Guide to Safe Scouting - Transporting Scouts

Post date: May 16, 2013 5:38:37 PM

Vehicles are crucial in so many aspects of Scouting. Transporting Scouts and Scouters takes up a significant part of any outing or event. Just as leaders plan the activities, the same diligence and care should go into the plans for transportation. Data from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration reports an average of 117 people die each day in motor vehicles crashes. More than 40 percent of the fatalities were occupants in cars, light trucks, and sport utility vehicles.

The BSA’s Guide to Safe Scouting provides guidelines and policies addressing the transporting of Scouts and leaders during Scouting-related activities. The first general guideline is that safety belts are required for all occupants and must be worn correctly. Wearing the safety belt correctly means the shoulder strap should not be behind the occupant’s back. Here are other important guidelines:

• The driver must be currently licensed and at least 18 years of age. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license that has not been suspended or revoked for any reason.

• An adult leader (at least 21 years of age) must be in charge and accompany the group.

• All driving, except short trips, should be done in daylight.

• Obey all traffic laws, including the speed limit.

• Do not travel in a convoy.

• Driving time is limited to a maximum of 10 hours and must be interrupted by frequent rest, food, and recreation stops. Do not drive drowsy.

• All passengers must be in a vehicle seat. Passengers cannot ride in the back deck of station wagons or SUVs.

• Trucks may not be used for transporting passengers, except in the cab.

Refer to the Guide to Safe Scouting, for a full listing of guidelines. Well-thought-out plans help ensure the full enjoyment of the trip for everyone. Include everyone during planning, not just the leader. Involving everyone in the planning makes each member responsible and gives each person a stake in the success of the activity.