Emergency Contacts & Procedures

These procedures apply to all leaders and volunteers with responsibility for girls and participants at official Girl Scout activities. It is very important that these steps are followed consistently in any emergency situation. 

NOTE: The following procedures are provided to Girl Scout volunteers on postcard-size cards. Remember to keep your card with you, readily available for quick reference in case of emergency.

1. Always have someone in the group as the designee to call 911.
   
   
2. Remain calm.
   
   
3. Give priority attention to providing all possible care for the injured.
   
   
4. Secure emergency medical services and law enforcement as appropriate.
   
   
5. Report the emergency immediately by calling the leadership center (210-349-2404 or toll free at 1-800-580-7247) at any time, 24 hours a day. By pressing #1, the automated phone system will forward the call directly to the emergency cell phone.
   
   
6. In the event of fatality or serious accident, always notify law enforcement.  Do not leave the scene of the accident until law enforcement arrives.  If you must leave, retain a responsible person at the scene.  Ensure that the victim and the surroundings are not disturbed until law enforcement has assumed authority.
   
   
7. MAKE NO STATEMENTS TO THE MEDIA. Refer all media inquiries (press, radio, television) to GSSWT’s Marketing and Communications department. If no members of the department are available, take a message and inform them that someone will return their call. Do not discuss the incident, place any blame or accept liability.
   
   
8. Keep record of all relevant conversations concerning the emergency.
   
   
9. Complete and submit a Group Incident Report form to the Crisis Team Leader within 72 hours of the incident.

An Issues Management Plan is available from GSSWT's Chief Communications Officer.
Questions? Please contact Stephanie Finleon Cortez, Chief Communications Officer (210-349-2404/800-580-7247 ext. 230).