Slip-Free Scouting: Winter Safety Tips

Winter is one of the most rewarding seasons in Scouting. Cold-weather hikes, campouts, and even outdoor meetings help Scouts build resilience, skills, and confidence when navigating winter safely. But snow and ice introduce risks that require leaders to be vigilant. Using the SAFE Checklist, following the Guide to Safe Scouting, and modeling the Scouter Code of Conduct ensures safe and successful winter activities.

Supervision: Modeling Safe Movement and Behavior

Supervision, the first SAFE component, is especially critical in winter. The Scouter Code of Conduct calls leaders to set a strong example of safe behavior, which includes slowing down on icy surfaces, identifying hazards, and communicating clearly with youth.

Adult leaders should plan ahead by reviewing the Program Hazard Analysis (PHA) for each activity and ensuring that supervision is appropriate for the conditions. Youth should be reminded to walk carefully – not run – on snow or ice, step cautiously, and keep hands free for balance. Leaders must also ensure that all transportation complies with the Guide to Safe Scouting transportation guidelines, especially when icy roads or reduced visibility increase driving risks.

Assessment: Identifying Winter Hazards Before Activities Begin

Assessment, another essential part of the SAFE framework, requires leaders to evaluate conditions before and during activities. The Guide to Safe Scouting provides direction on avoiding frozen bodies of water unless they have been officially approved by the local council.

Leaders should check for hazards such as:

• Black ice
• Compacted snow
• Slick steps and stairways
• Shaded areas that stay frozen

Camps and councils must keep entryways, program areas, and roads cleared, treated, and well-lit. Units should confirm these conditions before arrival and be ready to adjust or postpone activities if hazards remain.

Fitness & Skill: Preparing Scouts for Winter Conditions

The fitness component of SAFE includes physical readiness, skill preparation, and appropriate clothing. Leaders should ensure that everyone is properly dressed for winter. Use the C-O-L-D method to stay warm:

C – Clean: Keep insulation clean and fluffy

O – Overheating: Adjust layers, hydrate

L – Loose Layers: Layer loosely; bright colors and a   can help

D – Dry: Stay dry to prevent frostbite/hypothermia

Leaders should know how to recognize symptoms early and respond quickly. Reference Wilderness First Aid and Guide to Safe Scouting for cold injury prevention and treatment guidance.

Equipment & Environment: Maintaining Safe Winter Spaces

Equipment is the fourth pillar of the SAFE Checklist and includes tools and environmental controls that support safety. Units and camps should maintain access to salt, sand, ice melt, shovels, and adequate lighting throughout the winter season. Vehicles used for Scouting must be winter-ready with clear windows, lights, and proper tires.

NCAP requires camps to maintain a safe environment. In winter, this includes evaluating and correcting hazards such as icy walkways.

Continuous Weather Monitoring

Winter weather can change quickly. Leaders must monitor trusted weather sources. Freezing rain, sudden drops, and high winds quickly raise risk. In addition to following SAFE’s emphasis on ongoing Assessment, all direct-contact leaders are required to complete Hazardous Weather Training, which provides essential guidance on recognizing, preparing for, and responding to severe weather. Leaders should apply this training by adjusting, relocating, or postponing activities when conditions are expected to become hazardous.

A Winter of Safe Scouting

With thoughtful planning and consistent use of the SAFE Checklist, supported by the Guide to Safe Scouting, the Scouter Code of Conduct, Age-Appropriate Guidelines, and NCAP Standards, leaders can create winter experiences that are both fun and safe. A few simple precautions now can prevent slips, cold stress, and serious injuries, ensuring every winter activity supports Scouting’s mission of developing character and leadership.

Questions?

Email health.safety@scouting.org for guidance or support.