aider with a current

certificate in first aid, including adult and child CPR or CPR/AED, who is prepared to manage cases of frostbite, cold

exposure, hypothermia, sprains, fractures, and altitude sickness.

Ensure emergency transportation. Make sure emergency transportation is available; if any part of the activity is

located 30 minutes or more from emergency medical services, ensure the presence of a first aider with cold

weather/winter wilderness first aid experience.

Safety and Required Gear

• Protective helmet with properly fitting safety harness that meets the Snell Memorial Foundation’s RS-98 or

S-98 standards or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F2040 requirements (or both)

and displays the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) seal

• Ski or snowboarding boots

• Skis or snowboards with bindings

• Ski poles (not needed for snowboarding)

• Sunglasses or ski goggles to protect eyes from glare

• Insulated water-resistant gloves or mittens

• Insulating socks and thermal underwear

• Sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and lip balm for snow glare protection

• Windproof and waterproof ski jacket and pants

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 87 of 226

Fencing

Council Approval: May Be Required

Activity Permitted for: B J C S A

About Fencing

Derived from the word “defense,” fencing is a sport and martial art that involves using swords called foils (practice

swords), sabers, and épées (a fencing sword with a bowl-shaped hand guard). The objective of fencing is to touch

the opponent with the tip of a sword without getting hit by the opponent’s sword. A fencing game (or bout) is

typically three minutes—the first fencer to score five touches (or hits) wins; if neither reaches five within the

designated time, the participant with the most touches wins. If performed correctly and with the proper

equipment, fencing is a safe activity with a low injury rate. Most fencing clubs provide students with a full kit of

equipment.

Daisies can learn about fencing games and the rules of fencing but should use only foam (mock) swords, as the

balance and hand/eye coordination needed to fence are not sufficiently developed at this age.

Learn More

• USA Fencing

• U.S. Fencing Coaches Association: USFCA

• International Fencing Federation

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to

ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities. For more information, visit Move United.

Equity. Fencing is unfamiliar in many areas, so find a club or school program that will support new participants

and meet the group at their level. Check with the provider to ensure adequate, right-sized equipment is available to

use. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could affect

their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an activity is

perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to whatever is

needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy the activity.

See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about expense,

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

Fencing Checkpoints

Verify instructor knowledge and experience. One adult needs to be a certified fencing instructor or have

equivalent certification, or documented experience, in accordance with your council’s guidelines. Ensure that there

is a ratio of one instructor for every ten youth. Fencing is always well supervised and appropriate to age, skill level,

and endurance.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 88 of 226

Note: The instructor-to-participant ratio is different from the adult-to-youth ratio in the Introduction: Standard

Safety Guidelines. Both ratios should be complied with when participating in fencing.

Assess participants’ maturity level. Participants must be old enough to understand safety procedures and handle

equipment so as not to endanger themselves or others. Ensure that swords are appropriate to the age, size,

strength, and ability of the group.

Select a safe site. Check with council staff to see if an approved vendor list is offered. If the council does not have

an approved vendor list, look for organized fencing companies or organizations. Call the facility ahead of time to

determine accommodations for children, and what ages they have experience with.

Always keep the sword pointed in a safe direction. This is an important rule of fencing. A safe direction means

that the sword is pointed away from yourself and other persons, leaning it downward when walking or resting, or

anytime when not jousting. Maintain control of the sword, always.

Ensure the equipment to be used is in good condition. Make sure that the equipment is clean and in good

working order and that nothing is broken or loose. Check that the épée or foil handles and/or wrist and arm guards

are in good repair.

Dress appropriately for the activity. Make sure that all participants avoid wearing dangling earrings, bracelets,

and necklaces that may become entangled in equipment. Also, make sure long hair is tied back and always wear

closed-toed shoes.

Review rules and expectations. The instructor reviews the rules and operating procedures beforehand.

Safety and Required Gear

• Foils, sabers, or épées

• Fencing glove

• Plastron (underarm protector worn on fencing arm)

• Fencing jacket

• Fencing knickers or pants that cover knees

• Long socks that go up to knees (soccer socks are recommended)

• Sneakers or court shoes

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints  Page 89 of 226 
Fishing and Ice Fishing 
Council Approval: May Be Required 
Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A  
 
 
About Fishing and Ice Fishing 
Fishing (also referred to as “angling”) is a sport, a leisurely activity, and a major food industry, depending on whom 
you ask. In the United States, freshwater fishing is more popular than saltwater fishing, and varieties include fly 
fishing, ice fishing, and match fishing. The best times of day to fish depend on a variety of factors, such as amount of 
sunlight, temperature, depth of water, and wind. In general, however, the best times are early in the morning or 
mid-evening.  
Ice fishing, the practice of fishing through a hole cut in the ice of a body of water, is a relaxing wintertime activity—
particularly in northern U.S. states. Ice anglers often sit on stools inside small ice shanties, which provide shelter 
and warmth in cold temperatures. Shanties are typically made of wood or plastic and are rented from sport-fishing 
outlets or made at home. Overall, lakes and ponds tend to be best. Connect with your Girl Scout council for site 
suggestions. Consult state ice angler associations for information about ice fishing events and resources. 
Fishing teaches respect for fish and wildlife. Whenever possible, use barbless hooks, and return live fish to water.  
Learn More 
•  All things fishing: Take Me Fishing  
•  American Sportfishing Association  
•  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 
•  International Game Fish Association 
•  U.S. Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division  
•  Leave No Trace  
•  Video about ice fishing: YouTube 
•  Minimizing fishing’s impact on the environment: Seafood Watch 
Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers. 
Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to 
ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities. For more information and resources, visit Fishing Has 
No Boundaries, and learn about water safety for children with special needs. 
Equity. Consider troop members’ confidence on or around water. Swimming ability can greatly impact participant 
comfort in aquatic settings. Check in with families and help build progressive experiences or options to support 
participation. Consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that 
could affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how 
an activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to 
whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy 
the activity. See the Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about 
expense, 
Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any 
activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident, 
physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies. 
Fishing and Ice Fishing Checkpoints 

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 90 of 226

See Offshore Water Vessel Safety Activity Checkpoints for deep sea fishing trips or any chartered boat fishing trips.

Make sure you have the right life jackets. If wading in water more than knee-deep or fishing from a boat, ensure

that participants wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket (Type III recommended) that fits according to

weight and height specifications. Inspect life jackets to ensure they are in good condition and contain no tears.

Read the U.S. Coast Guard’s Life Jacket Wear/Wearing Your Life Jacket for more information.

Verify instructor knowledge and experience. Ensure the adult or fishing instructor holds American Red Cross

Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers, or possesses equivalent certification or documented experience

(competencies); the ratio of instructor to participant is 1:10. Consider additional adult watchers for groups that are

more scattered and/or not clearly visible at all times.

Observe fishing and environmental regulations. When selecting a fishing location, follow local, state, and

federal fishing regulations and obtain fishing licenses, where required. Use the correct type of bait and fishing gear

permitted in that area, and learn about limits on the number, size, and kind of fish that you can keep.

Verify safety of ice-fishing location. Ensure that ice is solid and thick enough to support the ice fishers’ weight.

Opinions vary about the appropriate thickness of ice for fishing. Generally, the thickness should be between 4 and

6 inches. Your local department of natural resources can provide help. The Department of Natural Resources of the

State of Minnesota also provides guidelines for ice thickness. Once arriving at a lake, check the ice thickness,

keeping in mind that temperature, snow cover, currents, springs, and rough fish all affect the relative safety of ice.

Also, ice is seldom the same thickness over a single body of water and can be 2 feet thick in one place and 1 inch

thick a few yards away. Assess the ice depth at least every 150 feet. Read more on ice-fishing safety.

Know where to find first aid. If any part of the activity is located 30 minutes or more from emergency medical

services, ensure the presence of a first aider with Wilderness First Aid certification. Basic ice rescue techniques

should be practiced. Appropriate rescue equipment needs to be on hand (for example: ring buoy, rope, throw bag,

pole, ladder, and—where necessary—boat).

Safety requirements for various fishing locations:

• From a dock. Fishing from a dock requires the presence of a first aider with American Red Cross water

safety training. The ratio of adult watchers to participants is one to ten, except for Daisies where the ratio is

one to six. Additional adult watchers are necessary for groups that are spread out or out of direct sight.

• Wading above the knee. Fishing while wading above knee-deep: adult(s) overseeing youth should

complete the American Red Cross Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers training or have equivalent

experience. Ensure that all wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket (Type III). The ratio of adult

watchers to participants is one to ten, except for Daisies where the ratio is one to six. Additional adult

watchers are necessary for groups that are spread out or out of direct sight.

• Wading below the knee. When fishing from a shoreline or while wading up to knee-deep, the presence of

a first aider with American Red Cross water safety training is recommended, but not required. However,

Coast Guard–approved personal flotation devices or other water rescue equipment must be provided. The

ratio of adult watchers to participants is one to ten, except for Daisies where the ratio is one to six.

Additional adult watchers are necessary for groups that are spread out or out of direct sight.

• Fishing from small craft. Completes Girl Scouts small craft safety training; the ratio of adult watchers to

participants is one to ten, except for Daisies, where the ratio is one to six. Additional adult watchers are

necessary for groups that are spread out or out of direct sight. See the Safety Activity Checkpoints for the

type of craft being used.

Select appropriate boats for water and passengers. Make sure craft weight and capacity are not exceeded

(some watercrafts will clearly display maximum capacity). Consider weather and water conditions, weight of

passengers, and equipment.

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File a float plan for extensive boat trips. If going on an extended boat fishing trip, file a float plan with a

dependable person who will notify local authorities should your group not return on time. Float plans must include

the names of people on board, destination, craft description, times of departure and return, and additional details

about routes and marine communications. The Coast Guard provides an electronic, printable form.

Remove fishing gear, bait, and any dead fish at the end of the fishing activity.

Safety Gear for General Fishing

• Fishing rod appropriate to the type of fishing

• Fishing tackle (and tackle box) appropriate for the size and skill level of the participants and the type of fish

to be caught

• If wading in water more than knee-deep or fishing from a boat, ensure that each Girl Scout and adult wears

a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket (Type III).

• Tools for removing hooks and cutting lines

• Layered, non-cotton clothing that is easily changeable depending on temperatures (waterproof jacket

recommended)

• Boat shoes, closed-toe and non-slip hiking/sport sandals with heel strap, water socks, or shoes (no flip-

flops)

• Cooler and ice for keeping fish cool and avoiding spoilage (if intended for consumption)

• If fishing from a boat, at least one graspable and throwable Coast Guard–approved personal flotation device

(Type IV buoyant cushion or ring buoy or equivalent) immediately available for each group on the water

• Fishing net

Safety Gear for Ice Fishing

• Snowsuit, warm coat, hat, and mittens

• Lightweight rubber gloves or hunting/fishing gloves

• Waterproof boots that protect against cold temperatures

• Fishing rod (1- to 3-foot rods are most common)

• Fishing tackle (and tackle box) appropriate for the size and skill level of the participants and the type of fish

to be caught

• Tools for removing hooks and cutting lines

• Ice auger (ice saw or chisel); read about augers and other equipment

• Jigging rod/pole or tip-up to catch fish

• Ice bucket and scoop

• At least one graspable and throwable Coast Guard–approved personal flotation device (Type IV buoyant

cushion or ring buoy or equivalent) immediately available for each group on the water

• Flashlight and lantern

• Cooler for storing fish (if intended for consumption)

• Shanty (optional)

• Ice sled for pulling equipment (optional)

• First aid kit

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Ice Safety Quiz

Please read information from both the Minnesota and Wisconsin Departments of Natural Resources’ websites on

ice safety. Then take the quiz below with your troop to check your knowledge!

• Ice Safety—MN Department of Natural Resources

• Ice Safety—WI Department of Natural Resources

True or False

1. Booming and cracking ice is very dangerous.

2. Ice freezes uniformly. If the ice is 12 inches thick in one area of the lake, then it is 12 inches thick

everywhere else.

3. New clear ice is the safest, strongest ice.

4. If you fall through, you should remove your winter clothes immediately in the water to help keep you

afloat.

5. Ice 6 inches thick can support a pickup truck.

6. A ladder can be used to assist someone who has fallen through the ice.

7. Ice claws are simple to make at home and a very convenient tool to help yourself get out of the water.

8. If you were to fall through, you should swim away from where you came from, since that ice must be very

thin.

9. It is recommended to wear a life jacket underneath a winter coat while on the ice.

10. Cold blood can linger in your arms and legs and suddenly rush to your heart and cause cardiac distress.

Short Answer

1. Where can you find information about lake conditions?

2. What are some ways to measure the thickness of the ice?

3. What are some items that you should always bring with you out onto the ice?

4. What five ways can you assist someone exiting the lake after breaking through?

5. After someone falls through and they successfully exit the water, how would you treat them for

hypothermia?

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 93 of 226

Geocaching

Council Approval: Not Required

Activity Permitted for: *D B J C S A

*Daisies are permitted when working with older girls and adults as

part of another outdoor activity.

About Geocaching

Geocaching is a recreational outdoor activity that centers on the use of a global positioning system (GPS) device

and maps. Geocachers seek out caches (waterproof containers containing logbooks and/or trinkets) that have been

hidden just about anywhere in the world, whether in urban areas, in the wilderness, in tree roots, and so on. As

treasure hunters in an international game of hide-and-seek, participants use geocaching to select cache locations

and communicate with other geocachers.

Connect with your council to see if there are caches on council sites. When on private or government property,

follow all posted rules, guidelines, and etiquette. Geocaching routes should outline locations that are prohibited for

placing a cache, so check for those.

“Cache in, trash out” is the motto when practicing Leave No Trace—geocachers are encouraged to leave caching

sites cleaner than they found them and pick up garbage left by others. Geocachers are invited to participate in

International Cache In, Trash Out events, which are worldwide cleanup efforts.

Girl Scouts develop skills about GPS use, latitude, longitude, and reading maps based on grade level. Ideally, each

member uses their own smartphone or GPS device, or two to three cachers can share one. When more than three

participants share a device, it becomes more difficult for everyone to actively participate in the geocaching activity.

Keep in mind that a GPS device provides a direct line measurement from the starting point to a destination; a GPS

does not include the distance around path obstructions such as bodies of water.

Finding a benchmark is key to geocaching. Visit Geocaching.com to learn more. Using a smartphone, GPS device, or

directions provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Geodetic Survey (NGS),

you can seek out NGS survey markers and other items that have been marked in the United States.

Learn More

• Join Geocaching.com

• Terracaching

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to

ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities. See HandiCaching.com to find out about geocaching

for people of all abilities.

Equity. Geocaching requires a smartphone or GPS device. Be mindful about ways to make it more accessible.

Encourage Girl Scouts to share resources, such as by working in small groups, renting from a library, etc. Consider

the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could affect their ability to

equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an activity is perceived.

Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to whatever is needed to

fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy the activity. See the

Equity section of the Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about expense,

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 94 of 226

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

Geocaching Checkpoints

Cachers should learn and understand terrain difficulty ratings. As appropriate for their grade level, Girl Scouts

can plan and have input about where to cache and which caches to locate by reading descriptions of the caches as

well as ratings about difficulty and terrain. Explain about the terrain of a geocaching site by learning about the

Difficulty/Terrain (D/T) Rating ahead of time. The ratings, which range from 1/1 to 5/5, measure the level of

difficulty for finding a cache and for navigating the terrain to the cache. A terrain rating of one typically means the

cache is accessible for people with disabilities.

Dress appropriately for the activity. Avoid wearing dangling earrings, bracelets, and necklaces that may become

entangled in underbrush in wilderness areas. Make sure footwear is appropriate to the location(s) in which you

will be geocaching; closed-toed shoes are required.

Be on the lookout for sharp edges, branches, cliffs, animals, insects, or anything else that may pose a safety

hazard or detour for the group. Be sure to practice Leave No Trace while geocaching so as not to disturb wildlife,

trample vegetation, or cross onto private property. Remove all garbage and discard, as appropriate.

Practice safe geocaching. To prevent injury when searching for caches, inspect areas with care before trekking

into potentially dangerous locations or placing hands into unknown nooks and crannies such as ground holes,

ponds, creeks, or urban buildings and structures.

Safety Gear. The gear you will need depends on the length of your trip, the location, and weather.

• Smartphone with geocaching app, or GPS device

• Compass (for emergencies if going to an unknown or wilderness area)

• Map (for emergencies if going to an unknown or wilderness area)

• Cache coordinates/details uploaded to the GPS device or written out

• First aid kit

• A working cell phone for emergencies (carried by an adult) or a specific backup plan

• Whistle for wilderness areas

• Clothing appropriate for the activity and weather

• Reusable water bottle

• Swag (or “stuff we all get”), which are the items that geocachers place into caches—usually small plastic

toys, key chains, sunglasses—for other geocachers to take once they’ve located a cache

• Topographical and/or standard map of geocaching area if going to an unknown area

• Daypack to carry personal belongings

• Hiking boots for wilderness areas or comfortable and sturdy walking shoes for urban environments

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Go-Karting

Council Approval: Required

Activity Permitted for: J C S A

Note: Go-karts that are privately owned or used for racing are not

permitted.

About Go-Karting

This checkpoint applies to “concession” go-karts, which are those found at amusement parks or other public

facilities with one driver and no more than one passenger. Girl Scouts may participate in go-kart activities that are

on a rail or curb system that helps keep the kart on the track (such as those that are an amusement park ride).

They must follow the weight and height restrictions set by the facility. Go-karts that are privately owned or used

for racing are not permitted.

Currently 44 out of 50 states regulate amusement parks. The six without state oversight are Alabama, Mississippi,

Montana, Nevada, Wyoming, and Utah. These states contain few, if any, amusement parks.

Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities. Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers.

Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to

ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities.

Equity. Find out height and weight restrictions and communicate the information with troop families. If someone

will not be able to participate, find another vendor that provides access to all. Consider the history, culture, and

past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could affect their ability to equally participate in an

activity. Work with members and families to understand how an activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout

members and their families feel comfortable and have access to whatever is needed to fully participate, such as

proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy the activity. See the Equity section of the

Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints for general advice about expense,

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before starting any

activity and review it so all are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident,

physical injury, missing person, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.

2024–2026 Safety Activity Checkpoints Page 96 of 226

Go-Karting Checkpoints

Select a safe site. Choose locations deemed legal and safe by state and local authorities and that meet council

approval.

Verify that all of the facility’s go-karts with two seats have them arranged side-by-side with separate safety belts

for each seat and that all go-karts are built and maintained to manufacturer’s specifications.

All karts must have:

• Passenger padding in place, with everything in good condition (seat bottom, seat back, steering wheel,

headrest, steering column)

• A speed governor to limit speed to no more than 25 miles per hour

• Rollover protection

• Chain and/or belt guards

• Properly guarded/shielded hot and/or moving parts

• Gas caps and all components in place and in proper working condition

• Fuel tanks properly secured with no leaks

• No fiberglass laceration hazards

Safety, warning, and instructional signage must be highly visible, in good repair, and appropriately placed, and

must note exposure risk. In addition, a maintenance program should be in effect for the go-karts, a minimum of two

attendants should be on the track during operations, and no bumping or reckless driving shall be permitted.

Tracks must have:

• A continuous containment system around the entire track except for the pit entrance and exit

• Minimum of a 10-pound BC-rated fire extinguisher, properly mounted, marked, charged, and easily

accessible to the pit attendants

• Within 70 feet of any point on the track, a minimum of a 10-pound BC-rated fire extinguisher must be

properly mounted, marked, charged, and accessible

• Entire perimeter restricts unauthorized access to track area

• Brake and gas controls return automatically and are properly labeled or color coded

Safety Gear

• Protective helmet with properly fitting safety harness that meets the American Society for Testing and

Materials (ASTM) F2416 or F1492 requirements, displaying the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) seal

• Sneakers or sturdy shoes

• Any loose articles of clothing secured

• Long hair tied back or secured

On the Day of Go-Karting

• Dress appropriately. Avoid wearing dangling earrings, bracelets, and necklaces that may become

entangled in equipment.

• Practice safe go-kart procedures. Do not ram or bump into other go-karts.

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Hayrides

Council Approval: Required

Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A

About Hayrides

A hayride, also known as a hayrack ride, is a traditional activity in the U.S. and Canada consisting of a recreational

ride in a wagon or cart pulled by a tractor, horses, or truck that has been loaded with hay or straw for comfortable

seating. Hayrides originated with farm workers, including children, who rode loaded hay wagons back to barns for

unloading. It was one of the few times during the frenetic days of the haying season that workers could stop to rest.

Hayrides are a fun and enjoyable activity for all ages who are visiting a farm and the rides are often part of other

autumn festivities such as apple or pumpkin picking. Hayrides on Halloween are often dubbed “haunted hayrides.”

These hayrides sometimes incorporate special effects and actors portraying ghosts, monsters, and other spooky

creatures to attract thrill seekers and capitalize on the Halloween season.

Although hayrides are typically regarded as a safe and lighthearted activity, there have been incidents where

hayrides have flipped or veered off the road, resulting in terrible consequences. Therefore, it is very important to

follow the safety precautions and learn as much as you can about hayride safety ahead of time.

Learn More

• On farm and dairy hayride safety and hayride safety checklist: Safe Agritourism