Dear Scouts and Families,
After discussing with Pastor Kevin and Mr Benyi, and in light of the recent COVID-19 virus (Corona Virus) related global and community restrictions, we have decided to cancel this week’s Troop meeting (3/17/20). As always, the safety of all our Scouts, volunteers and families is our top priority. The State and National Council are monitoring and advising local Scouting programs through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although there has been no instruction from the Councils to suspend or cancel Troop meetings, we feel the recent suspension of Scottsdale School District classes and declaration of a National State of Emergency warrants us to consider discontinuing non-essential large indoor group meetings. Since these events will continue to rapidly evolve on a daily basis, we will reassess the local situation, and make a decision about future meetings on a week to week basis. Thank you for understanding, and for your patience while we continue to monitor the progression of the COVID-19 pandemic. As is our practice in Scouting, our efforts are focused on preparation and responsiveness guided by official health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization. Remaining vigilant in hand hygiene and social distancing are some of the most important practices, especially in communities where there is confirmed community spread of the virus. Below is the BSA policies to help prevent the spread of illness:
BSA Polices to Prevent the Spread of Illness
The Boy Scouts of America continues to have policies and procedures in place that help protect participants from contracting an illness at large Scouting events. These include the Annual Health and Medical Record and the Pre-Event Medical Screening Checklist.
Everyday Preventive Measures
Even with those important policies in place, it is critical that we all take these everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases:
- Stay home when you feel sick.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and wash your hands before and after doing so.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve/elbow, not your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Do not share personal items such as cups, water bottles, eating utensils, etc.
- Avoid shaking hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
If you have a fever, cough, or other symptoms associated with COVID-19, or if you believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19, you should isolate and not attend any Scouting events. People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Please don’t hesitate to contact any of our Leadership if you have any questions.
Mr Blair
Scoutmaster Troop 648