Annual Swim Tests

We are entering that time of year when units begin planning for their annual swim test. While most camps require units to test on site, it is encouraged for units to test at home also, as some scouts don't go to Summer Camp. This will provide testing for most of the unit for an entire year.

In addition to swim testing comes the question who can administer the test? Many leaders confuse testing requirements with normal swimming requirements. You don't need an army of Aquatics Directors or lifeguards to conduct a test!!!!!

Aquatics Supervision Manual (Chapter 5)

Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat guidelines tailor activities to swimming ability. Therefore, the unit leader needs to provide opportunities for swim classification before aquatics outings. Swim tests conducted by council personnel during or just before summer camp give the unit one way to determine swimming ability. However, not all unit members attend camp, new members may join the unit at any time, and some units plan aquatics activities in lieu of summer camp. Therefore, the unit should be able to safely conduct its own swim tests.

Swim Classification Record

The swim classification test performed at a unit level should be conducted by one of the following council-approved resource people: Aquatics Instructor, BSA; BSA Lifeguard; BSA Swimming & Water Rescue; or other lifeguard, swimming instructor, etc. Test administrators should utilize chapter 5 of the BSA Aquatics Supervision Guide.

The "etc." has been understood to be defined in Aquatics Safety under Responsibilities of Supervisory Personnel:

Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat govern BSA swimming and boating activities. Both specify that the activities are supervised by a mature and conscientious adult age 21 or older who:

  • Understands and knowingly accepts responsibility for the well-being and safety of youth members in their care
  • Is experienced in the particular activity
  • Is confident in their ability to respond appropriately in an emergency
  • Is trained and committed to the nine points of BSA Safety Afloat and/or the eight points of Safe Swim Defense.

If a unit needs assistance for a swim test, resources can be made available.  NOTE: The unit will need to arrange for a swimming facility that has a 25-yard pool.