The Sweet 16 of BSA Safety describe the measures we should use at all Scouting activities. The third point of the Sweet 16 is the Buddy System (see below).
I always tell my Scouts that of all of the things they can do to keep themselves safe, none is more important than the buddy system. Not only is it essential to youth protection, but it is just common sense. Not only can their buddy help them if there is a problem, but just having someone there can keep them calm in an emergency situation. And they are less likely to make a bad decision if they are calm.
And so if I see a Scout walking around by himself at camp, I always say “Hey Scout – where’s your buddy?” even if he’s not in my unit.
From the Sweet 16 of BSA Safety on the Scouting.org website:
3. BUDDY SYSTEM
The long history of the “buddy system” in Scouting has shown that it is always best to have at least one other person with you and aware at all times as to your circumstances and what you are doing in any outdoor or strenuous activity.
