To: All BSA Drivers
Although Scouting has achieved an extraordinary record of safety in all areas of activity, the BSA National Health and Safety Committee in February 1995 recognized a need for increased attention to vehicle-safety issues and now urges all volunteer leaders, professional staff, and youth to study and adhere to BSA rules and procedures pertaining to vehicle safety.
The incident rate for vehicle-related accidents in connection with Scouting activities remains substantially below the national average, but an upward trend in the accident rate over the past three years demonstrates that increased attention to vehicle-safety issues is appropriate.
The BSA rules and procedures pertaining to vehicle safety are detailed in the Health and Safety Guide.
Based on recent statistics, areas of specific concern include:
- Complying with all state and local traffic laws, including posted speed limits.
- Driving defensively, including watching traffic, taking no chances, and using extra caution. Remember that aggressive drivers take unnecessary risks.
- Meeting the driver qualifications on the tour permit, and limiting driving time according to BSA specifications.
- Limiting the number of passengers to the number of seats with safety belts. Ensuring that passengers remain in their seats with belts secured, and that no one rides outside the passenger compartment or cab of any vehicle.
- Driving with headlights turned on, because the extra moments of visual contact provided by the headlights might be enough to prevent some accidents.
- Reviewing, understanding, and complying with all BSA rules and procedures that pertain to vehicle safety.
Let's all drive with extreme care, watch out for the other driver, and get everyone home safe and sound.
The National Health and Safety Committee
Original Source: BSA Health and Safety Guide #33415A - 1998 Printing
