The Rowing Merit Badge is a great way to learn about the fun sport of rowing and how to stay safe on the water. Rowing isn’t just a fantastic workout—it also teaches you important skills like teamwork, balance, and focus. This badge will help you understand the basics of rowing, such as how to use a boat and paddle, and why safety is so important when you’re on the water.
As you work on this badge, you’ll learn about different types of boats and how to row properly. You’ll also discover how to protect yourself from things like sunburn or dehydration and what to do if there’s an emergency. Plus, you’ll learn about the different tools rowers use, like life jackets and oarlocks, and why they’re so important.
This badge is perfect for scouts who want to try something new, get active, and have fun. Whether you’re just starting out or already know a little about rowing, the Rowing Merit Badge will teach you important safety tips, how to take care of your equipment, and the many benefits of rowing for your health. It’s a cool way to enjoy the outdoors and learn valuable skills that will last a lifetime!
Rowing Merit Badge Requirements
| 1. Do the following: (a) Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in rowing activities, including weather- and water-related hazards, and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards. (b) Review prevention, symptoms, and first-aid treatment for the following injuries or illnesses that can occur while rowing: blisters, hypothermia, heat-related illnesses, dehydration, sunburn, sprains, and strains. (c) Review the Scouting America Safety Afloat policy. Explain to your counselor how this applies to rowing activities. |
| 2. Before completing requirements 4, 5, 6, and 7, successfully complete the Scouting America swimmer test. |
| 3. Review the characteristics of life jackets most appropriate for rowing and why one must always be worn while rowing. Then demonstrate how to select and fit a life jacket. |
| 4. Do ONE of the following: (a) Alone or with a passenger, do the following in either a fixed-seat or sliding-seat rowboat: (1) Launch. (2) Row in a straight line for 100 yards. Stop, pivot, and return to the starting point. (3) Backwater in a straight line for 25 yards. Make a turn underway and return to the starting point. (4) Land and moor or rack your craft. (5) Tie the following mooring knots—clove hitch, roundturn with two half-hitches, bowline, Wellman’s knot, and mooring hitch. (b) Participate as a rowing team member in a competitive rowing meet. The team may be sponsored by a school, club, or Scout unit. The meet must include competition between two or more teams with different sponsors. Complete at least 10 hours of team practice prior to the meet. |
| 5. Do ONE of the following: (a) In a fixed-seat rowboat, come alongside a pier and help a passenger into the boat. Pull away from the pier, change positions with your passenger, and demonstrate sculling over the stern or side. Resume your rowing position, return alongside the pier, and help your passenger out of the boat. (b) In a sliding-seat rowboat, come alongside a pier and, with your buddy assisting you, get out onto the pier. Help your buddy into the boat. Reverse roles with your buddy and repeat the procedure. |
| 6. Participate in a swamped boat drill including righting and stabilizing the craft, reboarding in deep water, and making headway. Tell why you should stay with a swamped boat. |
| 7. Alone in a rowboat, push off from the shore or a pier. Row 20 yards to a swimmer. While giving instructions to the swimmer, pivot the boat so that the swimmer can hold on to the stern. Tow the swimmer to shore. |
| 8. Describe the following: (a) Types of craft used in commercial, competitive, and recreational rowing. (b) Four common boatbuilding materials. Give some positive and negative points of each. (c) Types of oarlocks used in competitive and recreational rowing. |
| 9. Discuss the following: (a) The advantage of feathering oars while rowing (b) Precautions regarding strong winds and heavy waves, and boat-handling procedures in rough water and windstorms (c) How to properly fit out and maintain a boat in season, and how to prepare and store a boat for winter (d) How to determine the proper length of oars (e) The differences between fixed-seat and sliding-seat rowing (f) The different meanings of the term sculling in fixed- and sliding-seat rowing (g) The health benefits from rowing for exercise |
Hazards in Rowing Activities
When you’re out on the water rowing, there are a few common hazards you might face. It’s important to understand them so you can stay safe and be ready to respond if something goes wrong. In this section, we’ll look at the most common hazards you could encounter, as well as how to prevent them and respond in case of an emergency.
1. Weather-Related Hazards
Weather can change quickly, and when you’re on the water, it’s especially important to know what to expect. Windy days or thunderstorms can create tricky situations, making it harder to row or even dangerous to be out there. Here’s what to watch out for:
Strong Winds
When the wind is strong, it can push your boat off course, making rowing much harder. If the wind is really strong, it might even tip your boat over. Always check the weather before you head out to row. If you know it’s going to be windy, it’s better to stay on land and wait for calmer weather.
Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms are one of the most dangerous weather conditions when rowing. They bring lightning, strong winds, and heavy rain, which can make it very difficult to see or control your boat. If you hear thunder or see dark clouds forming, get off the water right away. Find a safe place to wait until the storm passes. Always be safe and don’t risk it—your safety is the most important thing.
2. Water-Related Hazards
Being out on the water can be amazing, but there are a few things to keep in mind to stay safe. Strong currents or cold water can make rowing more challenging, especially if you’re not prepared.
Strong Currents
Some rivers or lakes have strong currents that can push your boat off course and make it harder to control where you’re going. Before you head out, it’s important to learn about the water conditions in the area. If you’re new to rowing, try to stick to calm waters. Avoid areas with strong currents unless you’re with someone experienced who knows how to handle them.
Cold Water
Rowing in cold water can be risky. If you fall in, your body can lose heat quickly, which might lead to hypothermia. To stay safe, always wear a life jacket, even if you’re a good swimmer. If the water is cold, wear warm clothes to help keep your body temperature up. Keep an eye on the temperature and be mindful of how quickly it can affect your body.
3. Prevention and Mitigation of Hazards
Now that we know about the potential hazards, let’s talk about how to prevent them and stay safe while rowing. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping you safe on the water!
One of the easiest ways to stay safe is to wear a life jacket. Life jackets help you stay afloat if something goes wrong. They’re super important, no matter how experienced you are with swimming or rowing. Before you get in the boat, make sure your life jacket fits properly. It should be snug but comfortable, and don’t forget to wear it every time you’re on the water!
Another important safety tip is to know how to swim. While life jackets are great, being able to swim is a lifesaver if you end up in the water. It’ll give you confidence and help you get to safety quickly. Make sure to complete the swimmer test in Scouting so you’re comfortable in the water. That way, if something happens, you’ll stay calm and be ready to handle it.
Finally, before you start rowing, always check your boat and equipment. Make sure everything is in good condition, like the oars, life jacket, and the boat itself. Broken equipment can lead to accidents, so it’s best to double-check before you go out. Do a quick inspection to make sure everything is safe and ready to go. This small step can help prevent problems later on.
4. Responding to Emergencies
Sometimes, even with all the preparation and safety checks, things can still go wrong while you’re out on the water. It’s important to know how to handle emergencies if they happen so you can stay safe and keep calm.
The first thing to remember is to stay calm. If something unexpected happens, like your boat flipping over, it’s easy to panic, but panicking will only make things worse. When you’re calm, you can think clearly about what to do next. Take deep breaths, and focus on staying safe. The more calm and focused you are, the better you’ll be able to respond to the situation.
Next, stay with the boat. If your boat tips over or gets swamped, it can be tempting to try swimming away, but it’s always safer to stay with the boat. The boat can help keep you afloat, and it’s easier for rescuers to spot you if you’re close to it. So, if your boat flips, hold onto it and stay close. It’s much safer than swimming away, and it gives you something to grab onto while you wait for help.
Prevention, Symptoms, and First-Aid for Rowing Injuries and Illnesses
When you’re out on the water rowing, it’s important to stay aware of your body and the conditions around you. Some injuries or illnesses can happen while rowing, but knowing how to prevent and treat them will help keep you safe and healthy. Let’s take a look at some common problems rowers face and how to handle them.
1. Blisters
Prevention:
Blisters happen when friction causes your skin to rub against something, like the oar handle. To prevent blisters, wear gloves designed for rowing or make sure the oar handle is comfortable and smooth.
Symptoms:
A blister looks like a small bubble on the skin filled with clear liquid. It can be painful when touched.
First-Aid Treatment:
If you get a blister, avoid popping it, as this can cause infection. Clean the area with soap and water, then cover it with a bandage or blister pad. If the blister pops, clean it, apply antiseptic, and cover it with a bandage to prevent infection.
2. Hypothermia
Prevention:
Hypothermia happens when your body loses heat too quickly, especially in cold water. Always wear a life jacket, dress warmly if the weather is chilly, and avoid rowing in freezing conditions.
Symptoms:
Shivering, confusion, tiredness, and feeling very cold are signs of hypothermia. In severe cases, a person might stop shivering, become drowsy, and have trouble speaking.
First-Aid Treatment:
If someone shows symptoms of hypothermia, get them out of the cold water and into a warm area. Remove wet clothes and cover them with blankets or warm clothing. Offer warm drinks, but avoid hot food or drinks. Call for help right away if they don’t improve.
3. Heat-Related Illnesses
Prevention:
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can happen on hot days, especially if you’re rowing for a long time. Drink plenty of water, wear a hat and sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade.
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:
Heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and feeling weak or tired.
First-Aid Treatment for Heat Exhaustion:
Get to a cooler place, drink water slowly, and rest. Use cool towels or water to help lower the temperature. If symptoms don’t improve, seek medical help.
Symptoms of Heatstroke:
A high body temperature (above 104°F), confusion, hot and dry skin (no sweating), and fainting.
First-Aid Treatment for Heatstroke:
Heatstroke is very serious! Call for emergency help immediately. While waiting for help, try to cool the person down by applying cool water or using ice packs, especially around the neck and armpits.
4. Dehydration
Prevention:
Dehydration happens when you don’t drink enough fluids. Always bring a water bottle when you go rowing and drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Symptoms:
Thirst, dry mouth, fatigue, headache, and dizziness.
First-Aid Treatment:
Drink water slowly. Avoid sugary drinks like soda, as they can make dehydration worse. If the person is severely dehydrated (confused, dizzy, or faint), seek medical help right away.
5. Sunburn
Prevention:
Rowing in the sun can lead to painful sunburns. Use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear a hat, and cover your skin with protective clothing or a rash guard.
Symptoms:
Red, painful, and sometimes swollen skin. Blisters may appear in severe sunburns.
First-Aid Treatment:
Apply cool, damp cloths to the sunburned area. Aloe vera gel or moisturizing lotion can also help soothe the skin. Drink plenty of fluids, and avoid more sun exposure. If the sunburn is very severe or if blisters develop, seek medical attention.
6. Sprains
Prevention:
Sprains happen when you stretch or tear ligaments, usually from a sudden twist or movement. Warm up before rowing, and be mindful of your movements to avoid overstretching or twisting.
Symptoms:
Pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the joint, like the wrist, ankle, or knee.
First-Aid Treatment:
Use the R.I.C.E. method:
- Rest the injured area.
- Ice the area to reduce swelling.
- Compress the area with a bandage.
- Elevate the injured limb above the heart to reduce swelling.
7. Strains
Prevention:
Strains occur when you pull or tear muscles, often from overuse or sudden movement. Stretch before rowing and avoid overexerting yourself.
Symptoms:
Pain or tenderness in the muscle, muscle weakness, and difficulty moving the affected area.
First-Aid Treatment:
Like with sprains, use the R.I.C.E. method for strains. Apply ice to reduce swelling, and rest the muscle until it heals. If the pain is severe, seek medical advice.
The Scouting America Safety Afloat
The Scouting America Safety Afloat policy is designed to keep everyone safe during aquatic activities, including rowing. It’s important to follow these rules whenever you’re out on the water, even if you’re just having fun with friends or practicing for a competition. The policy is all about making sure the environment is safe for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rower. Let’s break down how this policy applies to rowing activities:
1. Qualified Supervision
One of the first things the policy emphasizes is that there must be qualified supervision by an adult leader who is at least 21 years old and trained in Scouting America Safety Afloat. This means there should always be at least one trained adult for every 10 participants, and for younger groups like Cub Scouts, the ratio is 1 adult for every 5 kids. Additionally, at least one adult leader must be trained in first aid and CPR. This ensures that if anything goes wrong while rowing, someone is there to respond quickly and correctly.
2. Personal Health Review
Before starting any rowing activity, all participants need to complete a health history form. This helps check for any medical conditions or restrictions, making sure everyone is fit and able to join the activity safely.
3. Swimming Ability
Rowing on the water is exciting, but knowing how to swim is essential for safety. According to the Safety Afloat policy, everyone involved in water activities must pass a swim test each year. This helps ensure that everyone can handle themselves in the water if they fall in or face an emergency. It’s a simple, but important, way to stay safe while having fun on the water.
4. Life Jackets
The policy also makes it clear that life jackets are a must for everyone during any water activity, including rowing. Even if you’re an excellent swimmer, a life jacket helps you stay afloat and safe, especially if you’re out on open water where things can change quickly. You must wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times when participating in rowing activities.
5. Buddy System
Another important part of the Safety Afloat policy is the buddy system. This means that every participant should have a buddy, and no one should be alone in the water. This helps make sure that if someone gets into trouble, their buddy can help or quickly get help. In rowing, it’s also a good idea to pair up with a buddy in case anything goes wrong on the water. It’s all about looking out for each other!
6. Skill Proficiency
The Safety Afloat policy requires that everyone participating in rowing activities has the right skills and knowledge. This means that before you get in a boat, you need to know how to row properly, how to handle the boat, and how to react if something goes wrong. Whether you’re rowing on calm waters or practicing on a river with a current, make sure you have the basic skills to stay safe and enjoy the activity.
7. Planning
Before you get out on the water, always check the weather and plan accordingly. The Safety Afloat policy stresses the importance of being prepared and understanding what could happen if the weather changes. If it’s going to be too windy, rainy, or if thunderstorms are in the forecast, it’s better to stay on land. Planning ahead and checking weather reports helps prevent accidents.
8. Equipment
The policy also makes sure that all equipment used for the activity, including boats, paddles, and life jackets, are in good condition. The boats must be seaworthy, meaning they should be able to stay afloat and be safe if they capsize. Always check your equipment before heading out, and make sure everything is in working order.
9. Discipline
The rules and guidelines are only effective when everyone follows them. The Safety Afloat policy reminds us that rules about safety, life jackets, and equipment aren’t just there to be followed in the beginning but must be maintained throughout the entire activity. It’s important to remember that following these rules is what keeps everyone safe.
