Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Moderate
Setting: Indoor, community activities
Best For: Scouts interested in safety, planning, helping others
Hands-On Level: Moderate
Eagle Required: Yes*

*Either the Emergency Preparedness merit badge OR the Lifesaving merit badge is required for the rank of Eagle Scout. Scouts who earn both badges may count the second badge as an elective.

The Emergency Preparedness merit badge teaches you how to respond when something goes wrong. You learn what to do during storms, fires, accidents, and other emergencies. You also learn how to help protect yourself and the people around you. These skills can help you stay calm and make good decisions in difficult situations.

As you work on this badge, you learn how to prepare before an emergency happens. You make plans, gather supplies, and think about possible risks in your home and community. You also learn ways to prevent emergencies and reduce danger. Being prepared helps you feel more confident and ready to act when needed.

This merit badge also helps you grow as a leader. You practice working with others and helping your patrol, troop, family, and community. You learn that emergency preparedness is about service and responsibility. The skills you learn for this badge can help you throughout your life.

The requirements for the Emergency Preparedness merit badge were updated effective January 1, 2026.

Download the Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge Requirements

Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge Pamphlet

Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Home Safety Checklist

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Emergency Preparedness merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Emergency Situations
• Requirement 2: Planning for Family Emergencies
• Requirement 3: Preventing Accidents and Emergencies
• Requirement 4: Dangerous Situations
• Requirement 5: Signaling for Help
• Requirement 6: Moving an Injured Person
• Requirement 7: National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS)
• Requirement 8: Emergency Service
• Requirement 9: First Aid Merit Badge
• Requirement 10: Careers and Opportunities
• More Resources

Requirement 1a: Emergency Preparedness Basics

What You Need To Do

Talk with your counselor about the five parts of emergency preparedness: prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery. Go over the important questions you should ask for each one. These questions help you prepare for emergencies before they happen and help you react in a safe way.

Helpful Tips

• Prevention means stopping emergencies before they happen.
• Protection means keeping people and property safe during an emergency.
• Mitigation means reducing damage or injury.
• Response means the actions you take during an emergency.
• Recovery means getting life back to normal after the emergency.
• Ask what dangers could happen in your home, school, or community.
• Ask what supplies you might need for different emergencies.
• Ask who can help during an emergency.
• Ask how you would contact family members if phones do not work.
• Make notes before meeting with your counselor.

Resources

• 5 Steps of Disaster Risk Management (video)

Leader Tips

• Use real-life examples from your area.
• Help Scouts connect the five parts to common emergencies.
• Encourage short discussions instead of long lectures.
• Ask Scouts to share ideas from home or troop activities.

Requirement 1b: Emergency Situations Chart

What You Need To Do

Make a chart, spreadsheet, or another approved project about emergency preparedness. Use the five areas from requirement 1a for 10 emergency situations from the list. Review your work with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

Home Stovetop or Oven Fire

• Keep towels and paper away from the stove.
• Stay in the kitchen while cooking.
• Put a lid on a grease fire if it is safe.
• Turn off the burner if possible.
• Never use water on a grease fire.
• Leave the house and call 911 if the fire spreads.

Home Flammable Liquid Fire

• Store gasoline and solvents away from heat.
• Keep flammable liquids in approved containers.
• Do not use open flames near spills.
• Leave the area if fumes become strong.
• Use a fire extinguisher only for small fires.
• Call 911 for large fires.

Gas Leak in or Near a Home or With Outside Cooking

• Leave the area right away if you smell gas.
• Do not use light switches or electronics.
• Keep flames and sparks away from the area.
• Shut off outdoor propane tanks if safe.
• Call the gas company or 911 from a safe place.
• Do not return until officials say it is safe.

Food Poisoning

• Wash hands before cooking or eating.
• Keep raw meat separate from other food.
• Cook food to safe temperatures.
• Refrigerate leftovers quickly.
• Drink water to prevent dehydration.
• Get medical help for severe symptoms.

Automobile Crash

• Wear a seat belt every trip.
• Move to a safe area if possible.
• Call 911 after a crash.
• Turn on hazard lights.
• Check for injuries carefully.
• Keep an emergency kit in the vehicle.

Vehicle Stalled in the Desert

• Carry extra water in the vehicle.
• Stay with the vehicle if stranded.
• Use the shade from the vehicle.
• Avoid heavy activity during the day.
• Signal for help with bright items.
• Keep a charged phone and emergency supplies.

Vehicle Trapped in a Blizzard

• Stay inside the vehicle.
• Run the engine for short periods.
• Clear snow from the exhaust pipe.
• Use blankets and extra clothing for warmth.
• Turn on hazard lights if possible.
• Keep emergency food and water in the vehicle.

Backcountry Injury

• Carry a first aid kit on hikes.
• Tell someone your travel plans.
• Stay calm during an injury.
• Protect the injured person from weather.
• Use basic first aid skills.
• Signal for help if needed.

Boating or Water Accident

• Wear a life jacket near water.
• Keep safety gear on the boat.
• Stay with the boat if it overturns.
• Call for help right away.
• Watch weather conditions before boating.
• Avoid alcohol while boating.

Toxic Chemical Spills and Releases

• Stay away from the spill area.
• Follow emergency alerts and instructions.
• Cover your nose and mouth if needed.
• Leave the area if officials order evacuation.
• Avoid touching unknown materials.
• Wash exposed skin with water.

Nuclear Power Plant Emergency

• Listen to emergency broadcasts.
• Follow evacuation or shelter instructions.
• Keep emergency supplies ready.
• Close windows and doors during shelter orders.
• Use battery-powered radios for updates.
• Stay away from restricted areas.

Fire or Explosion in a Public Place

• Locate exits when entering buildings.
• Leave the area quickly and calmly.
• Stay low if there is smoke.
• Help others if safe.
• Move far from the danger area.
• Call 911 when safe.

Violence in a Public Place

• Leave the area if possible.
• Hide if escape is not safe.
• Silence phones and stay quiet.
• Follow police instructions.
• Help injured people after danger passes.
• Report suspicious activity quickly.

Wildland Fire

• Follow evacuation orders immediately.
• Clear dry brush near homes.
• Keep emergency bags ready.
• Wear long sleeves and sturdy shoes.
• Stay away from smoke when possible.
• Watch local fire reports.

Avalanche

• Check avalanche conditions before trips.
• Travel with safety gear.
• Avoid risky slopes after heavy snow.
• Stay with a group in snowy areas.
• Call for rescue help quickly.
• Take avalanche safety training.

Earthquake

• Drop, cover, and hold on.
• Stay away from windows.
• Secure heavy furniture at home.
• Move to open areas after shaking stops.
• Watch for aftershocks.
• Keep emergency supplies ready.

Tsunami

• Move to high ground after strong earthquakes.
• Stay away from beaches during warnings.
• Follow evacuation routes.
• Listen to emergency alerts.
• Do not return until officials allow it.
• Keep emergency kits ready.

Major Flooding or Flash Flood With Water Outage

• Move to higher ground quickly.
• Never drive through flood water.
• Store clean drinking water ahead of time.
• Avoid flood water when walking.
• Turn off electricity if safe.
• Boil water if safety is uncertain.

Hurricane With Power Outage

• Board up windows before storms.
• Charge phones and batteries early.
• Store extra food and water.
• Stay indoors during the storm.
• Use flashlights instead of candles.
• Watch weather updates often.

Tornado

• Go to a basement or small interior room.
• Stay away from windows.
• Keep helmets or blankets nearby.
• Listen for weather warnings.
• Practice tornado drills at home.
• Stay sheltered until the warning ends.

Lightning Storm

• Go indoors when thunder starts.
• Stay away from water and tall objects.
• Avoid using wired electronics.
• Wait 30 minutes after thunder before going outside.
• Watch weather forecasts before outdoor activities.
• Seek shelter quickly during storms.

Resources

• How to Put Out a Stovetop Fire (video)
• Flammable Liquids (video)
• What to Do If You Smell Gas (video)
• How to Turn Off Main Gas Valve (video)
• Stomach Flu and Food Poisoning (video)
• Safe Food Handling (video)
• How to Know If You Have Food Poisoning (video)
• Responding to a Car Crash (video)
• A Desert Survival Experience (video)
• How to Survive A Car Stranding in Winter (video)
• Patient Assessment (video)
• Review of Traumatic Injuries with Wilderness First Aid (video)
• Preventing and Managing Boating Accidents (website)
• Chemical Spill Preparedness (video)
• Household Chemical Emergencies (website)
• How to Stay Safe in a Nuclear Emergency (video)
• How to Survive a Building Explosion (video)
• How to Survive a Burning High-Rise (video)
• A Navy SEAL Reveals How to Survive an Active Shooter (video)
• If You Are Trapped by a Wildfire (video)
• Survive an Avalanche (video)
• How to Survive a Landslide (video)
• 10 Ways to Survive an Earthquake (video)
• How to Survive a Tsunami (video)
• How to Survive a Flood (video)
• How to Survive a Hurricane (video)
• How to Survive a Tornado (video)
• What Happens When You Are Struck by Lightning (video)
• Backcountry Lightning Safety (website)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts pick emergency situations related to their area.
• Encourage simple charts with clear categories.
• Review safety information before discussions.
• Remind Scouts to focus on practical actions people can take.

Requirement 2a: Family Emergency Plans

What You Need To Do

Meet with your family and talk about the emergency situations from your chart. Make plans for sheltering-in-place and evacuation. Review the plans with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Pick a safe meeting place outside your home.
• Choose another meeting place outside your neighborhood.
• Write down important phone numbers.
• Keep emergency contacts in more than one place.
• Plan several escape routes from your home.
• Check which rooms are safest during storms.
• Decide who will help younger children or pets.
• Practice how to leave the home quickly.
• Review where to go during floods, tornadoes, or fires.
• Keep emergency supplies in an easy-to-reach place.

Resources

• How to Shelter in Place (video)
• How to Evacuate From Wildfires (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to involve the whole family.
• Remind Scouts to include pets and special medical needs.
• Suggest practice drills during different times of day.
• Review local emergency risks with the troop.

Requirement 2b: Home Fire Escape Plan

What You Need To Do

Create and practice a fire escape plan for your family. Draw a floor plan of your home with escape routes and a safe meeting place. Review the plan with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Draw doors, windows, and hallways on your map.
• Mark two exits from each room if possible.
• Pick a safe meeting place outside the home.
• Keep exits clear of clutter.
• Test smoke alarms every month.
• Practice escaping in the dark.
• Crawl low under smoke during drills.
• Check doors for heat before opening them.
• Practice getting out in less than two minutes.
• Call 911 after leaving the home.

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to practice drills with their families.
• Remind Scouts to update maps after home changes.
• Review basic fire safety before discussions.
• Ask Scouts about smoke alarm locations in their homes.

Requirement 2c: Family Disaster Kits

What You Need To Do

Prepare or inspect family disaster kits for sheltering-in-place and evacuation. Use a checklist from the merit badge pamphlet or one approved by your counselor. Review the items and their uses with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Store enough water for several days.
• Include nonperishable food items.
• Pack flashlights and extra batteries.
• Keep a first aid kit in the supplies.
• Add medications and medical information.
• Include blankets or warm clothing.
• Store copies of important documents safely.
• Pack hygiene items such as soap and wipes.
• Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
• Check expiration dates on food and medicine.
• Use backpacks or containers that are easy to carry.
• Keep part of the kit near an exit for quick evacuation.

Resources

• Checklist for Sheltering in Place (PDF)
• Checklist for Evacuation (PDF)
• Build a Kit (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to check kits twice each year.
• Remind Scouts to adjust kits for weather and local risks.
• Suggest adding supplies for pets and infants when needed.
• Review how different items help during emergencies.

Requirement 3a: Home Safety Inspection

What You Need To Do

Use a home safety checklist to inspect a home, camp building, or similar place with an adult. Look for safety hazards and review your findings with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Look for blocked exits or cluttered hallways.
• Make sure fire extinguishers are easy to reach.
• Check electrical cords for damage.
• Store cleaning supplies and chemicals safely.
• Look for tripping hazards on floors and stairs.
• Check if heavy furniture is secured to walls.
• Review outdoor areas for unsafe conditions.
• Make sure emergency phone numbers are easy to find.
• Inspect kitchens for fire hazards near stoves or ovens.

Resources

• Checklists Home Safety (PDF)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to inspect both indoor and outdoor areas.
• Remind Scouts to work with a trusted adult.
• Review common home hazards before inspections.
• Ask Scouts how hazards could be fixed or reduced.

Requirement 3b: Emergency Prevention Plans for Activities

What You Need To Do

Create emergency prevention plans for five family activities outside the home. Include possible hazards and actions for prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery. Review the plans with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Pick activities your family does often.
• Include weather hazards for outdoor activities.
• Plan meeting places in crowded areas.
• Carry a first aid kit for outings.
• Keep emergency contact numbers with you.
• Check maps and directions before traveling.
• Review exits at theaters, stadiums, and churches.
• Bring extra water during outdoor events.
• Watch children closely near water or traffic.
• Include plans for lost phones or separated family members.

Resources

• Building an Emergency Kit (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use real family activities.
• Help Scouts focus on practical safety steps.
• Review how different emergencies change response plans.
• Remind Scouts to include recovery actions in each plan.

Requirement 4a: Live Household Electric Wire

What You Need To Do

Show how to help a person near a live household electric wire without putting yourself in danger. Use safe actions and avoid direct contact with electricity.

Helpful Tips

• Never touch a person who is connected to electricity.
• Turn off power at the breaker box if possible.
• Stay away from water near electrical hazards.
• Use a dry wooden or plastic object to move wires only if necessary.
• Call 911 right away.
• Keep other people away from the area.
• Watch for sparks or smoke.
• Wait for trained emergency workers when possible.
• Check the person for breathing after the power is off.
• Give first aid only after the area is safe.

Resources

• Rescue and First Aid for Electric Shock (video)

Leader Tips

• Review electrical safety before demonstrations.
• Use role-playing instead of real hazards.
• Remind Scouts to avoid direct contact with wires.
• Encourage calm actions during emergencies.

Requirement 4b: Structure Filled With Carbon Monoxide

What You Need To Do

Show how to help a person from a structure filled with carbon monoxide without entering danger yourself. Focus on safe evacuation and emergency response.

Helpful Tips

• Leave the building immediately if carbon monoxide is suspected.
• Do not reenter the building.
• Call 911 from outside.
• Move affected people into fresh air if safe.
• Watch for dizziness, headaches, or confusion.
• Keep doors open while leaving if possible.
• Warn others nearby about the danger.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors in homes.
• Do not use grills or generators indoors.
• Wait for emergency workers before returning inside.

Resources

• Rescue from CO Poisoning (video)

Leader Tips

• Explain common sources of carbon monoxide.
• Use examples from homes, garages, and campsites.
• Remind Scouts that carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled.
• Encourage Scouts to focus on evacuation first.

Requirement 4c: Clothes On Fire

What You Need To Do

Show how to help a person whose clothes are on fire. Use safe methods to stop the flames quickly.

Helpful Tips

• Tell the person to stop, drop, and roll.
• Cover flames with a blanket or heavy coat if available.
• Keep the person on the ground.
• Protect your own hands and face from flames.
• Call 911 for serious burns.
• Cool burns with clean, cool water after flames are out.
• Do not use ice on burns.
• Remove jewelry near burned areas if possible.
• Keep the person calm while waiting for help.
• Get medical care for large or severe burns.

Resources

• Stop. Drop. Roll. Get Low and Go (video)

Leader Tips

• Practice stop, drop, and roll during meetings.
• Use safe demonstrations without real fire.
• Review basic burn care steps.
• Encourage quick but calm actions.

Requirement 4d: Drowning and Nonswimming Rescues

What You Need To Do

Show how to help a drowning person using nonswimming rescue methods. Include rescues for accidents on ice. Keep yourself out of the water whenever possible.

Helpful Tips

• Reach with a pole, stick, towel, or paddle.
• Throw a rope or flotation device to the person.
• Call 911 or get help immediately.
• Talk calmly to the person in the water.
• Stay low near the edge of ice or water.
• Spread your weight if helping on ice.
• Pull the person to safety slowly.
• Avoid jumping into the water unless fully trained.
• Keep warm blankets ready after rescue.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia after cold-water rescues.

Resources

• Reach, Throw, Row, but Don’t Go! (video)
• A Patrol Performs An Ice Rescue (video)

Leader Tips

• Practice reach and throw rescues in safe settings.
• Review ice safety during winter activities.
• Remind Scouts that self-protection comes first.
• Encourage use of the buddy system near water.

Requirement 5a: Signals for Rescue Aircraft or Drones

What You Need To Do

Show three ways to attract and communicate with rescue aircraft or drones. Use signals that are easy to see from the air.

Helpful Tips

• Use a signal mirror during sunny weather.
• Make large ground signals with rocks, logs, or branches.
• Use bright clothing or tarps in open areas.
• Wave both arms slowly to get attention.
• Build three fires in a triangle if fire conditions are safe.
• Use a flashlight at night to signal aircraft.
• Keep signals large enough to see from above.
• Stay in open spaces when possible.
• Use whistle blasts in groups of three for distress.
• Avoid moving around too much after rescue crews spot you.

Resources

• Ground to Air Signals (video)

Leader Tips

• Practice signaling in open outdoor areas.
• Review fire safety before using smoke signals.
• Encourage Scouts to use simple and clear signals.
• Remind Scouts that large shapes are easier to spot from the air.

Requirement 5b: Signals for Ground Searchers

What You Need To Do

Show ways to attract the attention of ground searchers if you are lost in the wilderness. Use sound, movement, and visible signals.

Helpful Tips

• Blow a whistle in groups of three blasts.
• Stay in one area when possible.
• Wear bright clothing if available.
• Build signal fires only where safe and allowed.
• Use flashlights at night to signal searchers.
• Place gear in open areas to make yourself easier to spot.
• Mark trails with natural materials if moving is necessary.
• Use reflective items such as mirrors or foil.
• Stay calm and conserve energy.
• Listen carefully for rescuers nearby.

Resources

• Ways to Signal for Help in the Wilderness (video)

Leader Tips

• Review wilderness safety before activities.
• Practice whistle and mirror signals outdoors.
• Encourage Scouts to stay calm if lost.
• Discuss why staying in one area often helps rescuers.

Requirement 5c: Signals on the Water

What You Need To Do

Show ways to attract attention if stranded on the water with a capsized or disabled boat. Use signals that are easy for rescuers to see.

Helpful Tips

• Stay with the boat if possible.
• Wear a life jacket at all times.
• Wave brightly colored clothing or flags.
• Use a whistle or air horn to make noise.
• Shine a flashlight or signal mirror toward rescuers.
• Raise one arm and wave slowly for distress.
• Use flares only with proper training and supervision.
• Keep a waterproof flashlight in the boat.
• Stay together if more than one person is stranded.
• Conserve energy while waiting for rescue.

Resources

• Signaling Devices for a Water Rescue (video)
• Water Rescue Signaling (video)
• How does an EPIRB work? (video)
• PLB and EPIRB Emergency Beacons (video)

Leader Tips

• Review boating safety before demonstrations.
• Encourage Scouts to practice with safety equipment.
• Remind Scouts that boats are easier to spot than swimmers.
• Discuss cold-water dangers and hypothermia.

Transporting an Injured Person Safely with Improvised Stretchers

What You Need To Do

With another person, show two ways to move an injured person from a remote area using improvised stretchers. Focus on protecting the injured person and conserving the energy of rescuers.

Helpful Tips

• Check the area for danger before helping.
• Keep the injured person as still as possible.
• Use strong materials such as jackets, poles, or blankets.
• Test the stretcher before moving the person.
• Lift with your legs and not your back.
• Move slowly over rough ground.
• Keep the injured person warm during transport.
• Talk to the injured person during movement.
• Watch for pain or trouble breathing while moving.
• Take breaks if rescuers become tired.

Examples of improvised stretchers include:

• Blanket stretcher with poles
• Jacket stretcher with poles
• Tarp stretcher
• Rope stretcher
• Two-person chair carry
• Blanket drag for short distances

Resources

• Improvised Stretchers (video)

Leader Tips

• Practice stretcher building before full scenarios.
• Use safe lifting methods during demonstrations.
• Encourage teamwork and communication between rescuers.
• Remind Scouts to protect the injured person from further harm.

Requirement 7a: NIMS and ICS

What You Need To Do

Describe the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the Incident Command System (ICS). Review how emergency workers organize people and resources during emergencies.

Helpful Tips

• NIMS gives a nationwide system for handling emergencies.
• ICS is part of NIMS and helps organize emergency response.
• ICS uses one incident commander to direct operations.
• Emergency workers use clear chains of command.
• Different teams handle medical care, planning, logistics, and safety.
• ICS can expand or shrink depending on the emergency.
• Police, firefighters, and medical workers use ICS together.
• Common terms help responders avoid confusion.
• ICS helps manage communication during emergencies.
• Local emergency agencies often practice ICS during drills.

Resources

• NIMS (video)
• ICS (video)

Leader Tips

• Use examples from local emergencies or news events.
• Show how organization improves emergency response.
• Keep explanations simple and practical.
• Encourage Scouts to connect ICS to troop leadership roles.

Requirement 7b: Community Disaster Management

What You Need To Do

Find out how your community and local leaders prepare for and manage disasters. Discuss what you discover with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Check local emergency management websites.
• Find out where shelters are located.
• Learn how weather alerts are shared.
• Ask how local agencies train for emergencies.
• Review evacuation routes in your community.
• Find out which agencies respond first during disasters.
• Learn where sandbags or emergency supplies are distributed.
• Ask about community warning sirens or alert systems.
• Check if local schools or churches serve as shelters.
• Review emergency plans for floods, storms, or tornadoes.

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use local sources for information.
• Suggest visits from emergency workers when possible.
• Help Scouts connect community plans to family plans.
• Discuss common disasters in your area.

Requirement 7c: Scout Troops and ICS

What You Need To Do

Discuss how a Scout troop can help during emergencies using ICS. Focus on safe and organized support roles.

Helpful Tips

• Scouts can help distribute supplies.
• Scouts can assist with communication tasks.
• Scouts can help organize shelters.
• Scouts can direct people to safe areas if assigned.
• Scouts can support food or water distribution.
• Scouts should follow adult leadership at all times.
• Scouts should stay within their training limits.
• Troops can practice emergency plans during meetings.
• Scouts can help families prepare disaster kits.
• Scouts can assist with community service after disasters.

Leader Tips

• Remind Scouts that safety comes first.
• Review age-appropriate service roles.
• Encourage teamwork and communication practice.
• Connect troop organization to ICS structure.

Requirement 8a: Emergency Service Duties

What You Need To Do

Discuss the emergency service duties a Scout troop might perform. Review needed training and safety precautions for each type of service.

Helpful Tips

Crowd and Traffic Control

• Follow directions from adult leaders and officials.
• Wear visible clothing or safety gear.
• Stay alert around vehicles and large groups.
• Keep pathways and exits clear.
• Use calm hand signals and simple directions.
• Never try to control dangerous situations alone.

Messenger Service During an Incident

• Carry written messages when possible.
• Repeat instructions clearly and accurately.
• Move carefully through busy areas.
• Stay with assigned teams or leaders.
• Use radios or phones properly if assigned.
• Report back after delivering messages.

Collection and Distribution Services

• Organize supplies in clearly marked areas.
• Keep records of distributed items.
• Lift heavy objects safely.
• Watch for damaged or unsafe supplies.
• Work as part of a team.
• Follow directions from supervisors.

Group Feeding, Shelter, and Sanitation

• Wash hands before handling food.
• Keep food areas clean.
• Help set up sleeping areas safely.
• Dispose of trash properly.
• Keep walkways dry and uncluttered.
• Watch for health or safety concerns in shelters.

Resources

• Agency Cooperation in an ICS (video)
• Guidelines for Managing Crowds (website)
• Social Media Messaging for Natural Disasters (website)
• Food Bank (video)
• Feeding LA Wildfire Evacuees (video)

Leader Tips

• Review safety rules before service projects.
• Match tasks to Scout age and training.
• Encourage teamwork and communication.
• Remind Scouts to follow instructions from emergency officials.

Requirement 8b: Troop Mobilization Plan

What You Need To Do

Prepare a written plan for mobilizing your troop for emergency service. If your troop already has a plan, review it and discuss your role with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Include emergency contact information.
• List meeting locations for troop members.
• Identify transportation plans if needed.
• Include adult leadership responsibilities.
• Plan how information will be shared quickly.
• Keep copies of the plan in several places.
• Include backup communication methods.
• List needed equipment and supplies.
• Review safety procedures in the plan.
• Practice the mobilization plan during troop activities.

Leader Tips

• Encourage simple and organized plans.
• Review communication methods with Scouts.
• Practice mobilization drills when possible.
• Remind Scouts to follow youth protection and safety rules.

Requirement 8c: Personal Emergency Service Pack

What You Need To Do

Prepare or inspect a personal emergency service pack for a mobilization call. Review the contents and uses of the items with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Pack enough water for several hours.
• Include nonperishable snacks.
• Carry a flashlight with extra batteries.
• Pack work gloves and extra socks.
• Include a first aid kit.
• Bring rain gear or warm clothing.
• Carry a notebook and pencil.
• Include personal medications if needed.
• Keep a whistle in the pack.
• Pack hygiene items such as wipes or hand sanitizer.
• Check the pack often for missing or expired items.
• Use a backpack that is comfortable to carry.

Resources

• Checklist for Go Bag (PDF)
• Family and Personal Emergency Kits (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to keep packs lightweight.
• Review seasonal needs for weather conditions.
• Suggest labeling personal equipment clearly.
• Discuss how each item helps during emergency service.

Requirement 8d: Emergency Service Project

What You Need To Do

Take part in an emergency service project or practice exercise with a troop, school, camp, or community agency. Review the experience with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Listen carefully during instructions and briefings.
• Wear proper clothing and safety gear.
• Stay with your assigned group.
• Follow directions from adult leaders.
• Help set up or clean up when needed.
• Watch for safety hazards during activities.
• Practice communication and teamwork skills.
• Stay calm during drills or exercises.
• Ask questions if instructions are unclear.
• Review what worked well after the project.

Resources

• Emergency Procedures at Camp (video)

Leader Tips

• Choose projects that match Scout skills and training.
• Review safety procedures before activities.
• Encourage Scouts to reflect on the experience afterward.
• Help Scouts connect practice exercises to real emergencies.

Requirement 9: First Aid Merit Badge

What You Need To Do

Earn the First Aid merit badge. Complete all of the requirements and review your work with a qualified counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Start working on first aid skills early.
• Practice bandaging and emergency care often.
• Review CPR and rescue breathing requirements.
• Carry a small first aid kit during outings.
• Practice treating common injuries such as cuts and burns.
• Learn how to respond during emergencies calmly.
• Attend troop first aid demonstrations and campouts.
• Study signs of shock, heat illness, and hypothermia.
• Practice emergency response scenarios with other Scouts.
• Keep notes on completed requirements and skills.

Resources

• Helps and Answers for the First Aid Merit Badge

Leader Tips

• Provide regular hands-on first aid practice.
• Use realistic scenarios during troop meetings.
• Encourage Scouts to review skills throughout the year.
• Connect first aid skills to outdoor and emergency situations.

Requirement 10a: Disaster Management Careers Interview

What You Need To Do

Interview an emergency services coordinator or another civil servant involved in disaster management. Discuss their duties, training, and career path. Share what you learned with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Contact local fire departments or emergency agencies.
• Prepare questions before the interview.
• Ask about daily duties and responsibilities.
• Ask how they trained for the job.
• Find out what skills are most important.
• Ask about stressful parts of the work.
• Take notes during the interview.
• Ask what advice they would give young people.
• Review how emergency workers help communities.
• Discuss whether the career sounds interesting to you.

Resources

• NYC Emergency Management Interns (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts find local emergency workers to interview.
• Encourage respectful and organized questions.
• Remind Scouts to take notes during interviews.
• Discuss different career paths in emergency management.

Requirement 10b: Emergency Services Careers

What You Need To Do

Identify three careers related to emergency services. Research one career in detail, including training, education, costs, job opportunities, salary, and advancement. Review your findings with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Pick careers that match your interests.
• Use trusted sources for career information.
• Research required certifications and licenses.
• Find out how long training takes.
• Check local colleges or training programs.
• Review physical fitness requirements if needed.
• Compare different career options.
• Research starting salaries and job demand.
• Look at promotion opportunities in the field.
• Discuss whether the career fits your goals.

Careers to consider include:

• Firefighter
• Police officer
• Paramedic
• Emergency medical technician
• Emergency management specialist
• Search and rescue worker
• Disaster response coordinator
• Public health emergency planner
• Coast Guard member
• Wildland firefighter
• 911 dispatcher
• Hospital emergency manager
• Safety officer
• Hazardous materials technician
• Lifeguard supervisor

Resources

• Explore a Career in Disaster and Emergency Management (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to research local career opportunities.
• Review reliable career resources with Scouts.
• Help Scouts compare training and education paths.
• Discuss how Scouting skills connect to emergency careers.

Requirement 10c: Hobbies and Healthy Lifestyles

What You Need To Do

Identify how emergency preparedness skills could support a hobby or healthy lifestyle. Research training, costs, and organizations connected to the activity. Discuss your goals with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Pick hobbies that involve outdoor or safety skills.
• Research training courses for your activity.
• Check equipment costs before starting.
• Find clubs or organizations in your area.
• Review safety rules for the activity.
• Practice emergency skills during activities.
• Set short-term and long-term goals.
• Keep fitness and health in mind during planning.
• Learn how first aid skills fit into the hobby.
• Track progress as you gain experience.

Hobbies and activities to consider include:

• Hiking
• Camping
• Backpacking
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Rock climbing
• Cycling
• Swimming
• Running
• Skiing
• Scuba diving
• Amateur radio
• Community emergency response teams
• Wilderness survival activities
• Search and rescue volunteering

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to connect hobbies with safety skills.
• Help Scouts find local clubs or organizations.
• Discuss realistic goals and training plans.
• Review how emergency preparedness supports outdoor activities.

Hospital Tag

Hospital Tag is a fun and active game that helps Scouts practice skills for the Emergency Preparedness merit badge. During the game, players run and tag each other, but when tagged, they pretend to have an “injury” like a broken arm or leg. Other players must help “treat” the injury before the game can continue. This activity combines teamwork, problem-solving, and emergency readiness in an exciting way.

This game works well as an interpatrol activity during a troop meeting focused on emergency preparedness. Scouts learn how to stay calm and work together while handling pretend emergencies. It’s a creative way to reinforce the importance of staying ready and using skills from the Emergency Preparedness merit badge in a fun setting.

More Merit Badge Resources

The Emergency Preparedness merit badge fits into the merit badge program by teaching skills that apply to many parts of life. Scouts learn how to plan, stay calm, and respond when things go wrong. With so many merit badges available, this one stands out because it blends safety, problem-solving, and service. It supports badges that involve outdoor skills, health, and community work.

It also helps Scouts see how the merit badge system encourages learning in many areas. They work with counselors, study real situations, and practice clear steps for handling emergencies. These experiences build confidence and help Scouts choose future badges with a stronger sense of purpose. Emergency Preparedness becomes a steady foundation for skills used in many other subjects.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Emergency Preparedness merit badge fits into the larger Scouts BSA program by strengthening leadership. Scouts learn to guide others, share plans, and make safe choices. They practice teamwork during drills and exercises. These moments help them become dependable members of their patrols and communities.

The badge also connects to fitness, citizenship, and personal development. Scouts learn to stay ready, think ahead, and help others in need. They understand how emergencies affect families, neighborhoods, and public services. This builds responsibility and awareness. Emergency Preparedness supports the program’s goal of helping Scouts grow into capable, caring leaders.

What is the Emergency Preparedness merit badge?

The Emergency Preparedness merit badge teaches Scouts how to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies. Scouts learn important skills that can help them protect themselves and others in dangerous situations.

Why is the Emergency Preparedness merit badge important?

The Emergency Preparedness merit badge is important because it helps Scouts be ready for unexpected situations. Knowing what to do in an emergency can save lives and help Scouts remain calm and effective under pressure.

What are some key skills learned in the Emergency Preparedness merit badge?

Scouts learn to create emergency plans, perform basic first aid, recognize potential hazards, and understand the roles of responders. These skills help Scouts react wisely in emergencies.

Is the Emergency Preparedness merit badge required for Eagle Scout?

Yes, the Emergency Preparedness merit badge is one of the options required for the rank of Eagle Scout. Scouts can choose between this badge and the Lifesaving merit badge.

How can I start working on the Emergency Preparedness merit badge?

Begin by reading the Emergency Preparedness merit badge pamphlet and discussing with your merit badge counselor the requirements and your plans to fulfill them. Make sure to complete each task as described and keep track of your progress.

What should I do if I find an emergency situation during the Emergency Preparedness merit badge activities?

Always prioritize safety. If you encounter a real emergency while working on the Emergency Preparedness merit badge, follow your emergency plan, contact adults or authorities, and use the skills you’ve learned to stay safe.

The Emergency Preparedness merit badge is a crucial part of the Boy Scouts of America program. It educates Scouts on how to effectively handle emergency situations. The merit badge covers a range of topics from first aid to disaster planning and recovery. Scouts start by learning the fundamental principle of being prepared, which sets the stage for more detailed training.

One key requirement is earning the First Aid merit badge, which provides the necessary skills to help others in immediate need. Scouts also engage in discussions with their counselors about prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery. These discussions help Scouts understand the steps needed to manage emergencies effectively.

Scouts then apply what they’ve learned by creating plans and kits for specific emergency scenarios, such as house fires, natural disasters, and accidents. This practical application reinforces their knowledge and readiness. Finally, Scouts demonstrate their skills through role-playing and real-life scenarios, ensuring they can act confidently and intelligently during an emergency.

The Emergency Preparedness merit badge not only equips Scouts with vital survival skills but also instills a calm and prepared mindset for unexpected situations. It’s an essential badge that underscores the Scout motto: “Be Prepared.”