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Prevention is the proactive process of anticipating and recognizing potential hazards or threats and taking action to stop unsafe behaviors before an incident occurs.
Prevention is the responsibility of everyone involved and is a core responsibility of all unit leaders, carried out through consistent and active supervision.
A foundational step in prevention is maintaining and reviewing a current Annual Health and Medical Record (AHMR) for every participant. Whether reviewed by a single leader or a small unit-level team, AHMRs provide critical planning guidance, emergency contact information, and required consent—especially for youth participants—in the event of illness or injury. It is essential that AHMRs are completed honestly and accurately, including health history, allergies, and medications, as incomplete or inaccurate information can delay proper care or lead to serious complications. In addition to the AHMR, the Cradle of Liberty Council recommends using the Drug Administration Record for youth. Many Health & Safety forms can be found via the Safety Forms – Cradle of Liberty Council link below.
Another key pre-event step is ensuring that adequate leaders are properly trained and currently certified in First Aid and CPR/AED; Wilderness First Aid training is strongly encouraged. First aid kits and medical supplies should be reviewed regularly to ensure they are complete and up to date.
Effective prevention also depends on thorough pre-event planning, including:
- Appropriate clothing, equipment, food, and supplies for the scheduled event
- Additional training for cold- or hot-weather activities
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Completion of Hazardous Weather Training (SCO_800 annual training is required)
- Adequate shelter plans for adverse conditions
- Food handling safety and awareness of dietary restrictions and allergies (as noted on AHMRs)
- Consideration of animals, insects, and location-specific hazards
Safe travel practices are equally important and include heightened accountability, particularly during rest stops. Use the SAFE Transportation Checklist (link below).
Once on site, ongoing safety is maintained through active supervision, continued engagement, and situational awareness to help prevent injuries and illnesses.
If you observe an unsafe or inappropriate action—stop it immediately and report it.
Helpful links:
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