Two-deep leadership

Two registered adult leaders or one registered adult leader and a parent of a participant, one of whom must be at least 21 years of age or older, are required on all trips and outings. The chartered organization is responsible for ensuring that sufficient leadership is provided for all activities. Two-deep leadership on trips and outings is a minimum requirement. On many outings, it is advisable to have more than two. And having more than two adult leaders will prevent problems in case one cannot attend for some reason. In addition to two-deep leadership, all outings requiring local and national tour permits must include an adult leader who has been Youth Protection trained. These rules are designed to not only keep your Troop safe, but to protect our adult leaders as well.

No one-on-one contact

One-on-one contact between adults and youth members is not permitted. In situations that require personal conferences, such as a Scoutmaster's conference, the meeting is to be conducted in view of other adults and youths.

Respect for privacy

Adult leaders must respect the privacy of youth members in situations such as changing clothes and taking showers at camp, and intrude only to the extent that health and safety require. Adults must protect their own privacy in similar situations.

Separate accommodations

When camping, no youth is permitted to sleep in the tent of an adult other than his own parent or guardian. Councils are strongly encouraged to have separate shower and latrine facilities for females. When separate facilities are not available, separate times for male and female use should be scheduled and posted for showers.

Proper preparation for high-adventure activities

Activities with elements of risk should never be undertaken without proper preparation, equipment, clothing, supervision, and safety measures. Placing children in potentially dangerous situations without proper supervision, preparation, and equipment constitutes neglect under the laws of most states.

In addition, pressuring children who are not adequately prepared to participate in physically demanding activities may be a form of emotional abuse.

No secret organizations

The Boy Scouts of America does not recognize any secret organization as part of its program. All aspects of the Scouting program are open to observation by parents and leaders.

Appropriate attire

Proper clothing for activities is required. For example, skinny-dipping is not appropriate as part of Scouting.

Constructive discipline

Discipline used in Scouting should be constructive and reflect Scouting values. Corporal punishment is never permitted.

Hazing Prohibited

Physical hazing and initiations are prohibited and may not be included as part of any Scouting activity.

Junior leader training and supervision

Adult leaders must monitor and guide the leadership techniques used by junior leaders and ensure that BSA policies are followed.

Youth Member Responsibilities

All members of the Boy Scouts of America are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the principles set forth in the Scout Oath and Law. Physical violence, hazing, bullying, theft, verbal insults, and drugs and alcohol have no place in the Scouting program and may result in the revocation of a Scout membership in the unit. Units should consult with the parents of members who fail to meet behavior standards.

Unit Responsibilities

Adult leaders of Scouting units are responsible for monitoring the behavior of youth members and interceding when necessary. Parents of youth members who misbehave should be informed and asked for assistance in dealing with it. The unit committee should review repetitive or serious incidents or misbehavior in consultation with the parents of the child to determine a course of corrective action including possible revocation of the youth's membership in the unit.

If problem behavior persists, units may revoke a Scout's membership in that unit. When a unit revokes a Scout's membership, it should promptly notify the council of the action.

The unit should inform the Scout executive about all incidents that result in a physical injury or involve allegations of sexual misconduct by a youth member with another youth member.

Reporting Responsibilities