This information is for the Cub Scout program before the June 1, 2024 updates. After June 2024, all Cub Scouts should use the updated program requirements. See here.
Aquanaut is one of the Webelos/Arrow of Light elective adventures. For the Aquanaut adventure, Webelos learn about safety in the water while swimming and boating and practice their aquatics skills.
Requirements for the Webelos Aquanaut Adventure
Complete requirements 1–4 and at least two others.
- State the safety precautions you need to take before doing any water activity.
- Discuss the importance of learning the skills you need to know before going boating.
- Explain the meaning of “order of rescue” and demonstrate the reach and throw rescue techniques from land.
- Attempt the BSA swimmer test.
- Demonstrate the precautions you must take before attempting to dive headfirst into the water, and attempt a front surface dive.
- Learn and demonstrate two of the following strokes: crawl, sidestroke, breaststroke, or elementary backstroke.
- Invite a current or former lifeguard, or member of a rescue squad, the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, or other armed forces branch who has had swimming and rescue training to your den meeting. Find out what training and other experiences this person has had.
- Demonstrate how to correctly fasten a life jacket that is the right size for you. Jump into water over your head. Swim 25 feet wearing the life jacket. Get out of the water, remove the life jacket, and hang it where it will dry.
- If you are a qualified swimmer, select a paddle of the proper size, and paddle a canoe with an adult’s supervision
Resources for Webelos Den Leaders and Parents
Safe Swim Defense
Safe Swim Defense provides the steps which a BSA unit must take to safely participate in an activity which involves swimming.
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
Water rescue methods are methods used to rescue someone who is in trouble in the water.
Safety Afloat
Before embarking on a boating activity with your scouts, make sure everyone is aware of the Safety Afloat guidelines.
Sharks and Minnows
Here is a game to go with this adventure.
SCOUT Water Safety Chant
This helps Scouts learn the rules for safe aquatics activities.
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