Lifesaving and the Trail to Eagle
Lifesaving is Eagle-required as part of a choice group. Every Eagle Scout must earn Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving. Earning Lifesaving satisfies that requirement. If you also earn another badge from the same group, it counts as one of your 8 elective badges.
Choice group A: earn one of
- Emergency Preparedness
- Lifesaving
Lifesaving Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Lifesaving. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Before doing requirements 2 through 17, successfully complete the Scouting America swimmer test.
- 2
Explain the Safe Swim Defense plan.
- 3
Demonstrate reaching assists and throwing assists.
- 4
Demonstrate a swimming rescue.
- 5
Demonstrate CPR on a mannequin.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Lifesaving Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Lifesaving, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Lifesaving is usually earned summer camp or outdoor event. Summer camp and merit badge weekends are the most common places to finish it.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a demanding badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 5 Lifesaving requirements for you.
Lifesaving Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Lifesaving merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
Yes, as part of a choice group. To earn Eagle, a scout must earn Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving. Lifesaving satisfies that requirement, and any other badge from the group can count as one of the 8 electives.
How long does the Lifesaving merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Lifesaving in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Lifesaving merit badge?
Lifesaving is most often earned summer camp or outdoor event. Any registered merit badge counselor for Lifesaving can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Lifesaving merit badge have?
Lifesaving has 5 main requirements, for 5 items in total.
