POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

RISK MANAGEMENT

Some activities can carry a greater risk than others which create a greater potential for serious injury to the participant. Therefore, it is important that these activities be conducted with companies or organizations that offer such activities in a safe manner. Horseback riding, hayrides, and canoeing are examples of hazardous activities with the potential for serious injury to the participants.

The council will only do business with those organizations that operate within government and Girl Scout safety guidelines and that carry insurance to protect themselves for the legal liability of their operations. Coverage provided by the program provider must be the primary payer in the event of a loss.

HIGH-RISK ACTIVITIES

High-risk activities are activities that demand more physical prowess, emotional stamina, and greater skills than most activities. Although such activities may offer challenging experiences that promote girls’ growth and development, they also involve a wide range of variables that require extensive planning and expertise to control. These activities often require specialized skills, training, equipment and supervision.  Care must be taken to control the risks involved.

When considering planning a high-risk activity, use the following checklist:

• The activity has been evaluated and is found to be appropriate for these girls, based on the age and experience of the girls.

• The Safety-Wise checkpoints for this activity have been reviewed and are being followed.

• The potential risks have been identified and a plan is in place to minimize and respond to risks.

• The skills, training and behavior necessary to participate in this activity have been reviewed and agreed upon by the girls and their parents/guardians.

• The insurance needs of the girls have been reviewed and additional insurance purchased if necessary.

• A certificate of insurance for the activity provider is on file at the Girl Scout Center.

• “Troop Activity/ Trip Notification Form” is on file at the Girl Scout Center.

• “High-Risk Activity Permission Form” has been filled out and signed by the parent/guardian of every participant.

CONTRACTS & AGREEMENTS

In order to protect the legal and safety interests of girls, volunteers and the council, written agreements, contracts etc. may only be signed by designated staff members.

Hold Harmless Agreements
If a program provider or other organization requires the signing of a Hold Harmless Agreement, a copy of it will be requested and reviewed by one or more of the following: program services manager, service delivery manager or regional director.