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Scout Safety

Keeping Our Scouts Safe

Everyone involved in Scouting has a duty to protect our youth. If you suspect that a child has been physically or sexually abused, neglected, or exposed to any form of exploitation, you must report it to the local authorities immediately. This responsibility cannot be passed on to someone else.


Protecting our Scouts is everyone’s responsibility. When in doubt, report. For more information, visit Scouting.org.

Scouting America's 24-Hour Helpline

For any known or suspected abuse, or violations of youth protection policies, contact Scouting America’s 24-hour helpline at 844-SCOUTS FIRST (844-726-8871).

Incident Reporting

By reporting an incident In Scouting, you play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and well-being of the Boy Scouts of America community.

Youth Protection Training

Youth Protection training is required for all registered volunteers and is a joining requirement and must be taken every two years.

Guide to Safe Scouting

All participants in official Scouting activities should become familiar with the Guide to Safe Scouting and applicable program literature or manuals.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Abuse:

  1. Ensure Safety: If a child is in immediate danger, ensure they are in a safe environment and call 911 for police intervention.
  2. Report to Authorities: Make an immediate oral report to your local child protection service or law enforcement agency. The call can be made anonymously. Be prepared with as many details as possible.
  3. Inform Scout Executive: Immediately report the incident to your Scout Executive or their designee to ensure the appropriate actions are taken for the safety of our Scouts.
  4. Prepare a Written Report: Document the incident with as much detail as possible and submit it to the Scout Executive as soon as possible. Do not investigate; simply report what you know.


All reports should be made confidentially, and no investigation should be conducted by those making the report. A person who reports in good faith is immune from civil actions.

Recognize: Be aware that anyone could be an abuser.


Respond: Trust your instincts and act when something feels wrong.


Report: Immediately report any suspicious activity to a trusted adult or the appropriate authorities.

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