Keeping our Kids Safe: Duties of Adult Volunteers
The primary responsibility of adults in the Scout Movement is the welfare and development of young people consistent with the Fundamental Principles of Scouting. Young people must be and feel safe at all times. Adults are expected to be positive role models of Scouting values. This page briefly summarizes the behaviour that is expected of all adults present at Scouting activities. If you have any questions, please speak to a Scouter (adult leader) or the Group Committee Chair (phone number below). For more information about Scouts Canada's expectations, see their Bylaw, Policies, and Procedures, Section 7000.
Discipline in Scouting is aimed at helping children to understand how their behaviour affects others and themselves. A particular child who is misbehaving is often dealt with by a timeout and/or talking with them. The following are not acceptable:

•	Corporal punishment, such as physical blows, running laps, or push-ups
•	Confinement
•	Withholding food
•	Humiliation or name-calling
•	Any other form of abuse

Be careful with physical contact. Respect everyone's personal space. An arm around the shoulder is an acceptable way to provide comfort if the child is OK with it. Be especially careful during games. Watch for and avoid overly physical attention-seeking behaviour by youth members.
Do not be alone with one youth member (one-on-one). If speaking privately with a child, be nearby and visible. Leave the door open. Use two-deep leadership: at least two adults at all events.
Respect everyone's privacy. Do not be present when youth members are changing. At a public pool, change away from the youth members. Skinny dipping is not permitted. Adults should not share tents with youth.
Foul language is not used in Scouting.
Alcohol or illegal drugs may not be possessed or used during or before Scouting activities.
Smoking may not be done in the presence of youth members.
Know own abilities and limits. To keep the children safe, you must be well within your comfort zone.
Be alert for dangerous situations and deal with them before harm occurs.
Child Abuse
Child abuse occurs when a child is being harmed or is not being properly cared for. Child abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, or neglect. If you suspect that a child may be being abused, whether on a Scouting activity or elsewhere, you have a legal duty to report your suspicion to a Child Protection Authority. In case of abuse, inform all of:
•	<name of local Child Protection Authority> at <000-000-0000>
•	A Scouter in the child's Scouting section (Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Venturers)
•	<name of group> Group Committee Chair, <name> at <000-000-0000>
If the case involves an adult member of <name of group>, also inform the Scouts Canada Council Executive Director at the Scouts Canada <city> office at <000-000-0000>.
Reporting to Scouting officials does not fulfil your legal obligation to report.
If a child comes to you wanting to talk about abuse they may be suffering, listen carefully to what they say. Make no promises about secrecy since you can't legally keep them.