For some activities, an expert must be on hand to help girls learn
and/or keep them safe. For example, a lifeguard keeps girls safe
while swimming. A climbing instructor helps girls learn and keeps them
safe while rock climbing. The Safety Activity Checkpoints will tell you when
an expert is needed and will provide guidance on what makes a
qualified expert.
An expert should:
- Have the knowledge and experience to make appropriate
judgments about participants, equipment, facilities use, safety, and
procedures for a given activity
- Have the proper skill
set
- Be mature—maturity and years of experience matter. For
example, a 21 year-old qualified lifeguard is preferable to an 18
year-old lifeguard.
- Be able to give clear instructions
- Troubleshoot unexpected scenarios
- Take appropriate
action in an emergency
The event or troop leader is responsible for sharing Safety Activity Checkpoints with experts,
reviewing safety plans, and confirming that safety guidelines will be
followed. Contact the adult
learning manager with questions about experts or instructors.
To find an expert:
Review our list of community
partners. Our partners have demonstrated a commitment to Girl
Scouting. They also have documented experience and have provided proof
of liability insurance. You can also check out our
additional vendors who have provided a
certificate of liability insurance. Providing proof of insurance is
the minimum compliance level for activities that require
approval. When selecting from additional vendors, make sure that
activities high quality and a good value.
Want to use another expert? Have the expert upload their certificate of insurance. Then, let
your activity consultant know you’ve taken this step. Note that
certificates of liability don’t need to be collected for government
entities, like city, state, or national parks.
If you’ve identified an expert who has experience but doesn’t hold
the certification described in the SACs, contact training@sdgirlscouts.org.
Often, a comparable resume or certification can be accepted.