The rank of Eagle requires a project demonstrating leadership and community service.
Eagle Scout projects are the final hurdle a Boy Scout must successfully navigate in order to earn the rank of Eagle. The primary requirement of an Eagle Scout project is that it demonstrate leadership ability while providing a service to a community institution like a church, school or fire department. Often, these projects are construction types and require detailed planning.
First Step
The first step in choosing an Eagle project is to ensure that the project meets the basic requirements outlined by the Boy Scouts of America. Providing a community service for a fire department is a common project. However, the specifics of the project must be approved. For example, fundraising to support a fire department is not allowed; raising funds for construction materials to build a flag pole for a fire department is allowed. When in doubt about whether a project meets the basic requirements, speak to your troop's Eagle Coordinator for guidance.
Build a Jogging Path
Building an outdoor jogging path for a fire department is a potential Eagle project.
Maintaining a high level of physical fitness among its firefighters is an important duty of a fire department. Many fire departments have an indoor gym for their on-duty fireman, but not enough room for an indoor running track. Depending on the location of a fire department, a practical Eagle Project could be building an outdoor jogging path for firefighters.
Build an Obstacle Course
Obstacle courses provide a lot of exercise in a small area.
When a jogging path is not a practical project because the surrounding area is too small, an alternative idea requiring less space is an obstacle course. An obstacle course can be confined to a small area outfitted with a wide variety of barriers that make exercise both strenuous and fun. Barriers for fire department training usually mimic the real-life physical hurdles firefighters face during emergencies.
Build Recycling/Hazardous Materials Drop-off Bins
Building recyling and hazardous waste bins is a beneficial Eagle Scout project.
Firefighters receive training in hazardous materials, and fire departments are located centrally within a community. As such, creating a program where the fire department works with the community in the proper disposal of hazardous waste, like old paint and petroleum products, would be very useful. Construction of drop-off bins for hazardous waste and/or recyclable materials would make a good Eagle project to augment the program.
Repair and Improve a Firehouse
Repair and renovation of community buildings are potential Eagle Scout projects.
In some respects, a firehouse is no different from the house you live in. The elements take a toll on their exteriors, which eventually have to be repaired. Look around your community and see what kind of shape your firehouse is in: Is the paint peeling? Are there shingles missing? Talk to the fire chief and ask him if there is some repair or improvement that the firehouse needs.
Tags: fire department, Eagle Scout, hazardous waste, basic requirements, community service
