Purpose:

The purpose of these guidelines is to foster a positive, inclusive, and safe environment where all Scouts can thrive, learn, and grow in accordance with the values set forth by the Boy Scouts of America. By establishing clear expectations for behavior, we aim to:

1. Foster Respect and Integrity: Encourage Scouts to treat each other with kindness, fairness, and respect. Upholding the Scout Law—where a Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent—is essential to building strong character and integrity.
2. Ensure Safety: Safety is a top priority in all troop activities. This Code of Conduct helps ensure that Scouts follow guidelines that protect their physical and emotional well-being. Whether in meetings, on outings, or during camping trips, each Scout’s responsibility is to act in a way that promotes the safety of themselves and others.
3. Promote Personal Responsibility: Scouts are encouraged to take ownership of their actions, both positive and negative. The Code of Conduct serves as a guide to help Scouts understand the importance of personal responsibility, the consequences of their behavior, and the importance of making amends when necessary.
4. Encourage Active Participation: Participation in troop activities is not only a requirement but also an opportunity for personal growth, skill development, and camaraderie. This Code of Conduct reinforces the importance of being engaged, prepared, and punctual, ensuring that each Scout can fully benefit from the Scouting experience.
5. Support Teamwork and Leadership Development: Scouting is about working together, supporting one another, and developing leadership skills. The Code of Conduct outlines expectations for how Scouts should interact with their peers and leaders, encouraging a spirit of cooperation, mutual support, and leadership that is in line with the principles of Scouting.
6. Uphold the Values of Scouting: The Scout Oath and Law are central to the mission of Scouting. This Code of Conduct is designed to help Scouts internalize these values, guiding their behavior and decisions in all aspects of their lives, both within and outside of Scouting.

By following these guidelines, each member of Troop 42 commits to contributing to a positive environment where all Scouts can learn, grow, and succeed, both as individuals and as members of a cohesive and supportive team.

Please note that Scouts BSA also has a Guide to Safe Scouting that contains much more comprehensive information on this subject. The guide is available at: 

General Behavior:

1. Respect for Others:
   • Courtesy and Politeness: Scouts must always treat others with courtesy, speaking kindly and respectfully to fellow Scouts, leaders, and all individuals they interact with. This includes respecting differing opinions, backgrounds, and beliefs.
   • No Bullying, Hazing, or Harassment: Troop 42 has zero tolerance for any form of bullying, hazing, or harassment. This includes physical, verbal, or cyberbullying. All Scouts are responsible for creating an environment where everyone feels safe and valued.
   • Respect for Leadership: Scouts should show respect for all troop leaders, including adult leaders and youth leaders, by listening attentively, following instructions, and participating fully in activities.
2. Safety:
   • Adherence to Safety Rules: Scouts must follow all safety guidelines provided by troop leaders, especially during outdoor activities, camping, and when handling tools or equipment. This includes wearing appropriate gear, using equipment safely, and reporting any unsafe conditions.
   • Buddy System: Scouts are required to use the buddy system at all times, ensuring that no one is left alone and that each Scout has someone to help them in case of an emergency.
   • Emergency Preparedness: Scouts should know and follow emergency procedures for different situations (e.g., fire drills, first aid, lost Scout protocol) and be ready to act quickly and calmly if needed.
3. Participation:
   • Active Engagement: Scouts are expected to actively participate in all troop activities, meetings, and events. This includes contributing to discussions, volunteering for tasks, and being a positive, engaged member of the troop.
   • Punctuality: Being on time shows respect for others’ time. Scouts should arrive promptly for all meetings and activities, ready to begin as scheduled.
   • Preparation: Scouts must come prepared with the necessary materials and gear for each activity. This includes having required badges, tools, notebooks, and proper clothing, ensuring they are ready to fully participate.
4. Uniform:
   • Proper Attire: The uniform is a key part of Scouting identity. Scouts are required to wear the full and correct uniform to all meetings, ceremonies, and events, unless otherwise specified by troop leadership.
   • Care of Uniform: Scouts should keep their uniform neat, clean, and in good condition. Badges should be properly sewn on, and uniforms should be free of rips or excessive wear.
   • Pride in the Uniform: Wearing the uniform correctly reflects pride in the Scout’s membership in the troop and the larger Scouting movement. Scouts should wear their uniform respectfully, representing themselves and the troop honorably.
5. Language:
   • Appropriate Speech: Scouts must use language that is respectful and appropriate in all settings. Profanity, slurs, or offensive remarks are strictly prohibited, whether in person, online, or through any other form of communication.
   • Positive Communication: Scouts should focus on positive, constructive communication, avoiding gossip, negative talk, or hurtful comments about others.
   • Listening Respectfully: Just as important as speaking respectfully is listening to others with attention and respect, allowing everyone to express their thoughts and opinions without interruption.
6. Respect for Property:
   • Troop Property: Scouts are expected to care for all troop equipment and property as if it were their own. This includes proper use, maintenance, and storage of tents, cooking gear, tools, and other equipment.
   • Personal Property: Scouts should respect the personal property of others, asking permission before using something that doesn’t belong to them and returning it in the same condition.
   • Facilities and Campsites: Whether meeting in a school, church, community center, or campsite, Scouts must treat all facilities with respect. This includes cleaning up after themselves, not damaging property, and leaving spaces better than they found them.
7. Responsibility:
   • Own Your Actions: Scouts are responsible for their own actions and decisions. When mistakes are made, Scouts should take responsibility, apologize, and work to correct the situation.
   • Honesty and Integrity: Scouts must always act with honesty and integrity. This means telling the truth, keeping promises, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
   • Accountability: Scouts should hold themselves accountable to the Scout Oath and Law, striving to live by these principles every day. If a Scout falls short, they should seek guidance from leaders on how to improve.

Meetings and Activities:

1. Attendance:
   • Commitment to Participation: Regular attendance at troop meetings and activities is essential for personal development and the success of the troop. Scouts are expected to attend all scheduled meetings, activities, and events unless excused by a parent/guardian and troop leadership.
   • Notification of Absences: If a Scout is unable to attend a meeting or activity, it is their responsibility (or that of their parent/guardian) to inform the troop leadership in advance. Consistent unexcused absences may lead to discussions with the Scout and their family about their commitment to the troop.
   • Make-Up Opportunities: For important activities or missed advancements, Scouts may have the opportunity to make up their absence through alternative assignments or participation in similar events.
2. Preparation:
   • Being Prepared: The Scout motto is “Be Prepared,” and this applies to all meetings and activities. Scouts should arrive with all necessary materials, such as notebooks, handbooks, pens, and any specific items needed for the activity, such as camping gear or uniforms.
   • Knowledge of the Agenda: Scouts should familiarize themselves with the planned agenda or schedule for the meeting or activity. This helps ensure that they are ready to participate fully and understand the purpose of the gathering.
   • Mental Readiness: In addition to bringing physical items, Scouts should also come mentally prepared, with a positive attitude and a willingness to engage in learning, teamwork, and leadership opportunities.
3. Focus and Conduct:
   • Attention and Participation: During meetings and activities, Scouts are expected to pay attention to the speaker, leader, or instructor, participate actively in discussions, and complete any tasks or assignments given. This includes taking notes, asking questions, and contributing to group work.
   • Respectful Conduct: Scouts should behave respectfully during all meetings and activities. This means following the rules of the gathering, listening without interrupting, and not distracting others. Disruptive behavior is not acceptable and will be addressed by the troop leadership.
   • Electronic Devices: Unless part of the activity or approved by the leadership, electronic devices such as phones, tablets, and gaming systems should be turned off and put away during meetings and activities to avoid distractions.
4. Teamwork and Cooperation:
   • Supporting Fellow Scouts: Scouts should always be ready to support and assist their fellow Scouts, whether during activities, projects, or games. Teamwork is a key part of Scouting, and Scouts are encouraged to help others succeed while also striving to do their best.
   • Patrol System: The patrol system is central to Scouting. Scouts should work closely with their patrol members, sharing responsibilities, collaborating on tasks, and helping to lead the group. Leadership within the patrol is rotated to give each Scout an opportunity to develop their skills.
   • Inclusive Participation: Scouts should strive to include all members in activities and ensure that everyone has a chance to contribute. Scouts should be aware of others’ needs and be willing to modify tasks or activities to ensure inclusivity.
5. Leadership Development:
   • Opportunities to Lead: Scouts will have various opportunities to take on leadership roles during meetings and activities, such as leading a discussion, teaching a skill, or organizing an event. Scouts are encouraged to embrace these opportunities and develop their leadership abilities.
   • Respecting Leaders: Whether adult leaders or peer leaders, all leaders should be treated with respect. Scouts should follow their instructions, provide support, and give constructive feedback when appropriate. Leaders, in turn, should lead by example, demonstrating the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
   • Mentorship and Guidance: Older Scouts and leaders are encouraged to mentor younger Scouts, helping them learn new skills, understand troop traditions, and grow into leadership roles themselves. This mentorship is key to building a strong, cohesive troop.
6. Health and Well-being:
   • Physical Well-being: Scouts are expected to take care of their physical health, including staying hydrated, eating properly, and getting enough rest, especially during physically demanding activities like camping or hiking.
   • Emotional Well-being: Scouts should be mindful of their emotional well-being and that of their peers. Leaders and fellow Scouts should be approachable for support when needed, and the troop should foster an environment where everyone feels safe to express their feelings.
   • First Aid and Emergency Preparedness: Scouts should be familiar with basic first aid and emergency procedures. Leaders will provide guidance and training, but Scouts should take personal responsibility for knowing what to do in case of injury or emergency during meetings and activities.

Camping and Outdoor Activities:

1. Leave No Trace:
   • Environmental Stewardship: Scouts must follow the principles of Leave No Trace, which are designed to minimize the impact on the environment during outdoor activities. This includes respecting wildlife, staying on designated trails, and avoiding actions that could damage natural habitats.
   • Waste Disposal: All waste must be packed out or disposed of properly. Scouts should bring trash bags on all outings and ensure that all litter, including food scraps, is collected and removed from the site. Scouts should also be mindful of biodegradable waste and ensure it is disposed of according to Leave No Trace principles.
   • Minimizing Campfire Impact: When campfires are permitted, Scouts should use established fire rings, keep fires small, and ensure that all fires are completely extinguished before leaving the site. Scouts should avoid burning plastics or other non-natural materials that can harm the environment.
2. Fire Safety:
   • Campfire Rules: Scouts should never start a fire without the permission and supervision of a qualified leader. Campfires must always be built in designated areas, such as fire rings or pits, and should be kept small and manageable.
   • Extinguishing Fires: Before leaving a campsite or going to bed, Scouts must ensure that all fires are completely out by dousing them with water, stirring the ashes, and dousing them again until they are cool to the touch.
   • Fire Tool Safety: Scouts must handle fire tools, such as matches, lighters, and fire-starters, with care. These should be stored safely when not in use and only used under appropriate supervision.
3. Food and Cooking:
   • Meal Planning and Preparation: Scouts should work together to plan meals that are nutritious, balanced, and appropriate for the conditions (e.g., lightweight foods for backpacking). Scouts are expected to help with cooking duties, whether it’s gathering ingredients, cooking, or cleaning up.
   • Safe Food Handling: Scouts must follow safe food handling practices to prevent foodborne illness. This includes washing hands before handling food, keeping raw and cooked foods separate, and ensuring that perishable items are stored at safe temperatures.
   • Camp Kitchen Safety: The camp kitchen should be kept clean and organized. Scouts should use knives, stoves, and other cooking equipment safely and under supervision. All food should be properly stored to avoid attracting wildlife.
4. Behavior in Nature:
   • Respecting Wildlife: Scouts should observe wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding or disturbing animals. Scouts must follow guidelines for storing food and trash to prevent attracting animals to campsites.
   • Quiet Hours: Quiet hours should be respected, particularly in the early morning and late evening, to allow fellow campers and wildlife to rest undisturbed. Scouts should avoid loud noises, shouting, or playing music during these times.
   • Appropriate Interaction with Nature: Scouts should avoid picking plants, disturbing rocks or logs, or otherwise altering the natural environment. Any interaction with nature should be conducted with care, respecting the ecosystem and its inhabitants.
5. Campsite Responsibilities:
   • Setting Up Camp: Scouts should work as a team to set up camp efficiently and safely. This includes pitching tents, setting up cooking areas, and establishing designated areas for activities. Scouts should follow any campsite rules and regulations provided by the land management authority.
   • Camp Chores: Scouts are responsible for participating in camp chores, such as collecting firewood, purifying water, or cleaning up the campsite. These chores should be shared among all members to ensure a fair distribution of work.
   • Packing Up: When breaking camp, Scouts should ensure that all gear is packed properly, trash is collected, and the campsite is left in better condition than it was found. Scouts should also conduct a final sweep of the area to ensure nothing is left behind.
6. Safety and Preparedness:
   • Appropriate Gear: Scouts should bring and use appropriate gear for the specific outdoor activity, including proper clothing, footwear, sleeping bags, and personal items. Leaders will provide guidance on required gear, and Scouts should pack accordingly to ensure they are prepared for various weather conditions and terrain.
   • First Aid: Scouts should carry a basic first aid kit and know how to use its contents. Scouts should be familiar with basic first aid procedures, including how to treat cuts, blisters, insect bites, and minor burns, and when to seek help for more serious injuries.
   • Navigation and Communication: Scouts should carry and know how to use maps, compasses, or GPS devices, especially during hikes or backcountry activities. Scouts should also be aware of the troop’s communication plan, including the use of radios, cell phones, or signal devices, and know how to reach help in case of an emergency.
7. Weather Awareness:
   • Weather Monitoring: Scouts should be aware of the weather forecast before and during outdoor activities. Leaders will monitor conditions, but Scouts should also be prepared to adjust plans if weather conditions change, such as seeking shelter during storms or dressing in layers for cold weather.
   • Sun and Heat Protection: During hot weather activities, Scouts should wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, and ensure they stay hydrated. They should also be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and know how to prevent and respond to these conditions.
   • Cold Weather Precautions: In cold weather, Scouts should dress in layers, stay dry, and be aware of the signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Scouts should know how to keep warm in camp, including proper sleeping bag use and campsite selection for shelter from wind.
8. Behavior Towards Fellow Campers:
   • Camaraderie and Support: Camping is an opportunity for Scouts to build strong bonds with their fellow troop members. Scouts should encourage one another, share responsibilities, and work together to solve problems that arise during outdoor activities.
   • Respecting Personal Space: While camping involves close quarters, Scouts should respect the personal space and privacy of others. This includes keeping noise levels down in tents, not entering another Scout’s tent without permission, and respecting others’ belongings.
   • Inclusivity and Team Spirit: Scouts should ensure that all members feel included in activities and tasks. No one should be left out or made to feel unwelcome. Scouts should promote a team spirit where everyone’s contributions are valued.

Appropriate Food and Beverages:

1. Healthy and Nutritious Choices:
   • Balanced Meals: Scouts are encouraged to bring and consume healthy, balanced meals during Scouting activities. This includes a mix of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein sources. Junk food, such as chips, candy, and soda, should be limited to promote good health and energy levels during activities.
   • Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Scouts must be mindful of their fellow Scouts’ allergies and dietary restrictions. When bringing food to share, Scouts should avoid common allergens like peanuts or shellfish unless explicitly approved by troop leadership. Scouts with dietary restrictions should communicate their needs to leaders in advance.
2. Prohibited Beverages:
   • Sugary and Caffeinated Drinks: Sugary drinks like soda and energy drinks, as well as high-caffeine beverages like coffee and energy shots, are discouraged during Scouting activities. These beverages can lead to dehydration, energy crashes, and are not conducive to sustained physical activity.
   • Alcohol: The possession or consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited for all Scouts during any Scouting activity, regardless of the setting. This applies to all youth and adult participants.
   • Inappropriate Beverages: Any beverage that contains harmful substances or could negatively impact health or behavior, such as “energy cocktails” or drinks with unapproved additives, is not allowed.
3. Hydration and Water Consumption:
   • Water as the Primary Beverage: Scouts are encouraged to drink water regularly, especially during outdoor and physical activities. Scouts should bring personal water bottles to all activities and ensure they stay hydrated throughout the day.
   • Electrolyte Drinks: In some cases, electrolyte drinks (like sports drinks) may be appropriate for rehydration during intense physical activities, but these should be consumed in moderation. Plain water should still be the primary source of hydration.
4. Snacks and Meal Planning:
   • Appropriate Snacks: When bringing snacks, Scouts should opt for nutritious options like fruit, nuts, granola bars, or yogurt. Snacks should be portable, non-perishable, and easy to consume during activities without creating litter.
   • Meal Preparation: During camping trips or extended activities, Scouts should plan meals that are easy to prepare and aligned with the principles of Leave No Trace. Meals should be cooked and consumed responsibly, with attention to portion sizes to minimize waste.

Prohibited Items:

To maintain a safe, respectful, and focused environment, certain items are not allowed during any Scouting activities, including meetings, camping trips, and other events. Possession of prohibited items may result in immediate consequences, including removal from the activity and further disciplinary actions.

1. Weapons:
   • Firearms and Explosives: Scouts are strictly prohibited from bringing firearms, ammunition, explosives, or any other dangerous weapons to any Scouting event. This includes BB guns, airsoft guns, paintball guns, fireworks, and any items that could be used to cause harm or create a hazardous situation.
   • Knives: While pocket knives are allowed under certain conditions (such as when earned through the Totin’ Chip certification), Scouts are not permitted to carry large knives, hunting knives, or any blade that is deemed inappropriate by troop leadership. All knives must be used responsibly and stored safely.
   • Other Weapons: Items that could be used as weapons, such as slingshots, brass knuckles, or martial arts tools, are also prohibited.
2. Illegal Substances:
   • Drugs: Scouts are not allowed to possess, use, or distribute illegal drugs or controlled substances at any Scouting event. This includes any form of illegal narcotics, recreational drugs, or misuse of prescription medications.
   • Alcohol: The possession or consumption of alcohol by Scouts is strictly prohibited during all Scouting activities. This rule applies to all Scouts, regardless of age, and extends to adult leaders when in the presence of Scouts.
   • Tobacco and Vaping Products: The use or possession of tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and vaping devices (e-cigarettes), is prohibited for all Scouts. Adult leaders are also expected to refrain from using these products in the presence of Scouts.
3. Inappropriate Media:
   • Pornographic Material: The possession or distribution of any form of pornographic material, including magazines, videos, or digital content, is strictly forbidden. This includes any content that is sexually explicit, graphic, or inappropriate for the Scouting environment.
   • Offensive Media: Scouts should not bring any media, such as books, music, movies, or games, that contain violent, offensive, or inappropriate content. This includes materials that promote hate, discrimination, or any form of negative behavior contrary to the Scout Oath and Law.
4. Electronic Devices:
   • Personal Electronic Devices: While some electronic devices, such as smartphones, may be allowed for specific purposes (e.g., navigation or emergency contact), they should be used responsibly and only as permitted by troop leadership. Devices like gaming consoles, tablets, and other entertainment electronics are generally prohibited during Scouting activities, as they can be distracting and detract from the outdoor experience.
   • Social Media and Communication: Scouts are expected to use any allowed electronic devices in a way that is respectful and appropriate. Posting on social media during Scouting activities should be done with caution, respecting the privacy and rights of others. Cyberbullying, inappropriate messaging, or misuse of communication tools will not be tolerated.
5. Other Hazardous Items:
   • Flammable Materials: Flammable items such as gasoline, lighter fluid, or other accelerants should only be handled by adult leaders and used under strict supervision. Scouts are not permitted to bring or use these items unless under direct leadership guidance.
   • Hazardous Chemicals: Scouts should not bring any hazardous chemicals, including cleaning agents, insecticides, or other substances that could pose a danger to themselves or others. All necessary chemicals for troop activities will be provided and handled by trained leaders.
   • Items Not Authorized by Troop Leadership: Any other item deemed unsafe, inappropriate, or unnecessary by troop leadership will be prohibited. Leaders will have the final say on what items are allowed or disallowed during any Scouting event.
6. Exceptions and Special Circumstances:
   • Medical Necessities: If a Scout requires the use of certain items for medical reasons, such as prescription medication or medical devices, these must be disclosed to troop leadership beforehand. Medications should be handled according to the troop’s medical policies, ensuring safety and compliance with Scouting guidelines.
   • Parental and Leadership Approval: In some cases, certain items may be allowed with prior approval from both parents/guardians and troop leadership. Such cases should be discussed in advance to avoid any misunderstandings or safety issues