Explain safe trip afloat
Any activity involving small watercraft — canoeing, kayaking, rowing, rafting, or sailing — must follow the nine-point safety standard of BSA Safety Afloat.
The Nine Points of Safety Afloat
Qualified Supervision
All trips afloat must be supervised by a mature adult leader (at least 21 years old) who is currently trained in Safety Afloat (renewed every two years). The supervisor must be experienced in operating the specific watercraft used, knowledgeable in water safety and accident prevention, and prepared for emergency rescue procedures. Maintain at least one supervisor for every 10 participants (with more supervisors in whitewater or challenging conditions).
Personal Health Review
Each participant must provide a current, completed Annual Health and Medical Record. The leader reviews medical histories to be aware of any health conditions (such as asthma, allergies, seizures, or diabetes) that require extra precautions or accommodation on the water.
Swimming Ability
All persons operating or paddling a boat must have passed the official BSA swimmer classification test. Those who are classified as beginners or nonswimmers may only ride as passengers in a boat operated by skilled adult/swimmer personnel in calm, controlled conditions.
Life Jackets (PFDs)
Properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets must be worn by every person participating in boating activities at all times while on the water or near dangerous rapids — no exceptions.
- Type III life jackets (vest-style flotation aids) are strongly recommended for general recreational paddling because they allow full arm mobility.
- Proper Fit & The Shoulder Pull Test: Fasten all buckles, zippers, and cinch straps snugly. Have a partner grasp the shoulder straps of your life jacket and pull upward firmly. The jacket should not ride up over your chin, nose, or ears; if it slips upward, tighten the straps or switch to a smaller size.
Buddy System
Every person must have an assigned buddy, and every boat on the water must have a buddy boat. A minimum of two watercraft must travel together within visual and voice range to assist one another in case of capsizing or equipment failure. Buddy checks are conducted at regular intervals throughout the trip.
Skill Proficiency
All participants must receive instruction and demonstrate basic handling skills before embarking, including:
- Boarding and exiting safely.
- Basic propulsion and turning strokes.
- Trimming the boat for stability.
- Emergency procedures and self-rescue techniques (such as what to do during a capsize).
Planning
A comprehensive Float Plan must be developed and reviewed before departure:
- Itinerary & Route: Define clear put-in points, take-out locations, estimated paddling times, rest stops, and alternate takeout points.
- Notification: File a copy of the float plan with parents, the local council service center (if traveling on open or moving water), and local park rangers/authorities. Designate an adult on shore to contact emergency services if check-ins are overdue.
- Weather & Water Conditions: Monitor current weather forecasts and river flow gauges. Anticipate changes and bring all craft ashore immediately if severe weather or thunderstorms approach. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning flash or sound of thunder before returning to the water.
- Contingencies: Identify nearest medical facilities, ranger stations, and emergency communication methods.
Proper Equipment
- All watercraft must be sound, clean, and structurally suited for the waterway.
- Provide properly sized paddles or oars, plus at least one spare paddle per boat.
- Equip each boat with essential gear: a bailer or sponge, a painter (bow and stern lines), a throw bag or rescue line, a first aid kit, extra drinking water, and dry bags for spare clothing.
Discipline
Scouts respect the rules and obey instructions from the trip supervisor and adult leaders immediately and without hesitation. Leaders have full authority to alter or cancel a trip if safety standards are not being met.