Aquatics Trainings

Below is a list of required training and certifications that are necessary for keeping your or the participants of your aquatics activities safe and having a good time! To help keep our Scouts and Scouters informed, below you’ll find brief descriptions for commonly needed trainings, and if those training are offered regularly nearby.

As a service to Scouts and Scouters in the Baltimore area, Broad Creek coordinates training for adult leaders and older youth in Aquatics Supervision and BSA Lifeguard. These trainings are required for certain unit-led, district and council event, and summer camp activities.

Aquatics Supervision

A basic training meant for adult leaders, Aquatics Supervision is a required course for taking your unit out to participate in swimming or boating activities without a guide.

Aquatics Supervision is offered for adults regularly as part of Broad Creek’s Scouts BSA Summer Camp, and in 2022, will be available as a standalone course.

Standalone course registration: https://scoutingevent.com/220-2022aquaticstraining

BSA Lifeguard

The primary purpose of this training program is no longer to provide units with the skills necessary to conduct safe swimming and boating activities. This revised BSA Lifeguard program is now focused on the need to provide professional lifeguards for BSA-operated facilities, council aquatics committees, and year-round aquatics programming with training that meets the requirements of government agencies at regulated swimming venues. The program is open to all registered adults and older youth (age 15 and older). BSA Lifeguard is recommended for aquatics staff lifeguard training and for those who wish to work as lifeguards for BSA year-round aquatics programs, or who are supporting council aquatics committees, as the next step beyond the Aquatics Supervision programs for unit leaders.

Paddlecraft Safety

BSA Paddle Craft Safety expands Safety Afloat training to include the skills and knowledge needed for a unit leader to confidently supervise canoeing or kayaking excursions on flat water.

Safety Afloat and Safe Swim Defense

The Safety Afloat and Safe Swim Defense trainings are available in the BSA Learn Center, accessed via My.Scouting. Log in to My.Scouting, and after logging in, click the “BSA Learn Center” image. Click Expanded Learning, then Program Safety, then Program Safety, and find the courses listed on the Program Safety page.