Damage at little Sioux Scout camp - John Gaps III, From the DesMoines Register
Four Scouts are dead, dozens injured and a Scout camp is destroyed in the aftermath of a tornado in Little Sioux Iowa. Hopefully the massive outpouring of support, prayers and compassion will console families and fellow Scouts in this horrible tragedy.
Early news coverage has pointed out the Scout's skill and heroism. Their valor and selflessness demonstrates that they were, indeed, prepared.
Tragic events should redouble our own resolve to be prepared. Scoutmasters are responsible to assess and mitigate risks wherever possible. We must assure that our Scouts are safe in challenging activities and environments without unduly compromising the experience.
In addition we should be prepared to respond to the unpredictable as best we can. High profile tragedies like the one at Little Sioux invite a critical examination of policy, procedure and reactions on the part of those responsible for the safety of the Scouts camped there. We can be overwhelmed by circumstances that no rational preparation can predict or avoid.
I know that I will reexamine my personal readiness and training and seek out any resource that will increase my preparedness.
To my fellow Scouts and Scouters who are in the midst of tragedy, who are struggling with the decisions they made or actions they took, who are suffering from unfathomable loss: may you experience peace and compassion in the knowledge that we all feel, in some small part, the difficulty you are facing.
Associated posts at Scoutmaster
Risk Management
Resources
Weather Hazards Training at the BSA Online Learning Center
Planning and Conducting a Safe Scout Outing
Well said Clarke.
http://mangsbatpage.433rd.com/2008/06/gone-home-too-soon.html
Posted by: D.Gamey | June 12, 2008 at 05:05 PM