Youth Scouts and Camp Sequoyah

Transcription

1 2007 Greater Alabama Council Summer Camp General Information Guide For Camp Comer Camp Sequoyah 1

2 Table of Contents Greater Alabama Council General Information... 5 The buddy system will apply to all campers... 5 General Information... 5 Camp Comer General Information... 5 Camp Sequoyah General Information... 5 Camp Dates and Times... 6 Emergency Calls... 6 Mail... 6 Other Pertinent Information... 6 Troops from Other Councils... 6 Camperships... 6 Forms... 6 Refunds... 7 Uniform at Camp... 8 Religious Observance... 8 Weather... 8 Supplies... 8 Controlled Substances... 8 Property or Equipment Damage... 8 Advanced Planning... 9 What Do I Do Now?... 9 Beaver Days Order of the Arrow Callout Ceremonies Who Is In Charge? Adult Leadership in Camp Scout Leadership in Camp Youth Protection Training Required for Adults Summer Camp Registration Camp Registration Deadlines Check-in: Sunday Checkout: Saturday Medical Information Forms and Medical Care Medical Information Form Medications Special Diets Emergencies and Medical Care Accident and Sickness Insurance Unit Leader First Aid Emergency Procedures: Severe Weather Fire Lost Person Camp Wide Emergency Formation What to Bring to Camp: Pre-Camp Swim Checks

3 Important Merit Badge and Advancement Information Greater Alabama Council, BSA - Top Gun Camp Commissioner Program Greater Alabama Council Campsite Award Greater Alabama Council Camp Spirit Award SUMMER CAMP STAFF OPPORTUNITIES Counselor in Training Program Motor Vehicle Information Other Safety Guidelines Camp Visitor Policy Leader Information Camp Security Policy Miscellaneous Camp Forms Unit Pre Camp Swim Test Camp Staff Application Counselor in Training Application Campership Application Commissioner s Awards Commissioner's Camp Spirit Award White Water Rafting - Waiver and Release of Liability Class 1 and Class 2 Medical Record Class 3 Medical Camp Registration Form (In Council) Camp Registration Form (Out of Council)

4 GREATER ALABAMA COUNCIL GENERAL INFORMATION Greater Alabama Council Service Center PO Box Birmingham AL Telephone: (205) The buddy system will apply to all Campers, Staff and Leaders while on Greater Alabama Council property. Fee structure. The Greater Alabama Council no longer charges additional fees for most merit badges. The only additional fees will be for Shotgun - $15, White Water Rafting-$55 and Mountain Man Challenge - $25 at Camp Comer and Mountaineer- $25 and Shotgun - $15 at Camp Sequoyah. The base fee will be the same at $195 in council and $225 out-of-council for either camp in Troops will be allowed two free leaders ONLY if all fees are paid by May 15, After that date, ALL leaders will be charged $64 each for the week. Units will be allowed a maximum of two free leaders regardless of the number of Scouts. Our On-Line merit badge registration is now available and will be activated in January. Go to and click on the summer camp page to access summer camp information. Once you have registered your troop and have been given an authorization code, you will be able to make payments and changes to your troops registration on line. GENERAL INFORMATION Camp Comer General Information The main attractions for Camp Comer are the cool summer temperature, beautiful Lake Republic, rocks, and a mountaintop atmosphere. Camp Comer has outstanding programming and facilities and provides Scouts with several merit badge opportunity periods every day. Camp Sequoyah General Information Camp Sequoyah has been in operation since it was dedicated on June 29, 1972 and is a part of the Frank Spain Scout Reservation, which encompasses 1,447 acres of prime wilderness. The camp s centerpiece is the 80-acre Lake Cross. Camp Sequoyah has the best programming and facilities that Scouting has to offer and has plenty of opportunities for advancement with four merit badge opportunity periods each day. Most of the afternoon is left free for troops to schedule their own programs or take advantage of the great activities planned by the camp. 5

5 Camp Dates and Times Arrival time for troops is 100 p.m. through 4:00 p.m. each Sunday Camps Comer and Sequoyah Week 1..June 3 June 9 Week 2..June 10 June 16 Week 3..June 17 June 23 Week 4..June 24 July 30 Week 5..July 1 - July 7 Week 6..July 8 July 14 (Camp Comer Only) Emergency Calls Camp Comer Camp Sequoyah (256) (256) Mail Camp Comer Camp Sequoyah Scout s Name Scout s Name Troop Number Troop Number Week of Attendance Week of Attendance County Rd County Rd 11 Mentone, AL Delta, AL OTHER PERTINENT INFORMATION Troops from Other Councils Troops from other councils are welcomed at all Greater Alabama Council Camps. Fees for out of council troops are listed in the registration section; troops may reserve a campsite in the same way as incouncil troops. Camperships A limited number of Camperships are available each year for youth members registered in the Greater Alabama Council. Camperships may be requested for those youth who desire to attend camp but cannot afford to go. These are for specific youth and not for the troop as a whole to reduce the cost of camp. Troops should plan to aid scouts as much as possible prior to asking for assistance and should be selling popcorn to teach scouts how to provide for themselves. The deadline for Campership requests is May 1 and should not exceed $95.00 per Scout. Those received after May 1, 2007 will not be processed. Forms Required forms are individual health forms, troop roster, and unit swim classification record. Please see the Miscellaneous Camp Forms section at the end of this guide. Out of Council troops must provide evidence of accident insurance and a tour permit. Examples of all forms are in this guide. 6

6 Additionally, each unit should complete a Program Registration Form on your troop registration form on the Internet by May 15 to facilitate merit badge and class registration. This form indicates which classes your boys will be participating in. Failure to arrive with a completed, signed Health form will delay your check-in. No one, Adult, Youth or Staff, may participate in any activity without a completed health form. Refunds GREATER ALABAMA COUNCIL REFUND POLICY In all programs offered in the Greater Alabama Council, BSA, a great deal of planning, preparation and purchasing takes place well in advance of the event. These plans include, but are not limited to: staff, food, program materials, patches, awards, rental and purchase of equipment, and in some cases items of clothing such as T-shirts that are given as part of a program fee. When an individual makes a reservation for an activity or program, they are included in the ordering of materials and staffing for that event. Scouts or adults unable to attend an event due to illness, accidents or last minute schedule changes may request a refund of the fees paid for the event. All refund requests are to follow the following procedures: 1. All refund requests must be submitted in writing to the Greater Alabama Council, P.O. Box 43307, Birmingham, AL Include in your refund request: The name of the event; date of the event; name of the participant the refund is for; the amount the participant paid to date for the event; receipt number if available; the unit number, and the name and address of the unit leader. 3. A 20% per participant non-attending fee will be deducted from the refund request for most Greater Alabama events. 4. In the case of Boy Scout Summer camp, the $ per site, per week deposit is NOT REFUNDABLE in the event of cancellation. $75.00 per week of each Scout's fee is NOT REFUNDABLE, but may be transferred from one boy to another within a troop. All deposits will be credited toward the balance of fees due. 5. All refunds will be sent to the unit leader for appropriate distribution. 6. Any refund requests received more than 30 days after the last day of the event for which they are being requested are ineligible for a refund. Water Scoutmasters are encouraged to stress the importance of drinking plenty of water during the day. This helps to avoid heat exhaustion. There will be water available in each of the program areas. Units are encouraged to bring a cooler and may get ice from the Dining Hall. The camp provides no coolers. 7

7 Uniform at Camp Sunday arrival: Field uniform ( Class A ) During The Day: Class B Evening Meal: Field uniform Closing Flag Ceremony: Field uniform At the Lake: Swim suits Religious Observance An interfaith service will be held each week. Camp Chaplain Aides will be available during the week and will lead the prayer at each meal gathering. Weather During the summer the weather in Alabama is usually hot and sunny. We may get a number of short, severe thunderstorms. These thunderstorms frequently produce dangerous lightning. Please remind Scouts of the danger of lightning and discuss precautions to take during a storm. All aquatic programs are canceled during lightning storms. Arrangements are made to make up work missed due to canceled classes. Supplies Supplies including rakes, shovels, brooms, plungers and hoses will be available. If you need anything, visit the Quartermaster. Hours and additional information about the Quartermaster will be provided at the SM/SPL meeting Sunday night. Controlled Substances Drug and alcohol laws will be strictly enforced according to Boy Scouts of America standards and the laws of the State of Alabama. Boy Scouts of America policy is to provide a tobacco-free environment for all Scouting participants. Therefore, tobacco is not allowed in the presence of youth or in buildings. You may use tobacco only in the designated smoking area, by the dumpsters near the dining hall. Property or Equipment Damage: A Scout is Thrifty all campsite and camp owned equipment will be inspected before checking in and out of camp. Any damages that occur will be assessed by the Camp Ranger and must be paid prior to the Troop leaving camp. Damages may include lost or damaged equipment, defacing tents or facilities, or damage to the natural environment. Please note and report any damage you detect on your check-in sheet. TENTS: Rips and tears per inch. $ 2.00 Writing on canvas, each panel $ Destroying Waterproofing. Use of aerosol spray cans in or on a tent can destroy the waterproofing. (Cost to be determined on an individual basis by the Camp Ranger). Tent Replacement (Tent beyond economical repair).. $ TENT PLATFORMS AND PICNIC TABLES: New board replacement-cost determined per case.. (Minimum $7.50) Ridge Poles. $ Uprights.. $

8 TIE-DOWN RAILS and UPRIGHTS - (Cost to be determined on an individual basis by the Camp Ranger). PERMANENT STRUCTURES - Cost of Damage to be determined on an individual basis by the Camp Ranger Fire Extinguishers $ ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE Damage to live trees.. $ Improper disposal of trash and litter. $ PREPARING FOR CAMP Advanced Planning Going to Scout Camp is probably the greatest experience that a unit will have during the year. You ll get tremendous satisfaction out of seeing each Scout have fun in the great outdoors. Each Unit Leader becomes more responsible. Each Patrol functions better as a team. Your unit will be a better unit as a result of Scout camp, and the opportunity to get to know and understand your Scouts can never be better. What Do I Do Now? Well, here you are all pumped up about going to camp but a little unsure of your next step. That's O.K. because we're not going to let you down now. 1. Contact your District Camp Promotion Chairman and establish a Camp Promotion Night for Scouts and parents. If you don't know his name someone at the office can help you. You want to tell him the date of your parent's night so he can get your materials lined up. You need to schedule a parent s night to inform Scouts, parents and leaders of the activities available at each Summer Camp. Pick a date far enough out from your projected Camp dates to allow everyone a chance to get familiar with the idea. December or January is a good time. There is a contact list in the appendix. 2. Contact your Order of the Arrow chapter advisor so you can have a few seasoned campers at your parent's night to answer questions. This is an important step because the summer camp experience is the first time many younger scouts will be camping for such an extended period. Once again, if you don't know someone, contact your District Camping Chairman or Commissioner, they will know somebody. The OA can also do your OA election during your camp promotion meeting. There is a contact list in the appendix. 3. Hold your unit Camp Promotion Night. 4. Have Scouts select which camp they wish to attend 5. Send Campsite Reservation Form to any Greater Alabama Council service center, along with a $ deposit per troop. You should request a campsite; however, the Camp Director may reassign sites if necessary to accommodate troop size. 6. Determine What do we want to accomplish at Summer Camp? How can we insure a balanced program that will enrich the life of each Scout? Set some goals for your unit. 9

9 7. Determine which Scouts are planning to attend camp and determine your patrol structure. Follow-up with Scouts who don t plan to attend and encourage them to reconsider. 8. Once you have these few steps in order, you're ready. Relax; you've got everything under control. Even first year Scouts know you have to Be Prepared...and you are! 9. Collect and send $75.00 per scout to the Liberty Park service center by March 1, Have a Patrol Leader s Council Meeting to integrate the unit goals with the youth goals and plan your camp advancement schedule. 11. Complete the Merit Badge and Instruction Selection Form on the Internet no later than May 15, Collect and send your final payment by May 15, Secure the needed medical forms from all Scouts and Leaders. 14. Conduct a swim test and complete the units swim classification record. 15. Attend Beaver Day at the camp you plan to attend. Beaver Day/Orientation: Camp Comer-May 5; Camp Sequoyah-April 21 Beaver Day / orientation meetings will be held at each Camp. These meetings will begin at 8:00 AM. We will work until noon; have lunch followed by an information time and a tour of camp (lunch & drinks will be provided). We will finish up by 4:00 PM. Beaver Days are days set aside for volunteers and camp staff to meet one another, to work on camp preparation and for volunteers to receive an orientation of camp and the 2007 camp program. Units scheduled to attend camp should come to camp and invest some sweat equity in their camp. Bring your friends, co-workers, family, Scouts, Leaders, whomever and help us get camp ready for the summer. These are your camps and you will be proud of the changes YOU make. There are projects in painting, wiring, plumbing, shoveling, carpentry, cleaning, etc. etc. Bring your own tools. If you can t come for the whole day, come for part of it. Order of the Arrow Callout Ceremonies Camp Sequoyah and Camp Comer conduct OA callout ceremonies during summer camp. Your troop should schedule and hold a unit OA election several weeks prior to camp. Your local OA chapter can assist you with this. Have the election results sent to the council office and bring a copy with you to camp. WHO IS IN CHARGE? Adult Leadership in Camp Under the Boy Scout organizational structure, the Scoutmaster is in charge of the troop at all times. The Scoutmaster and other adult leaders have the primary responsibility for the care of all the unit Scouts while in camp. The discipline and organization of the troop is the Scoutmaster s responsibility. 10

10 However, it should be noted that the Scoutmaster should utilize the Senior Patrol Leader s leadership skills whenever possible. Scout Leadership in Camp While the ultimate responsibility for the troop rests with the Scoutmaster, each Troop is under the leadership of the Senior Patrol Leader. The Senior Patrol Leader, with the assistance of Troop s Patrol Leaders and adult leaders, prime responsibility is to insure that all members of the Troop are where they are supposed to be at various times during the day (i.e. breakfast, lunch and dinner formations), and to take charge of the unit at any formations that the Troop is responsible for conducting. The Senior Patrol Leader will assign patrols to insure that the Troop s campsite is neat and in order at all times, including the campfire is extinguished if no one is in attendance. The Senior Patrol Leader is the first level of Troop discipline while in camp. The Senior Patrol Leader will also attend the daily leaders meeting in the Dining Hall as scheduled by the Camp Staff. YOUTH PROTECTION TRAINING REQUIRED FOR ADULTS All registered Scouters listed on the Unit Adult Registration form who will be remaining at Camp Comer or Sequoyah for more than 24 hours must have a current Youth protection Training Certificate. Certification is valid for three years and must be current through the Scouters entire time at camp. This requirement is to be verified by the Scoutmaster before camp. We will offer YPT at camp for any adults who don t have it or need an update. SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION Registration for Camp Comer and Camp Sequoyah should be made by mailing or faxing your reservation form to the Council Office. Once your troop is registered and assigned a campsite you will be given an access code for the Internet registration site. You will then be allowed to make changes, payments and select classes directly. Camp Registration Deadlines Now: Select a Camp, Week and Campsite for your troop and return the camp registration form and $ per unit registration fee to the Council office. March 1: Remit a total of $75.00 per Scout to the Council office. Update your estimate of the total number of Scouts and leaders that will be attending camp. April 21 Plan to attend Beaver Day/Orientation at Camp Sequoyah May 1: All requests for Camperships must be submitted to the Council Office. 11

11 May 5 Plan to attend Beaver Day/Orientation at Camp Comer May 15 Final payments of all summer camp fees are due into the Council Office for units to get two free leaders. All merit badge and class requests are completed on-line. CHECK-IN: SUNDAY Starting at 1:00 P.M. 1. One unit leader should be prepared to begin the registration procedure with the Commissioner staff. Each unit will be asked to review their alphabetical unit roster (Scouts and adults), adult and youth medical forms, tour permit (if out-of-council), unit swim classification records and program schedule. 2. Begin orientation tour. Scouts may be required to complete the swim check and be classified according to their swimming proficiency. It is important that all troop members go to the waterfront so they can receive the waterfront orientation. The waterfront will issue buddy tags. 3. You may leave your troop equipment in the parking area under the supervision of a responsible adult or have adults take it to your campsite. 4. There will be a meeting at the Dining Hall to discuss the meal and clean-up operation. AT LEAST ONE ADULT FROM EACH UNIT MUST ATTEND. You will be given the specifics for your camp when you arrive. 5. Units should consult the camp section of this guide for specific times for Sunday dinner and Sunday evening programs. 6. First year campers introductory meeting will be held Sunday evening. An Assistant Scoutmaster should be available to attend with his Scouts. CHECKOUT: SATURDAY 1. Breakfast 2. A Commissioner will complete a campsite checkout and equipment check-in. 3. Checkout at Quartermaster's. Equipment lost or damaged must be paid for by the troop that checked it out. 4. Each troop should review all advancement reports prior to departure. Discrepancies can be corrected by the Program Director. 5. Checkout with Camp Business Manager. PICK UP HEALTH FORMS 6. Pick up lost & found, etc., from Camp Director's office. 12

12 MEDICAL INFORMATION FORMS AND MEDICAL CARE Medical Information Form All participants (youth and adults) attending Camp Comer or Camp Sequoyah must complete a medical form supplied by the Greater Alabama Council, BSA. This medical form is available at the Council Service Center or on the web site The medical form can be reproduced, but not altered in any way. Each medical form requires a physician s examination and signature and parents or legal guardian signature indicating that the camper or leader is fit to attend camp. According to BSA policy, all youth not participating in high adventure and adults under 40 require a completed Class 2 medical form. The health history section, the front portion, should be updated annually for any changes in the participant s medical condition, and to include current physician and parent emergency contact information. Adult leaders 40 years of age or older and youth participating in older boy programs are required to get a medical exam and complete a new Class 3 Medical Form every year. Medications Under Alabama law, either a parent or camp medical staff must dispense medications for youth. All youth medications must be turned into the camp medical staff and then dispensed to the campers by the medical staff. All medications checked in must be in the original containers, marked with the Scout s name and troop number and original medication information. Do not cover up the information and instructions on the medication. Dosages and schedules to be followed in camp must be the same as on the package; changes must be stated in writing. Medication in pillboxes and non-original containers will not be accepted. Please send only enough medication for the doses that will be administered during the week at camp. The camp medical staff will work with the Scoutmaster to ensure that Scouts are taking their medication. It is the primary responsibility of the Scout and his Scoutmaster to know when they should be taking their medication. Special Diets Both Camp Comer and Camp Sequoyah are willing to accommodate special diets for campers, whether for religious, medical or philosophical reasons. If a Scout has dietary restrictions make sure that it is indicated on his medical form. In addition, please contact the camp in writing or by a minimum of 3 weeks in advance to request special dietary needs. Emergencies and Medical Care Every precaution is taken to insure a healthy and safe camping experience for all Scouts and Scouters attending Camp Comer or Sequoyah. However, accidents and medical problems do occur. Both Camp Comer and Camp Sequoyah operate well-equipped medical facilities that are administered by the Camp Comer or Camp Sequoyah Medical director. The medical staff is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Unit leaders should contact the medical staff or any leadership team member for assistance, even in emergencies. DO NOT CALL 911. We have special arrangements for contacting and working with the Mentone Fire Department for Camp Comer and Hollis Cross Roads Fire Department for Camp Sequoyah. Help will arrive much quicker if camp medical personnel make the call. If a non-emergency problem arises, such as an illness that is beyond the scope of our medical technicians, we will contact the parents and unit leader. The parents and unit leaders must then arrange for care, and transport the Scout to a medical facility. Neither Camp Comer nor Camp Sequoyah is able 13

13 to provide transportation for such situations. The parents or unit leaders must pay the costs of such care; the parents should file insurance claims. In the event of an injury or illness requiring immediate medical attention, the care of your Scout will be turned over to the local emergency medical personnel, who may require the use of ground or air ambulance service at their discretion. All expenses associated with this additional treatment and/or emergency transportation is the responsibility of the Scout s parents or guardians. The providers will directly bill the patient or other responsible party; we will not make any payments. Accident and Sickness Insurance The Greater Alabama Council has purchased accident and sickness insurance for every Scout and Scouter. This coverage is excess insurance to any health or accident insurance that a family may already have in place. This coverage is primary only if no other insurance is available. This insurance covers all authorized camp program activities while in camp. This insurance does not cover the co-payments for a family s primary insurance. All claims are handled directly with the insurance company. Units not chartered in the Greater Alabama Council must provide proof of insurance upon arrival at camp. Unit Leader First Aid We encourage unit leaders to provide first aid for minor cuts, small blisters, etc. using your unit first aid kit. For any thing more serious, and any situations requiring medication, please use the health lodge while in camp, you must operate under Alabama Child Care regulations, and are prohibited from dispensing medications. Remember that the Scoutmaster or other adult leaders are the main source of warnings about problems. Watch for symptoms, including the most common ailments of dehydration, nosebleed, hypothermia, and diarrhea. The Greater Alabama Council strongly recommends that every unit have at least one adult leader in camp that has training equivalent to the First Aid Merit Badge. Both the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association offer several excellent Community First Aid courses. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES: The Camp Director or his designee may sound an emergency signal at any time due to a lost scout, fire in camp, or severe weather. You will receive instructions about emergency procedures on Sunday afternoon at the Scoutmaster / SPL meeting. If you hear an alert you are to report to the designated area as quickly as possible. Your Campsite Commissioner will meet you there and give you any information that you may need. WEATHER HAZARDS Lightning Open water, mountain summits, the crests of ridges, slopes above timberline, the bases of tall or lone trees, and large meadows are extremely hazardous places to be during lightning storms. If you are caught in an exposed place, quickly move to shore or descend to a lower elevation, away from the direction of the approaching storm. A dense forest located in a depression provides the best protection. If you re on a lake, paddle to the nearest shore. Avoid taking shelter under isolated trees. Stay clear of unusually tall trees. Stay away from overhangs and caves because they are prone to being struck. Stay away from water, metal fences, and other objects that will conduct electricity long distances. Squat or kneel down on a pad, keeping your head low. By squatting or kneeling on a pad with your feet close together, you have minimal contact with the ground, thus reducing danger from ground currents. If 14

14 the threat of lightning strikes is great, the members of your crew should not huddle together, but spread out at least fifteen feet apart. If one member of your crew is jolted, the rest of you can give assistance. Whenever lightning is nearby, take off backpacks that have either external or internal metal frames. In tents, stay at least a few inches from metal tent poles. Flash Floods / Thunder storms Threadlike streams can become raging rivers in a few minutes or even seconds. It is important to be alert to the possibility of flash floods and take steps to avoid a dangerous encounter. Each year we evacuate campers from the island or the mountain for severe weather threats. We take tornadoes and high winds seriously and you should too. If we come for you, be ready to move to the dining hall for the duration of the severe weather threat. Rainy Weather Wet conditions can make trails and campsites slippery, so you ll want to be especially cautious as you move from place to place. Staying dry is important to prevent hypothermia; getting wet will strip away body heat. With good rain gear to wear, a tight tent for shelter, and some plastic trash can liners to protect your gear, you can stay comfortable. Don your rain gear and secure your camp before storm hits, checking tent stakes, stowing equipment, and lowering the windward sides of dining flies. Dry Weather Extremely dry weather presents another danger: dehydration. You can avoid the first by drinking plenty of water (six to ten quarts a day is not excessive), eating, and by reducing your level of exertion to slow moisture loss through perspiration. Drink water. Coffee, tea, and soft drinks are diuretics that cause fluids to pass quickly through the body, resulting in a loss of hydration rather than providing any benefit. Protect your lips with a coating of lip balm and moisturize your skin with lotion. If the weather is hot, be alert for the symptoms of heatstroke and heat exhaustion. AVOIDING ACCIDENTS Most accidents occur late in the day in camp, not on the trail. Many of them involve horseplay. Fatigue, mild dehydration, and altitude may impair a crewmember s performance and judgment. Rock throwing, improper use of equipment, foolishness in hanging the bear bags, climbing steep or rocky ridges, running through campsites, climbing trees, and carelessness around fire lays frequently cause accidents. To avoid accidents, maintain individual and crew discipline and practice safety in all activities. SAFETY AROUND PLANTS Vegetation greatly enriches outdoor experiences. Hazardous plants will seldom cause concern for most backcountry travelers, though you will want to be able to recognize irritants such as poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and nettles. Do not eat any wild plants, including mushrooms unless you are positive that you know what they are and that they are safe for human consumption. Enjoy wild plants by taking photos of them and leaving them for others to enjoy. SAFETY AROUND ANIMALS Animals often will be an exciting part of your adventures. Seeing them in their natural habitat is always a pleasure, but it s wise to remember that they are the permanent residents of the backcountry while you are a visitor. Treat them with respect, give them enough space so they ll not feel threatened by your presence, and they ll seldom present a threat to your safety. When an animal feels frightened, threatened, or trapped, it may fight for its life by attacking, scratching, and biting. In the event a warmblooded animal injures you, seek treatment quickly, for a doctor must determine whether rabies treatments will be necessary. 15

15 SAFETY AROUND SNAKES Snakes, including the poisonous species, are beneficial members of the animal community. Snakes normally shun humans, but you should always stay alert for them. A snake may bite if it is startled or cornered, so take precautions to prevent that. As you hike and camp, watch where you put your feet and hands. Avoid thick brush. When you re climbing, don t reach blindly over a ledge. Wear sturdy boots and long trousers for extra protection. Do not attempt to catch or handle snakes, even nonpoisonous ones. PREVENTING INSECT BITES Ticks spread many diseases in North America, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever, relapsing fever, and others. Bites from mosquitoes, flies, and chiggers cause discomfort and can lead to localized skin infections. While everyone in a high-adventure program is at risk from insect and tick bites, protection is available to prevent discomfort and infections. Protective Measures Applying 0.5 percent permethrin to clothing provides effective protection against tick and chigger bites. Spray outdoor clothing until it is damp and allow it to dry overnight. Treated clothing will provide adequate protection for two weeks, even if soaked daily by rain, sweat, or swimming. Permethrin will not harm synthetic or natural fibers. It will not absorb through the skin when it is applied to clothing as indicated. Using Deet insect repellents can prevent bites from mosquitoes and other insects. Limit concentrations used on the skin to 35 percent or less to minimize skin absorption. Deet in 100 percent concentrations should not be used on the skin, but may be used to treat clothing. Place a garment, such as a head net, in a plastic bag with an ounce of 100 percent DEET and let it soak overnight to provide about two days of effective treatment. Watch out for bees and wasps. If you or any member of your crew is allergic to stings, be sure that you have injectable epinephrine and that at least one other member of the crew is informed of the allergy and prepared to give treatment if necessary. Using a repellent with a maximum of 35 percent DEET may help trekkers avoid stings and thus the need to treat allergic reactions. There is a chance that your unit may experience severe weather while in camp. If one of these events should occur, follow these guidelines: Seek shelter in buildings or tents. Stay out of open areas and stay out of the water. The Program Area Directors can inform you of more specific safety precautions needed for each area. Program areas may be closed at the discretion of the camp leadership team. Fire If you see or suspect a fire, notify the camp leadership team immediately. Send for, or get help before you try to put out the fire, and do not put yourself in a dangerous situation! Lost Person If a member of your troop is missing, first check their tent and surrounding campsite, and any buildings or latrines near the campsite. Then check their last known program area or location, and the trading post. If the person cannot be found promptly, immediately notify the camp Leadership Team while continuing to search. 16

16 Camp Wide Emergency Formation Following any camp wide emergency the entire camp will assemble by troop at the area designated by the Camp Director during the Sunday evening Scoutmaster / Senior Patrol Leader Meeting and we will ask the unit Senior Patrol Leader and adult unit leaders to account for all those on your roster. The process will go quicker if you have a copy of unit roster with you. Adults should carry a unit roster with them at all times while in camp. If it becomes necessary to evacuate camp, we will rely on your unit s drivers for transportation. Unit leaders may not be able to return to their campsite; therefore, drivers should carry their car keys at all times while at camp. WHAT TO BRING TO CAMP: Medical Form (age Class II, Age 40+ Class III) Plenty of Socks, Shorts, Underwear, T-shirts Cap/Hat Long Sleeve Shirt and Long Pants Pillow Towels Soap/Shampoo Flashlight Insect Repellent Sunscreen Notebook/ pens/ pencils Work Gloves Scout Uniform Shoes/ Boots Pajamas Sleeping Bag or Bed Roll Raingear/Jacket for cool nights Washcloth Toothpaste/Toothbrush Pocket Knife/Totin Chip Swim Trunks Boy Scout Handbook Bible/ prayer book NOTE: The above list is not meant to be all-inclusive, but a minimum suggested list PRE-CAMP SWIM CHECKS All Scouts and leaders who wish to use the lake and boats at camp are required to have a current swim check. There are no exceptions. Swim check records are also required for all unit aquatic activities. Swim checks are valid for one year, and must be repeated, preferably at the beginning of each summer season. We will conduct a swim check when you arrive, but you can save a lot of time if you do a unit swim check before coming to camp. When doing the swim check, be sure to have a qualified lifeguard on hand. The lifeguard s responsibility to assist in classifying the swimmers and to make sure that the test is completed in a safe and proper manner. Non-certified adults may assist in the process as needed. Be honest in your evaluations! If a swimmer is overrated he may have trouble completing classes for which he is enrolled or, worse yet, may get into a life-threatening situation in the lake or pool. You are more of a help to a Scout if you give him a goal and a reason to improve. 17

17 Please make two copies of your swim check one for the lake and one for your Troop records. We cannot return the lists at the end of the week. The copies will be collected at the lake during the checkin process. Administration of Swim Classification Test A Pre-Camp Swim Test Classification Record is included in the Miscellaneous Forms Section at the end of this guide. This is a record of your Troops pre-summer camp Swim Test as of the date of the test. Any change in this status after this date i.e., Non-Swimmer to beginner or beginner to swimmer, will require a reclassification swim test by the Summer Camp Aquatics Director. NOTE: Although swim tests maybe conducted prior to summer camp, the Aquatics Director is expected to review or retest any Scout or Scout Leader whose skills appear to be inconsistent with his classification. Additionally, the Aquatics Program Director is authorized to retest and Scout or group of Scouts when he is reasonable concerned that the pre-camp swim tests were not properly administered. Classification of Swimming Ability Swimmer Test The swimmer test demonstrates the minimum level of swimming ability required for safe deepwater swimming. The various components of the test evaluate the several different skills essential to this minimum level of swimming ability. Unfortunately, the numerous statements of the test found in the Scouting literature are sometimes inconsistent and many omit important details. A precise statement of test is as follows: Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off, and begin swimming. Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes: sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl; then swim 25 yards using an easy, resting backstroke. The 100 yards must include at least one sharp turn. After completing the swim, rest by floating. The test administrator must objectively evaluate the individual performance of the test, and in so doing, should keep in mind the purpose of each test element. Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off, and begin swimming The swimmer must be able to make an abrupt entry into deep water and begin swimming without any aids. Walking in from shallow water, easing in from the edge or down a ladder, pushing off from side or bottom, and gaining forward momentum by diving do not satisfy this requirement. Swim 75 yards in a strong manner Using one or more of the following strokes: sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl; The swimmer must be able to cover the distance with a strong, confident stroke. The 75 yards must not be the outer limit of the swimmer s ability; completion of the distance should give evidence of sufficient stamina to avoid undue risks. Dog paddling and strokes repeatedly interrupted and restarted are not sufficient, underwater swimming is not permitted. The itemized strokes are inclusive. Any strong side or breaststroke, or any strong over arm stroke (including the back crawl) are acceptable. Swim 25 yards using an easy, resting backstroke The swimmer must indicate his ability to execute a restful, free-breathing backstroke, which can be used to avoid exhaustion during swimming activity. This element of the test necessarily follows the more strenuous swimming activity to show that the swimmer is in fact able to use the backstroke as a relief 18

18 from exertion. The change of stroke must be accomplished in deep water without any push off or other aid. Any variation of the elementary backstroke is acceptable. An over arm back crawl may suffice, if it clearly provides an opportunity for the swimmer to rest and regain his wind. The 100 yards must be completed in one swim without stops and must include at least one sharp turn The total distance is to be covered without rest stops. The sharp turn demonstrates the simmer s ability to reverse direction in deep water without assistance or push-off from side or bottom. After completing the swim, rest by floating. This critically important component of the test evaluates the swimmer s ability to maintain himself in the water indefinitely even though exhausted or otherwise unable to continue swimming. Treading water or swimming in place will further tire the swimmer and are therefore unacceptable. The duration of the float test is not significant, except that it must be long enough for the test administrator to determine that the swimmer is in fact resting and could likely continue to do so for a prolonged period of time. Drown proofing may be sufficient if clearly restful, but is not preferred. If the test is completed except for the floating requirement, the swimmer may be retested on the floating only (after instructions) provided that the test administrator is confident that the swimmer can initiate the float when exhausted. Beginner Test A precise statement of the beginner test is as follows: Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off and swim 25 feet on the surface, stop, turn sharply, resume swimming as before and return to starting place. The entry and turn serve the same purpose as in the swimmer test. The swimming can be done with any stroke, but no underwater swimming is permitted. The stop assures that the swimmer can regain his stroke if it is interrupted. As the test proceeds, the instructor moves along the side, staying even with the Scout, giving encouragement and directions (not instructions) as needed. When the test is satisfactorily completed, the instructor congratulates the Scout as he assists him from the water and indicates what classification has been earned. If a boy is unsuccessful in his test, he is assisted from the water and given encouragement, which will bring him back to practice and try again at his first opportunity. The procedure is repeated for each boy taking the beginner test. The Scoutmaster must record the classification of each boy and adult on the unit swim classification record. IMPORTANT MERIT BADGE AND ADVANCEMENT INFORMATION Study merit badge requirements and prerequisites in this section carefully to determine which requirements your boys may not be able to complete at camp and try to have them completed before you come to camp. The prerequisites are included in the leaders guide. Be sure that you receive written proof of all advancement completed for each Scout before leaving camp. This especially applies to those who have completed part of the requirements for a merit badge. 19

19 Check the schedule for availability of established merit badge instructional programs in each camp section. Not all badges are taught at both camps! Additional merit badges may be scheduled in afternoons. Check with Camp Program Director for any request. Once you have reviewed the advancement opportunities at the camp you intend to attend, help your boys choose the merit badges or classes they wish to work on. Then, list their choices in order of preference on the class schedule found in the appendix. For instance, a Scout may want to work on swimming merit badge, forestry merit badge, cooking merit badge and citizenship in the world merit badge. List them in that order on the class schedule and we will make every effort to get him into those classes. First year campers or those taking BSA Lifeguard should only list those programs since they will take up all of the instruction day. They should list several choices, however. Once your class schedules are finalized, they should be recorded on-line no later than May 15, GREATER ALABAMA COUNCIL, BSA - TOP GUN Background: The Council Camping Committee, Greater Alabama Council, recognized the need for a program to emphasize gun safety and provide for proper training in the handling and use of firearms. The Field Sports Area at Camp Sequoyah and Camp Comer provide excellent facilities to develop these goals. It was decided, in early 1991, to expand the Scout's field sports experience with an introduction to shooting sports. The Camping Committee approved a rifle match competition to provide the next step for scouts who showed an aptitude for target shooting. The Program: 1) Each scout having one of the ten best scores on the rifle range for each week of summer camp will be invited to participate in a match competition. 2) The competition will be held at the end of the summer so that each of the six weeks of Camp would have ten possible candidates. 3) This competition match is to raise the level of learning by using all four firing positions. The firing positions are only explained in the rifle merit badge book. This new level would introduce the scout to the next step in match competition. 4) In keeping with the competition tradition we will award a first, second, and third place. However, all scouts that participate in the match would receive some form of recognition. This program has been successful in sparking an interest in shooting sports and providing a means to emphasize the safe and proper use of firearms. Be sure to ask if any of your Scouts qualified for Top Gun. CAMP COMMISSIONER PROGRAM The Camp Commissioner concept involves senior Scout Leaders who will help provide a super summer camp program to the Scouts and their leaders. The Commissioner staff will administer the Campsite award and Camp Spirit award. In addition, Commissioners will be a valuable resource for new leaders and an example to Scouts. Bring your own camper or stay in a tent. We can use your experience to enhance our camp! We need four Commissioners for each week of camp. 20

20 GREATER ALABAMA COUNCIL CAMPSITE AWARD To qualify for the Campsite Award units will need to: Display a filled out duty roster Keep tent floors clean and swept Stow personal gear neatly. No hangers over ridge pole Keep activity shelter neat and clean Keep latrine and shower floors swept and clean Keep toilets, showers, sinks and drains clean Keep dry toilet paper in stalls Post and fill out a fireguard Keep campsite area and trail clear of litter and brush Display patrol flags Display troop flag Display American flag Keep campsite free of hazards Remove garbage each morning GREATER ALABAMA COUNCIL CAMP SPIRIT AWARD To qualify for the Camp Spirit Award a unit will need to: Show Scout Spirit Wear field uniform to all evening meals Attend all morning flag ceremonies Attend evening flag ceremony Provide a song, run-on or cheer in the Dining Hall during a meal Senior Patrol Leader attends all SPL meetings Unit performs a conservation project, which must be approved by the Camp Ranger or the Ecology Director. 50% of Scouts earn at least one merit badge Unit participates in camp-wide games (Adventure Valley or Water Carnival) Be represented in Mile Swim or Triathlon Provide a song or skit for campfire program Help conduct a flag ceremony At least 50% of troop attend vesper service Clean the visitors latrine at least once Provide volunteer adult leader or CIT to serve on staff during a different week Provide one youth member, per meal, to help with dining hall clean-up Participate in its own evening program (such as ice cream social or campfire) once during the week See the grading sheet in the Miscellaneous Forms Section of this Guide SUMMER CAMP STAFF OPPORTUNITIES The Greater Alabama Council is already making plans for the best summer programs ever in 2007 and YOU can be a part of them at Camp Sequoyah, Camp Comer. Boy Scouts and Venturers who are 15 years old and older may work as full-time staff members at Camp Comer or Camp Sequoyah. 21

21 Seasonal positions are available in aquatics, ecology, shooting sports, Scout craft and handicraft areas as well as specialty areas such as climbing/rappelling, health services, trading post, dining hall, maintenance and administration. Staff members have an opportunity to work with youth of all ages and backgrounds. Staff members are expected to be present for the entire camping season. Being on staff is a truly unforgettable experience. The work is demanding but the opportunities, experiences and rewards are endless. It s the best way to spend your summer! Staff camp dates for 2007 are May 27 through July 7 at Camp Sequoyah and May 27 through July 14 at Camp Comer. Some staff may be required to stay a few additional days. Greater Alabama Council camp staff members receive free room and board, a competitive salary and the kind of strong experience sought by employers. In addition they have daily unique teaching and learning opportunities. They gain friendships that last a lifetime, countless stories to tell and unlimited FUN. Copy the staff application in the appendix and send it in today. Let us know where you would like to work and what you can do. Be sure to have your Scoutmaster to sign your completed form. We will contact you to schedule an interview. If you have questions, call and ask for the Director of Camping Scoutmasters, you too can be a part of preparing for camp by helping train our staff. Here s how you can help: Attend staff week on Thursday and Friday and mentor a staff member. Help him to develop his teaching skills and materials. We need help in all merit badges and in the first year camper programs. If you have completed Wood Badge, then you know the importance of teaching aids and methods. Come to camp and share what you have learned and the camps and the council will be much better because of your interest COUNSELOR IN TRAINING PROGRAM Purpose and Goals The Counselor In Training (CIT) program is designed to train possible future staff members for camp and at the same time to provide training for junior leaders and instructors in troops. The program is structured to help Scouts learn to work with peers and adults, and to develop leadership skills, teaching ability, and responsibility. Scouts may be allowed to work up to four weeks in the CIT program. An opportunity to complete some Scout advancement requirements will usually be provided. There is no charge or salary for the program, however, Scouts participating as a CIT for two weeks will be allowed to attend camp FREE with their troop. Parents are responsible for transportation to and from camp. Free weeks must be used in the year they are earned or will be forfeited. Requirements for Application and Acceptance Be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America Be at least 14 years of age when in camp as a CIT Be recommended by Scoutmaster Have experience in leadership in his unit and have the recommendation of his unit leader. Hold the rank of Star Scout or higher. Be in excellent mental and physical health. 22