Hazardous Trees in Scouting

Recognizing and Managing Tree Hazards

Scouting adventures thrive in the great outdoors—along trails, at campsites, deep in forests, and beneath the shelter of towering trees. Nature offers an ideal setting for learning, exploration, and leadership, but it also brings inherent risks. One of the most often overlooked, yet potentially life-threatening, hazards is the presence of hazardous trees.

Each year, falling trees and limbs cause serious injuries, fatalities, and significant property damage. In Scouting, where youth and adults spend extended time in wooded environments, recognizing and managing tree hazards isn’t just good practice, it’s a critical component of safety.

What Is a Hazardous Tree?

A hazardous tree poses a risk of falling or dropping limbs due to disease, structural defects, environmental stress or other conditions. These trees are more likely to drop limbs or fall suddenly, especially during high winds or storms, but can happen at any time.

Hazardous trees can:

· Cause serious injury or death

· Destroy tents, vehicles, or other property

· Obstruct trails, emergency routes, or camp access roads

Preparedness begins with awareness—especially of what’s overhead.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Not all dangerous trees look obviously hazardous. During pre-event checks and daily walk-throughs, look for these common red flags:

· Dead or dying limbs or sections of the trunk

· Large cracks or splits in branches or trunk

· Broken or hanging limbs, known as “widow-makers”

· Noticeable lean, especially with exposed or damaged roots

· Uplifted, rotting, or decayed root systems

· Cavities, rot, or fungal growth near the base or on the trunk

· Signs of insect activity or internal decay (e.g., carpenter ants, mushrooms, woodpecker holes)

Even trees that appear healthy can fall in poor weather or saturated ground. Regular visual inspections are an essential part of outdoor safety. With all Scout activities, use the SAFE Checklist when planning especially the two key points relating to hazardous trees—Assessment and Environment.

Using the SAFE Checklist

All Scout activities should be planned using the SAFE framework:

· Supervision – Qualified adults oversee all aspects of safety.

· Assessment – Identify and evaluate potential hazards, including trees.

· Fitness & Skill – Ensure physical and skill readiness for conditions.

· Equipment & Environment – Check natural surroundings for safety.

In the context of hazardous trees, Assessment and Environment are key.

Before Campouts or Outdoor Events:

· Inspect campsites and activity zones for signs of hazardous trees.

· Avoid placing tents or program areas under dead, leaning, or visibly damaged trees.

· Make tree safety checks a part of your standard pre-event safety walkthrough.

· Use a tree inspection checklist for properties that are regularly maintained or frequently used.

During Events:

· Monitor trees closely, especially after storms or strong winds.

· Instruct Scouts and adults not to climb or play near questionable trees.

· Respond immediately to any signs of tree failure (e.g., loud cracks, sudden leaning, or falling debris). · Use a SAFETY PAUSE, if conditions change or new hazards appear

Be Prepared, Be SAFE

Be Prepared is Scouting’s Motto. Taking a few extra minutes to evaluate trees around your site can prevent injuries and protect our Scouting community. Make tree safety a standard part of your event planning, site setup, and daily operations. By staying alert and proactive, we uphold Scouting’s core values of safety, preparedness, and responsible stewardship of the outdoors. Be SAFE

For additional information, review the new resource from the National Conservation Subcommittee on: Recognizing and Mitigating Hazard Trees