The Badge Archive

Why Emergency Preparedness Matters

From sudden evacuations during hurricanes to shelter-in-place orders after chemical spills, youth are affected just as much as adults—but they often don’t know what to expect. That uncertainty can cause confusion or fear when quick decisions are needed.

Scouts may face challenges like:

• Not knowing where to go if separated from family
• Lack of access to basic supplies like water or flashlights
• Fear during loud, fast-moving weather events
• Having responsibilities for younger siblings or pets during a crisis

Preparing ahead of time helps scouts stay calm, make safe choices, and support others. It’s not just surviving emergencies, but stepping into leadership roles when needed.

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Actions Elementary Scouts Can Take

• Learn what disasters are common in your area – Is it tornadoes? Wildfires? Earthquakes? Knowing helps you plan smart.
• Make a family contact list – Write down phone numbers and safe meeting spots. Decorate it if you want!
• Build a kid-friendly emergency kit – Flashlight, water bottle, snack, comfort item, and labeled ID card.
• Practice an evacuation or shelter drill with toys or story time – Turn preparedness into pretend play.
• Label your school backpack with emergency contacts – In case phones aren’t working.
• Create a grab-and-go checklist – Know what to take if your family has to leave quickly.

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Actions Teen Scouts Can Take

• Map out local hazards – Research which emergencies are realistic for your town.
• Check school emergency procedures – Know where shelters are and what signals mean.
• Teach younger scouts or siblings how to use emergency kits – You’re the mentor!
• Design a troop or classroom preparedness plan – Include meeting points and communication tools.
• Lead a badge program or game night on emergency readiness – Make it active and fun.
• Host a scenario challenge – What would you do in a flood? No power? Stranded overnight?

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Patch Program Highlight

Be Prepared, Not Scared
The Badge Archive has an online guide for the GSUSA Be Prepared, Not Scared patch program. This one helps scouts prepare for emergencies one step at a time. It starts with the most important: figuring out which disasters you should prepare for based on where you live. No need to worry about tsunamis in Iowa.

Each activity is designed to build confidence, not fear. Whether you complete it with your troop or at home solo, it’s a hands-on way to be Scout Strong through any storm.

Check it out here: The Badge Archive – Be Prepared, Not Scared

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Remember:

Preparedness is an act of kindness, to yourself and the people around you. Let scouts be the calm in the storm.

This Thinking Thursday, take one small step toward a safer tomorrow.

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

This is a supportive Facebook community for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout leaders. Whether you’re seeking advice, fresh ideas, or meeting plans, you’re in the right place! Let’s inspire each other, share our experiences, and make every troop meeting a memorable adventure.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!

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