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Review the
Step 1 activity checkpoints before doing these activities.
(There are no Step 2 activity checkpoints for this activity.)
Planning and Supervision
£ When any specialized equipment or chemicals are used, an adult with experience and knowledge is present to demonstrate and teach use of the equipment.
£ An adult is responsible for the safe use and proper care of all equipment and materials.
£ Science activities taken from the Girl Scout handbooks and related resources should be done as out lined in the materials. The activity should be appropriate for each girl’s age, experience, and level of knowledge.
£ All outdoor science activities, such as field investigations, night hikes, astronomy lessons, cave explorations, or stream studies, are carried out with proper supervision.
Equipment and Materials
£ The work area is ample and appropriate for the science activity.
£ When working with any chemical, plant, or animal, the following are observed:
§ Hands do not touch the mouth or face during the activity.
§ Facilities for washing hands and eyes are available at the site.
§ Hands are washed thoroughly after the activity.
§ Equipment is thoroughly cleaned.
§ Used materials are disposed of properly.
§ Chemical substances are used or mixed only when the adult in charge specifically knows the outcome. When chemicals are used, goggles stamped ANSI Z87 on the frame and lens must be worn. Even the simplest experiment can be an eye hazard.
Plants
£ Accepted practice is not to pick any plant species unless there is a real need. Most observations can be carried out while the plant is in its natural surroundings.
£ If it is necessary to pick a plant, the adult in charge is familiar with the species and the possible allergic reactions or chemical sensitivity that may be experienced by handling the plant.
£ Girls wash their hands after handling seeds.
£ Seeds are not placed in the mouth, as they may be coated with insecticides, fungicides, or other chemicals.
Animals
£ Whenever animals or objects they use - such as food bowls, water dishes, toys—are handled, hands must be thoroughly washed with soap under running water.
£ Iguanas, turtles, and other reptiles, as well as pet ducklings and chicks, can harbor the salmonella bacteria, which can be passed on to humans. Contact with these animals should be avoided.
£ Activities with animals are carried out with sensitivity and concern for the needs of the animals.
£ Aquariums and terrariums are kept in areas where proper care, temperature regulation, and maintenance are always possible.
£ Girls are aware of the proper care, feeding, and maintenance of animals and take responsibility for meeting these needs.
Site
£ There are well-ventilated areas for the use of vaporous materials such as chemicals.
£ Flammable materials are kept in fireproof containers and in an area away from ignition sources.
£ Food or beverages are not consumed in an activity area. Hands are washed before eating.
Emergency Procedures and First Aid
See Step One – Universal Checkpoints.
National Organizations
Association for Women in Science (www.awis.org),
National Safety Council (www.nsc.org),
National Science Teachers Association (www.nsta.org).
These pages are for check-list purposes only. Please refer to
your Safety-Wise book to make sure the checklist information is current and
accurate.
These pages are not endorsed by Girl Scouts of the USA. 'Girl Scouts' and
'Girl Scouts of the USA' are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Girl
Scouts of the USA.