Safety & Health
Last updated 9/24/2021
COVID-19 Update | Return to Scouting Activities
As a leadership organization, we want to do our best to assist with slowing any potential spread of Coronavirus and keep our Scouting family and community healthy. We are following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Georgia State Department of Health, and our health committee led by Dr. Jeremy Ackerman.
Put the outing in Scouting!
When planning an in-person gathering or activity, answer these questions in order:
- How will we do it safely? Follow the Chartered Organization Guidelines, utilize the Guide to Safe Scouting and the SAFE Open Checklist (Attached below)
Remember to do the following:- Proper distancing;
- The use of any required personal protective equipment (such as masks)
- Cleanliness protocols (such as. handwashing and surface cleaning) are followed.
- Communication
- Will people come? To answer this question, leaders must be in touch with their families. Even when permission is granted and safety protocols can be met, there is no guarantee that people will come. Scouting groups should discuss their plans with their families and understand their willingness to come out. If families are willing and able to abide by safety protocols and requirements, the meeting or activity should be held in person.
We encourage all Scouting leaders to stay connected to your families at this time, work with them to understand their interests and willingness to gather together and create plans that meet prescribed policies to continue delivering Scouting to our youth.
COVID-19 and concern for the possibility of a transmission will require significant changes to operations in program areas for Scout activities. Planning for these scenarios will allow units to assess risk and needs to operate safely and adjust offerings as the situation continues to evolve. This document serves as a starting point for developing plans by program specialists and unit leaders.
See Guidelines Here!
Can we take our unit camping?
- Yes!
Can our unit/family bring our own program equipment?
- Maybe; please call or email our program office and equipment will be discussed on a case by case basis.
Where can I find information about operating activities safely during COIVD?
Are there any specific guidelines that I need to follow while I am at an AAC property?
- Up to date site-specific information will be shared with you as your visit approaches. All of the AAC facilities reside in different counties. We have worked with local officials in each jurisdiction to honor the local leader's wishes for our operations in their communities. The CDC offers practical information regarding staying safe indoors during COVID.
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html
Will the Trading Post be open?
- This information will be provided in your communication with site-specific personnel. It is our hope to offer limited Trading Post hours at WSC and BASC on the weekends or by appointment.
If you can’t make it to camp or need to be decked out when you arrive? Get your camp swag delivered to your home by visiting our online Camp Trading Posts! You’ll find all of our most popular items for you, the avid camper in your family, or friend. Slushies not included!
Will the AAC have a health officer on duty during our visit?
- No. Unit lead activities must provide Scout rendered first aid for their participants and coordinate with Ranger for any need beyond Scout rendered first aid.
Do we need to wear a mask while on the property?
- When visiting the Volunteer Service Center masks are required. The AAC strongly encourages you to wear a mask while visiting any of our camps out of respect for those around you. When you are sharing your experience with any other visitors and will be closer than 6 feet away you must wear a mask.
Will restrooms be available?
- All shower house/restroom facilities that have been reserved will be open during your stay.
How often will restrooms be cleaned?
- Additional staff/volunteers will be on-site for the specific purpose of increasing our ability to clean and sanitize. All high touch areas will be wiped down with an appropriate sanitizing solution. Cleaning supplies will also be available so that you may also clean.
As local councils and units use digital and online resources, such as video conferencing, to continue Scouting meetings, projects and advancement during the COVID-19 outbreak, the National Council is providing guidance in this UPDATED BSA Safety Moment that can be shared with anyone who has questions about topics such as video conferencing safety for Scouts and leaders. Note: This guidance is not comprehensive, and if it differs from the legal requirements of your state or local jurisdiction, please consult with your local council attorney.
Updates to previously released information include further guidance on recording of video conferences for adult participants and removal of the examples of video conferencing platforms.
For full details, view the Digital Safety and Online Scouting Activities Safety Moment, which is available publicly on Scouting.org.
We will continue to monitor governmental guidelines and update you via e-mail and on our website, AtlantaBSA.org/safety-health. Please familiarize yourself with the CDC guidelines on how to limit the spread of the virus, here at the CDC's Preventing COVID-19 Spread in Communities.
The Atlanta Area Council has partnered with SendSafely to bring a new opportunity to our adult volunteers to submit sensitive information via encrypted server.
To use Send Safely click here!
A lockbox is available at the Volunteer Service Center for you to drop off paperwork.
To submit applications:
Go to beascout.org and submit online or use Send Safely.
Scout Shop
10:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. (M-F)
9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. (Sat.)
Closed (Sun.)
Program Center
8:30 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. (M-F)
9:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. (Sat.)
Closed (Sun.)
While visiting, please keep a six-foot distance from others, wear a mask, use the provided hand sanitizer and if you are feeling sick wait and visit another day.
A Scout is Clean and Prepared
Please familiarize yourself with the CDC guidelines on how to limit the spread of the virus, here at the CDC's Preventing COVID-19 Spread in Communities.
The safety of our Scouts and Leaders is our number one priority. If you have questions about District or Council events happening in your area please contact your District Professional.