|
Swim Checks - Scouts & Adults
are required to prove their ability in the water before participating in
water related Scout activities. There are three classifications of swim
ability: Learner, Beginner, Swimmer. BSA policy states "A
person who has not been classified a 'swimmer' may ride as a passenger in
a rowboat or motorboat with an adult swimmer, or in a canoe, raft, or
sailboat with an adult who is trained as a lifeguard or a lifesaver by a
recognized agency. In all other circumstances, the person must be a
swimmer to participate in an activity afloat." This
qualification must be renewed annually.
What this means: To go canoeing, ALL Scouts and
Adults must be classified as 'swimmer.' No exceptions are allowed under
BSA policy. Summer Camp does not require any specific
classification except as required for individual programs and merit
badges. But, the higher the swim classification, the greater access to
waterfront areas.
| Requirements: |
| Learner: |
None, everybody is considered a Learner |
| Beginner: |
Jump feetfirst into water over the head
in depth, level off and swim 25 feet on the surface, stop,
turn sharply, resume swimming, then return to the starting
place. This is 2nd Class Scout requirement 7b. |
| Swimmer: |
Jump 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 be
swum continuously and include at least on sharp turn. After
completing the swim, rest by floating. This is also 1st Class
Scout requirement 9b. Although this must be demonstrated to
earn First Class, this qualification must be renewed annually
for waterfront activities. |
|