Troop 4's Scouts and adults live by the finest code of conduct ever devised: the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Scout Motto, the Scout Slogan, and the Outdoor Code. Understanding and agreeing to live by them is one of a new Scout's first duties, and we recite the Oath, the twelve points of the Law, and the Outdoor Code at the opening of every meeting.
The rules below apply equally to Scouts, adults, and everyone else involved in troop activities.
- Horseplay, hazing, inappropriate language, or anything potentially harmful to the well-being of a member or their family is never tolerated.
- Any adult or Scout may intervene immediately whenever an unsafe situation exists.
- Alcohol, marijuana, and drugs are not permitted at any function involving Scouts. Scouts never smoke or use tobacco. Adults do not smoke inside any building hosting a troop activity or outdoors in the presence of Scouts, and strictly observe fire safety.
- Scouting America policies on Youth Protection, two-deep adult leadership, permits, leader qualifications, physical exams, and consent-to-treat forms are strictly observed. Two-deep means at least two qualified adults are present at every troop or patrol activity.
- Medications for an outing are handed to the Scoutmaster or a designee in the original container with signed, written instructions before departure.
- New Scouts earn a Totin' Chip before carrying a knife or axe, and carry the card whenever they do. Straight-blade and switchblade knives are not permitted. A safety violation clips a corner of the card; two clipped corners and the privilege must be re-earned.
- Annual dues cover day hikes and weekend backpacking except campground and event fees. Other outings are pay as you go, mainly food, which patrols buy and share. Prepaid activities are generally non-refundable because the troop makes non-refundable reservations; with notice, a spot can sometimes be transferred to a wait-listed Scout.
- Everyone observes the Scout sign and gives courteous attention when someone addresses the troop or patrol.
- On outings, everyone follows trail and camp discipline, safety and health rules, and equipment requirements, protects the environment, and pitches in on chores without complaint. Scouts follow the Senior Patrol Leader and the adult trip leader, and everyone knows and follows the Outdoor Code.
- Cell phones and other electronics stay home during meetings and outings unless a leader says a specific activity needs them. Leaders carry phones and send updates, including arrival times, to the whole troop. The goal is for Scouts to be present with each other and the outdoors.
- The Scoutmaster and Committee Chair are available for a private conference about any aspect of the program. Scouts ordinarily take concerns to their Patrol Leader, their elected voice on the PLC, or to the Senior Patrol Leader when it is urgent.