Scouts BSA First Class Aquatics Requirements Helps and Documents

First Class requirement 6 is is designed to ensure that Scouts are safe in the water. Scouts complete a swimming test and learn about safe boating.

6a. Successfully complete the BSA swimmer test. (See the Swimming merit badge requirements for details about the BSA swimmer test)
6b. Tell what precautions must be taken for a safe trip afloat
6c. Identify the basic parts of a canoe, kayak, or other boat. Identify the parts of a paddle or an oar.
6d. Describe proper body positioning in a watercraft, depending on the type and size of the vessel. Explain the importance of proper body position in the boat.
6e. With a helper and a practice victim, show a line rescue both as tender and as rescuer. (The practice victim should be approximately 30 feet from shore in deep water.)

Helps for this requirement are listed below.

BSA Swim Test

The BSA swim test is used to determine ability level so that participants can swim in an area which is appropriate for them.

Water Rescue Methods

Since I am focusing on an aquatics theme this month, I thought I'd post about water rescue methods. These are methods used to rescue someone who is in trouble in the water. You will see these methods throughout the BSA programs from Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA to Venturing.

Safe Swim Defense

Safe Swim Defense provides the steps which a BSA unit must take to safely participate in an activity which involves swimming.

Safety Afloat

Before embarking on a boating activity with your scouts, make sure everyone is aware of the Safety Afloat guidelines.

Safety Programs Feature for Scouts BSA

The Safety feature teaches Scouts to "Be Prepared" for hazardous situations in their homes, on the street, and while out in the woods with their troop.

Sharks and Minnows

Here is a game to go with an aquatic theme. It can be used at your pack pool party or at a meeting focused on swimming skills.

Scouts BSA First Class Rank Helps and Documents

First Class is the rank a Scout can earn after Second Class The requirements for First Class continue to teach the youth to the skills needed to advance in Scouts BSA.

Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Skill Level Limits

The most familiar application of skill level limits is the swim tests which are administered at summer camp. But there are other examples as well.

Swimming Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Swimming program feature helps Scouts learn how to safely enjoy fun and physical activity in the water. Scouts also need to know how to swim to enjoy other aquatics activities such as boating and paddling.