Been There, Done That, Got the Patch

By Greg Gamache

One of the fun aspects of Scouting for both Scouts and adults is collecting patches from each trip. Whether the patches are worn on a uniform or jacket or just kept in a box, they bring back memories of the trip, the event and the places we have seen. Unfortunately, sometimes the collecting can become more the focus of attention then the trips or events. It is really not uncommon for Scouts to decline to go on a hike or event because they already "got the patch." This is unfortunate because a goal we have as leaders is to instill in our youth an appreciation of the outdoors and the healthy recreational activities found in the Scouting program.

Working to turn around the "Been There - Done That" mindset in scouts is an uphill struggle we might never win. But when it comes to safety training, it is a struggle an adult leader can never give up. The Scouting program has a number of short safety-oriented courses for both scouts and adults. Many of these courses reward the participants with a card and often a patch! Whittling for Cub Scouts and later the Totin' Chip and Firem'n Chit for Boy Scouts are probably the first safety oriented patches and cards that a Scout earns.

Throughout the Scouting requirements for both rank advancement and merit badges there are short safety courses built into the program. For adults these are presented as separate courses. The topics include CPR, First Aid, Safety Afloat, Safe Swim Defense, Climb on Safely, Archery, and Youth Protection. The handbook Guide to Safe Scouting has safety guidelines for all scouting approved activities such as cycling, hiking and camping. In fact, to get a tour permit, an adult leader must certify that they have read this handbook.

But, take a close look at that CPR and First Aid card issued by the Red Cross or any of the BSA safety course cards issued to adults. You will find an expiration date. That date exists because "Been There - Done That" is not enough! Only lessons that are repeated are truly learned and then incorporated into behavior. Although safety lessons are repeated frequently in rank and merit badge requirements, the Scouting program does not have expiration dates for most safety training. It is up to the adult leaders, therefore, to ensure that the safety material is reinforced through constant repetition. This training should be incorporated as a regular part of each unit's annual program. Scouts need to repeatedly be presented safety material for the activities they are involved in, even if they already "Got the Patch!"

Accomplishing this repetitive safety training without loosing the interest of the Scouts is the true test of the adult leader. Involving the Scouts in these training activities is the key. In order to teach you have to learn. Older Scouts and those who already "got the patch" should be encouraged to lead safety training during unit meetings and at the beginning of every outdoor activity. Cub Scouts especially will listen to every word a Den Chief says. The safety material is easy enough to find. It is in the scout handbooks and the Guide to Safe Scouting. Developing skits, lectures and hands-on activities for the training is limited only by the imagination of the Scouts and their leaders.

During repeated safety training sessions, the Scouts will learn the safety material presented. But keep in mind, they will also adopt the attitude toward safety as demonstrated by their adult leaders. Even if you have "Been There - Done That" a hundred times, as an adult leader, you need to pay close attention to the training and not be distracted with conversations or other concerns. And remember the parents who may be participating in a unit activity for the first time. Gently encourage them to pay attention and demonstrate that with your own behavior.

Incorporating safety guidelines into the unit's program and activities through repeated training ensures that Scouts and adults can continue to "go there and do that" over and over again - safely - and with good memories.