GSEM Volunteer Essentials

• Some girls may need to carry and administer their own medications, such as bronchial inhalers, an EpiPen or diabetes medication. Parents/guardians must provide documentation that it is acceptable for the girl to self-administer the medications Parents/guardians who object to immunizations or medical examinations should contact the Senior Manager, Risk Management at council to determine what provisions can be made for their girl to attend Girl Scout activities in a way that accommodates their concerns. The amount of information required on a health history will depend upon the level of risk of the activity. For most troop activities, general statements about health such as allergies, food restrictions or other emergency care information will be required. For higher-risk activities such as horseback riding, rock climbing or Overnight Camp, a more detailed health history may be required. 1. At the beginning of each Girl Scout year, have parents/guardians complete a Girl Health History and Annual Permission form. Shred all health information from the prior year. 2. Volunteers should keep girls’ health histories nearby at all times, but should not allow girls or other parents to review them unless the parent/volunteer is an official capacity as a First Aider. All volunteers are expected to maintain confidentiality of a girl or adult health history at all times. Adult Activity Waiver (VP-84) To ensure the health and safety of adults participating in Girl Scout events, trainings, and programs, the Adult Activity Waiver, VP-84 is available. This form is used in all situations except for Overnight Camp when an adult volunteer or paid staff must submit a Overnight Camp Staff Health Form. Adults may choose to provide health information describing any treatment, restrictions or accommodations important to their participation in an activity by completing and signing the Adult Activity Waiver. This information is provided to the event leadership and/or First Aider or other health personnel. Food Allergies Common food allergies include dairy products, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts and seafood. This means that before serving any food (such as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, cookies or chips), ask whether anyone is allergic to peanuts, dairy products or wheat. Do this even if you are aware of which girls have specific allergies! Even Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies should be aware of their allergies but double-checking with them and their parents/guardians is always a good idea. Summary of Health History Use Girl Health History and Annual Permission Form (F-57) This form is required for girls to participate in Girl Scout meetings and activities.

To minimize the risks involved with food allergies, volunteers can take the following steps:

• Become familiar with food allergies, especially those that account for the majority of allergic reactions in children • Before serving any food, ask whether anyone has food allergies. Even very young girls should be aware of their allergies, but double-checking with their parents/guardians is a good idea

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