Announcements
YOUTH PROTECTION GUIDELINES
All adults and youth, regardless of registration status must follow Youth Protection guidelines when involved in Scouting.
BSA requirements
~ BSA Youth Protection Training modules and test. This can be taken in person or online by logging into your my.scouting.org portal
~ BSA authorization for enhanced background check
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY
Troop 140 camps nearly every month. Please expect to have a planned outdoor activity occur. We will follow the Guide to Safe Scouting and events may be cancelled if it is deemed unsafe. However remember COMFORT and SAFETY are two different things. We will plan for safety and you need to plan for personal comfort.
MEETINGS:
Troop guidelines for inclement weather (ice/snow) for regular troop meetings.
We follow the recommendations of the Oregon City Police Dept. and School District. These allow us to use multiple media outlets to notify our families the fastest.
1. If school is cancelled for the day - the troop meeting is cancelled also.
2. If the students are sent home early or District evening activities are cancelled - Troop meeting will be cancelled.
OUTDOOR EVENTS & CAMPING
These are the guidelines for weather hazards (snow, ice, high winds, thunderstorms, etc) for outdoor events and camping trips:
1. Parents should be available during the outings in the event that we return early due to weather hazards. Make sure your scout knows how to reach you.
2. Drivers should have vehicles in good working order with appropriate gear for handling snowy or rainy conditions, including carrying chains, having good tires and wipers, and be prepared for conditions as they arise. Each vehicle must have a First Aid kit.
3. Discipline. Rules are effective only when followed. All participants should know, understand, and respect the rules and procedures for a safe camping experience. Those violating safety rules will be sent home.
4. Equipment. Weather can change in a moment so be prepared. Be completely outfitted for cold weather. Equipment should be checked to ensure good condition for the activity and proper maintenance while in use. Scouts should be adequately clothed, and blankets should be a suitable quality and weight.
TIP: Use alkaline batteries in flashlights, as standard batteries deteriorate quickly in cold weather.
TIP: Encourage youths to wear brightly colored clothing so they are more visible during severe weather.
TIP: Drink more water than usual as your body needs this to keep warm.
As most weather events last for only a short time, we may change the length of the event or the location. Overnight events may leave in the morning instead of evening departure or become a day event instead of overnight. The type of event may even change completely. The goal is to safely gather a friends for a shorter time rather than cancel, if practical.
No matter what, I and all of the volunteers for Troop 140 want Scouts and their parents to use good judgment. If you, your parent, or other adult are uncomfortable about conditions, please take appropriate measures, including not coming to events and/or meetings.
If at any time a parent or scout feels that conditions are not safe, the committee and Scoutmaster want you to feel comfortable to speak up and express that opinion. We, as a group, will discuss and decide how to proceed.
The safety of all members of Troop 140 is our top priority. Please take care.