Lifesaving Merit Badge – Worksheet & Requirements

Overview

The Lifesaving Merit Badge is one of the many scout merit badges available to boy scouts. It focuses on lifesaving techniques, safety in emergency situations, and personal preparedness. To earn this merit badge, scouts must demonstrate proficiency in a variety of skills, including rescue methods, first aid, communication, CPR, and water safety. Scouts will be responsible for completing a worksheet and meeting a set of requirements, as outlined below.

Worksheet

The Lifesaving Merit Badge worksheet is designed to help scouts properly track their progress and organize their notes while working on the badge. Scouts will need to document their activities related to the Lifesaving Merit Badge, including:

• Rescue techniques, first aid, CPR, water safety, communications, etc.
• Demonstrations of skills and knowledge about safety and water safety
• Any special classes or instructions received
• Swimming distances and skills
• Volunteer service related to lifesaving

Requirements

In addition to completing the worksheet, scouts must meet a set of requirements to earn the Lifesaving Merit Badge. These requirements include:

• Describe the steps to take to prevent accidents.
• Explain the types of protection that should be used for different types of aquatic activities.
• Discuss the principles of good rescue technique.
• Perform a realistic drowning rescue in water over your head.
• Explain the cardiac chain of survival.
• Show how to put on a personal floatation device.
• Demonstrate the judicious use of a rescue tube and a throwing line.
• Perform a timed swim for 200 yards.
• Describe the care of a patient who has been submerged in cold water.
• Demonstrate the use of a rescue breathing barrier device.
• Discuss the principles of CPR and demonstrate the procedures on a training manikin.
• Describe the symptoms and treatment of shock.
• Identify and discuss safety rules and practices for specific aquatic activities.
• Do two hours of service related to lifesaving activities.

Conclusion

The Lifesaving Merit Badge is a great opportunity for scouts to learn important lifesaving skills and demonstrate their knowledge and competency in safety and water safety. By completing the worksheet and meeting the requirements, scouts can earn the badge and gain the important knowledge and skills needed to help save a life.