“BE PREPARED”

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20915, 21 September 1939, Page 11

“BE PREPARED”

SCOUTS ORGANISE SERVICE IN EMERGENCY MORE ADULT OFFICERS NEEDED Boy Scouts in Hamilton are preparing to render all possible assistance in the present emergency. In fulfilment of their creed they will ‘ be prepared.” A comprehensive scheme was launched by the Boy Scouts' Association in New Zealand, at the beginning of the year to cope with a local, or national emergency. A scheme of internal district organisation was outlined whereby scouts in any area could be called together when their services were, required. Each district made its own plans. Jn Hamilton a test mobilisation held recently pioved highly successful. Scouts are being trained as fully as possible in subjects which should be of value to them and the nation in ail emergency. Instruction of this nature includes work in ambulance, missioning, pathfinding, camping, public health, fire fighting, signalling, cycling, coast watch, piloting and communications. Called to the Front Now that war has broken out many Scout officers of military age will be joining the colours. It has become necessary, therefore, that deputies should be appointed who could carry on the work of organising the scouts for emergency work. This applies equally to district and group organisation, and in Hamilton it will be necessary to secure the services of those willing to assist in this capacity.

Deputies will be made thoroughly conversant with the organisation in the district, of the emergency precaution scheme, and the general work of the seoirter for whom Ihe deputy is acting. Parents or committee members who are not likely to be called up for active service with the military forces, would make suitable deputies. The present national stress has made it essential, if the movement is to serve the King and Country efficiently, that ‘he; system of deputies should be established immediately.