In Scouting, safety is everyone’s responsibility. Whether we are camping in the bush, sailing on the bay, or running an activity night at the Den, it’s essential that all youth members, leaders, and helpers understand the language we use around safety and risk management.

Three terms come up often: hazard, incident, and near miss. They sound similar, but each has a very specific meaning. Understanding the difference helps us act quickly, report effectively, and keep our Scouting adventures safe, fun, and inclusive.

Hazard – A Potential Danger

A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm if it’s not controlled or removed. Hazards are usually present before something goes wrong.

Scouting examples of hazards:

• A tent peg sticking out in the middle of a walkway at camp.

• A slippery patch on the Den floor after mopping.

• A frayed climbing rope in the gear shed.

By identifying and reporting hazards early, we can act before they become problems. This might mean moving a tent peg, cleaning up a spill, or tagging faulty equipment out of service.

Key point: Spotting and reporting hazards is a proactive step to prevent injury or damage.

Incident – Something Has Happened

An incident is an unplanned event where harm has already occurred. This could involve an injury, damage to property, or disruption to the program.

Scouting examples of incidents:

• A Cub Scout trips over the tent peg and twists their ankle.

• A Venturer drops a camp stove, causing a small fire.

• A leader’s car window is broken during a Group activity.

Incidents must always be reported promptly. Reporting ensures:

• Injuries are treated quickly.

• Leaders can notify families if needed.

• Scout records and WHS obligations are met.

• Lessons can be learned to prevent repeat events.

Key point: An incident means the hazard has caused actual harm or disruption.

Near Miss – A Close Call

A near miss happens when something could have gone wrong, but didn’t – this time. It’s a close call where luck or quick reactions prevented harm.

Scouting examples of near misses:

• A Venturer Scout almost trips on the tent peg but regains balance.

• A Cub Scout runs past a cooking area but narrowly avoids knocking over a pot of boiling water.

• A leader slips on the wet floor but manages not to fall.

Near misses are important signals. They show us the hazard is real, even if no one got hurt yet. Reporting near misses gives leaders a chance to take action before an incident occurs.

Key point: Near misses are warnings – ignore them, and next time it could be an incident.

Why This Matters in Scouting

When we talk about hazards, incidents, and near misses, we’re not just using fancy words – we’re building a culture of safety.

• Hazards tell us what could go wrong.

• Near misses remind us how close we came to harm.

• Incidents prove the hazard has already caused damage.

By recognising and reporting all three, we make Scouting safer for everyone. This ensures youth members can focus on adventure, learning, and fun – while leaders meet their duty of care.

What You Should Do

• If you see a hazard: Remove it if safe, or report it immediately.

• If you experience a near miss: Tell a leader so steps can be taken.

• If you are involved in an incident: Ensure first aid or emergency response, then report it.

Scouts Queensland uses an online form for reporting  hazards incidents and near misses: All Incident Reporting | Scouts Queensland. This should also be reported to your Group Leader, Activity Leader, or directly to the Facilities & Risk team.

Takeaway Message

Scouting is about challenge and adventure – but it should never come at the cost of safety.
If you see a hazard, experience a near miss, or are involved in an incident, tell someone and report it straight away.

Together, we can ensure that Scouting continues to be a place where young people explore, grow, and thrive – safely.