GSEM Volunteer Essentials

always have on hand the telephone number of your council, parents/guardians, and emergency services such as the police, fire department or hospital.

When an accident occurs:

Remain calm

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• Do not approach if doing so places you at risk • Give priority attention to providing all possible care for injured persons. If there is any possibility of a head, neck or back injury, do not move the injured person unless they are in immediate danger • Contact emergency medical personnel and law enforcement officials as appropriate • If at a Girl Scout event or function, notify the volunteer or staff member in charge. Provide them with the injured person’s Health History or Adult Activity Waiver form • If medical treatment is required or the accident results in a fatality, first call 911, then report the incident to council by calling the 24-hour emergency contact number: 314.592.2300 or 1.800.727.4475. • Council staff will: • Arrange for additional assistance at the scene, if needed • Notify patient’s emergency contact person, as appropriate • Handle media inquiries. Council staff is trained to work with the media. Refer all inquiries to the Marketing and Communications department. • Complete a Standard Incident Report, available on the council website • Document the circumstances and include names and addresses of witnesses. Submit the completed report to the Senior Manager, Risk Management, or another council staff member with whom you are already in contact • Share information about the accident only with law enforcement officials, appropriate council staff, insurance representatives and legal counsel. Inform a Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri staff member of any interviews • Direct all media requests to the Marketing and Communications department. In the event of a fatality or other serious accident, the police must be notified, and a responsible volunteer must remain at the scene. In the case of a fatality, do not disturb the victim or surroundings and follow police instructions.

Within 24 hours of the accident:

When Someone Needs Emergency Care

Girl Scout members need to receive proper instruction in how to care for themselves and others in emergencies. They also need to learn the importance of reporting any accidents, illnesses, or unusual behaviors during Girl Scout activities to adult volunteers. You can help girls by keeping the following in mind:

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Know what to report.

Establish and practice procedures for weather emergencies.

• Know the type of extreme weather to expect in your area (tornadoes, hurricanes, and lightning). Consult with your council for the most relevant information for you to share with Girl Scout members.