1-on-1 Interaction
Ratios
Aquatics
Supervision
Safety
100

What is the general rule about one-on-one interactions between staff and members?

It is strictly prohibited

100

What is the standard maximum staff-to-youth ratio for instructional settings?

1 staff to 20 youth

100

What must all Club staff supervising aquatic activities complete beforesupervising?

The American Red Cross Water Safety Online Course

100

What is required of all Club program areas at all times during operation?

Continuous supervision by appropriate adult staff (18 or over)

100

Should doors be propped during Club operations?

No

200

In what situation is one-on-one contact allowed between a staff member and a youth?

Only when delivering licensed medical or counseling services with prior documentation.

200

During day trips for youth ages 6–7, what is the required staff-to-youth ratio?

1 staff to 10 youth

200

What must happen if a youth cannot pass the swim test?

They must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket

200

When is the use of personal cell phones allowed while supervising youth?

Only for Club purposes, as defined in the Acceptable Technology Use Policy

200

What is the required action if a staff member suspects child abuse or neglect?

Report to Club leadership ASAP and do not ask the youth follow up questions. 

300

What should a staff member do if an emergency requires one-on-one interaction?

Notify Club leadership immediately and use a video or phone call during the interaction.

300

What is the required supervision ratio during overnight trips?

1 staff to 5 kids and must have at least 1 male and 1 female

300

Who must be present at all aquatic activities to ensure supervision standards are upheld?

At least 1 full-time staff member

300

What must staff do if a supervision issue, accident, or critical incident occurs?

Immediately notify Club leadership and/or submit a written report

300

What types of physical contact are considered appropriate with youth?

Side hugs, handshakes, high-fives, fist bumps

400

What are two examples of private contact as defined by the policy?

Meeting behind closed doors or transporting one child alone in a vehicle.

400

In swimming activities, how many swimmers can one lifeguard supervise?

15 swimmers

400

Why must BGCNCG youth be kept separate from other swim groups during aquatic activities?

To ensure dedicated supervision and minimize safety risks

400

During public field trip restroom use, what specific ratio and procedure must be followed?

One staff escorts a minimum of three youth and waits outside the restroom entrance

400

What safety signage must be visible at all Club entrances?

BGCA-approved collateral (ethics hotline, crisis text line, and safety helpline info)

500

How can mentoring relationships comply with the no one-on-one rule?

By meeting in visible areas, copying another adult on communication, scheduling sessions during Club hours, and documenting interactions.

500

What is the required spotter-to-swimmer ratio in aquatic settings, and how does this differ from lifeguard supervision?

1 spotter for every 10 swimmers; spotters assist lifeguards but are not certified as lifeguards themselves

500

What are two ineligible locations for BGCNCG aquatic activities and why are they prohibited?

Lakes and water parks — due to unpredictable conditions and inability to meet safety protocols

500

What must happen to any areas of the facility that are not in use during operating hours?

They must remain locked and only accessible by adult staff

500

What are the 5 key elements that plays a role in Club safety?

Positive environment, Supportive relationships, opportunities & expectations. recognition, and FUN!