Erie Canal District

01/23/2026

Cold weather can be dangerous if you spend time outside working, playing, or sleeping, especially when wet or in tight clothing. Scouts should always tell an adult immediately if they notice any symptoms of cold-related injury during events, winter camps, or troop campouts. Acting fast can prevent serious harm.

🧊 Understanding Frostbite:

🔥 First-degree frostnip (superficial) - Limited skin damage, may be painful, no immediate blisters. Skin looks white in the center with pink edges and mild swelling. Get out of the cold, change wet clothes, warm the area with water or body heat.

🔥 Second-degree frostbite (superficial) - Affects top skin layers and slightly deeper tissue. Clear blisters with pink, moist tissue underneath, surrounded by redness and swelling. Do not rub; blisters protect tissue. Rewarm immediately and seek professional medical care.

🔥 Third- and fourth-degree frostbite (deep) - Can damage muscles, tendons, and bones. Skin feels frozen, hard, and may appear red, purple, or black. Untreated, thick black dead tissue may develop in 1–2 weeks. Rewarming causes intense pain; urgent medical attention required.

🧣 Prevention & Treatment Tips:

Layer clothing, socks, gloves, scarves, and hats; remove layers to prevent sweating. Keep base layers loose for blood flow and warmth. Change wet clothing immediately. Seek shelter and warm food if feeling cold. Any signs of second-degree or worse frostbite require immediate medical attention. Staying prepared, recognizing early symptoms, and acting quickly keeps everyone safe and enjoying the outdoors.

Learn more here:

https://www.scouting.org/health.../safety-moments/frostbite/

01/22/2026

01/22/2026

There are many scholarships available to Scouts. You can find a list of them here:

https://www.scouting.org/awards/scholarships/

01/22/2026

Announcing Spring Into Scouting: The Into the Woods Ball 🌿🌟

A magical night benefiting Scouting America’s Leatherstocking Council, with dancing, auctions, VIP speakers, and s’mores, supporting local youth programs and leadership development.

📅 March 20, 2026 | 6–10 PM
📍 DoubleTree by Hilton Utica

Register now!

https://donations.scouting.org/ #/council/400/event/760

01/22/2026

A Scouts BSA troop is youth-led, but adults still play an important role behind the scenes. The troop committee is made up of adults who help keep the program safe, organized, and running smoothly. They do not plan campouts or run meetings. That is the job of the Scouts, with guidance from the Scoutmaster. 😊

The committee supports the youth leaders by handling things like finances, equipment, and policies. They also help make sure the troop follows Scouting rules and has trained adults. When the committee does its job well, Scouts are free to lead, plan, and learn. It’s a quiet role, but it’s a very important one. 🌟

https://scoutermom.com/1993/scouts-bsa-troop-committee/

01/20/2026

Join us for an upcoming leader discussion:

Working Advancement into Troop Meetings

February 4, 2026
8:00 PM Eastern Time

Advancement is one of the eight methods of Scouting, and when used well, it helps keep Scouts engaged and progressing. We will share practical ideas on for incorporating advancement and recognition into troop meetings while still delivering an exciting, youth-focused program.

This session is ideal for unit leaders looking for fresh approaches that support Scout development and growth.

Register here:

https://scouting-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_YNPv2Dj2RpaynWJiFWUeaA #/registration

01/20/2026

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and in recognition of our partnership with America250, Scouting America will present all Eagle Scouts who earn the rank in 2026 with a special commemorative Eagle Scout certificate. This limited‑edition certificate will be available only to Scouts who achieve the Eagle rank during the 2026 calendar year.

The special certificate will be issued automatically beginning February 1, 2026. No special request is required; it will replace the standard Eagle certificate for all 2026 recipients.

Scouts who earned the Eagle rank in January 2026 may request a reprint through their local council.

01/20/2026

📣 Slip-Free Scouting: Winter Safety

❄️ Slip-Free Scouting: Winter Safety Tips

Winter is one of the most rewarding seasons in Scouting. Cold-weather hikes, campouts, and outdoor meetings help Scouts build skills, confidence, and resilience—but snow and ice require extra vigilance.

Using the SAFE Checklist, following the Guide to Safe Scouting, and modeling the Scouter Code of Conduct help ensure winter activities are both fun and safe.

🔹 Key winter safety reminders:
• Slow down on icy surfaces and identify hazards
• Conduct a Program Hazard Analysis (PHA) before activities
• Watch for black ice, compacted snow, and shaded frozen areas
• Ensure transportation follows Guide to Safe Scouting guidelines
• Monitor weather conditions before and during activities

Thoughtful planning now helps prevent slips, cold stress, and injuries—so every winter outing supports Scouting’s mission.

🔗 Learn more and explore safety resources:
👉 Scouting Safely – Safety Moments
https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/safety-moments/

01/19/2026

Plan for Adventure, Skill-building, and Exploration by using the Outdoor Program Features
Outdoor Activities are the core of the Scouting program and bring challenge, excitement, and core memories for adventurers of every level. Find your passion, try something new, and challenge yourself.
Take the guesswork out of planning for these outdoor activities by using the ready-to-go meeting plans and activity templates available on the Troop Leader Resources website. Check out topics like camping, hiking, geocaching, pioneering, wilderness survival and more!
Promote personal growth, encourage advancement, and keep your Scouts coming back for more fun by utilizing these FREE resources.
https://troopleader.scouting.org/program-features/outdoor-category/

01/17/2026

🐾 Cub Scout leaders and volunteers are invited to join on the Commissioners of Scouting America page, Friday, January 23, at 3 p.m. ET.

🎯 Each weekly episode provides tips, tricks, and ideas to help make den and pack activities more engaging and successful.

🔍 This episode will be about how to choose the right elective adventure for your den.

🎥 Recordings will be available on this page shortly after the live broadcast.

📲 Follow this page for regular updates, insights, and inspiration for the Scouting journey.