Introduction to Safety Activity Checkpoints

Safety Activity Checkpoints in Spanish - click here!

When preparing for any activity with girls, always begin with the Safety Activity Checkpoints written specifically for that particular activity. This introduction provides an overview of the format of each set of checkpoints. Note: In addition to reading these checkpoints yourself, you can also e-mail or print them for co-volunteers, parents/guardians, and girls.

Know where to do the activity. Quick list of the most common places girls carry out the activity

Include girls with disabilities. Tips and special Web sites for information on including girls with disabilities

Gear

Basic Gear includes clothing and equipment girls are likely to already have in their possession.

Specialized Gear includes clothing and equipment girls may need to purchase, rent, or borrow.

Prepare for the Activity

These checkpoints discuss steps to take in advance of the activity. Not every category is listed here, and not every activity includes these categories.

Communicate with council and parents. Tips for following council guidelines and keeping parents informed
Ensure prerequisites. Ranges from an ability to swim to knowledge of primitive camping
Arrange for transportation and adult supervision. Recommended adult-to-girl ratios for this activity
Verify instructor knowledge and experience. Ensuring the volunteers or on-site instructors possess the proper skill set, knowledge, experience, and/or training/certification
Select a safe site. A game plan for ensuring the safest experience possible
Compile key contacts. Information on itineraries, phone trees, and other contact information
Respect the environment. Tips for ensuring environmental responsibility
Prepare for emergencies. First-aider requirements and other emergency precautions

On the Day of the Activity

These checkpoints include important final reminders on the day of the activity. Not every category is listed here, and not every activity includes these categories.

Get a weather report. Ways to monitor the weather for any outdoor activity and/or activity requiring transportation
Review rescue tips. Activity-specific rescue tips
Use the buddy system. The best way to ensure no one is separated from the group or unable to get help
Be prepared in the event of a storm with lightning. Special details for outdoor warm-weather activities

Links guide you to the best-known and best-respected Web sites.

Know-How for Girls offers games, mini-lessons, and other fun ways to expand girls’ knowledge.

Jargon helps you and the girls master activity-specific terminology.