Volunteer Essentials Volunteer Essentials 2015-16 - Updated 5/31/17 | Page 76

     taking watercraft trips in Class V or higher; zorbing; or flights in non-commercial aircraft, such as small, private planes, helicopters, sailplanes, untethered hot air balloons and blimps. When planning activities with girls, note the abilities of each girl and carefully consider the progression of skills from the easiest part to the most difficult. Make sure the complexity of the activity does not exceed girls’ individual skills—bear in mind that skill levels decline when people are tired, hungry, or under stress. Also use activities as opportunities for building teamwork, which is one of the outcomes for the Connect key in the GSLE. Refer to the Appendix: GSWPA Procedures/Forms for the following:  Certificates of Insurance Procedure  Hold Harmless Agreement Procedure Click the links for the following:  Trip & High-Risk Procedure  Trip and High-Risk Activity Application  Certificates of Insurance Request Form Health Histories (Including Examinations and Immunizations) Each council handles health histories differently. The staff at your council office may take care of obtaining and storing girls’ health histories—which may include a physician’s examination and a list of immunizations—as needed. Or, you may be asked to maintain these records for your group. Either way, keep in mind that information from a health examination is confidential and may be shared only with people who must know this information (such as the girl herself, her parent/guardian, and a health practitioner). Refer to the Appendix: GSWPA Procedures/Forms for the following:  Girl and Adult Health History Procedure   Click the links for the following: Girl Health History Form Adult Health History Form For various reasons, some parents/guardians may object to immunizations or medical examinations. Councils must attempt to make provisions for these girls to attend Girl Scout functions in a way that accommodates these concerns. It is important for you to also be aware of any medications a girl may take or allergies she may have. ● 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! Even Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies should be aware of their allergies, but double-checking with their parents/guardians is always a good idea.